Dr. Mark Mulholland Sexual Abuse Lawsuits

Across Richland, Washington, women who once trusted Dr. Mark Mulholland, a former OB/GYN at Kadlec Clinic, are now coming forward with disturbing stories. What should have been safe, professional medical visits allegedly became experiences of humiliation, violation, and abuse carried out under the guise of treatment.

Former patients describe invasive pelvic exams without consent, breast exams conducted without gloves, and inappropriate comments about their appearance. Some recall being forced into painful procedures without explanation, while others remember being touched unnecessarily or spoken to in ways that were sexual rather than clinical.

One survivor, attending a post-surgical checkup, said Mulholland inserted his entire hand into her vagina without warning. When she cried out in pain, he allegedly laughed and told her he would “only use two fingers” from then on. Another woman, referred for care related to an ovarian cyst, reported that Mulholland ignored her medical history and insisted she must be pregnant despite clear evidence to the contrary.

Many of these women were young and visiting an OB-GYN for the first time. They trusted that what they endured was part of standard care. Only later did they realize that what they experienced was not acceptable medical practices, but acts that made them feel exploited by a physician in a position of power.

For survivors, speaking out is an act of courage. For institutions like Kadlec Clinic, these accounts raise urgent questions about oversight, reporting, and accountability.

If you or someone you love experienced sexual abuse in a medical setting, LitigationConnect is here to provide clarity and support. Call (833) 552-7274 or contact us online for a confidential consultation.

Key Takeaways About the Allegations Against Dr. Mulholland

Multiple survivors have raised allegations of sexual abuse against former Kadlec Clinic OB/GYN Dr. Mark Mulholland.
Reported misconduct includes invasive pelvic exams, procedures without gloves, and inappropriate sexual remarks.
Medical abuse survivors may pursue civil sexual abuse lawsuits to seek compensation and hold negligent institutions accountable.
Washington law provides extended filing deadlines for childhood sexual abuse claims, and adults who later connect the abuse to their harm, though laws vary nationwide.
LitigationConnect offers confidential guidance for survivors across the United States. Call (833) 552-7274 or contact us online to learn more.

Why You Might Consider a Civil Sexual Abuse Lawsuit

The main purpose of most civil lawsuits is to recover compensation for the harm suffered due to another person’s negligent or intentional actions. However, for many survivors, civil litigation is not just about money. It is about fighting for justice, holding abusers accountable, and forcing institutions that allowed the abuse to change and protect future patients.

Unlike criminal cases, which focus on punishment, civil lawsuits are survivor-driven. They allow individuals to:

Tell their story in a legal forum
Demand accountability from both abusers and negligent institutions
Seek compensation for their personal medical bills, therapy, and emotional suffering
Push for reforms that can help protect others

Every civil case sends a message: abuse will not be ignored, and institutions cannot turn a blind eye to protect their reputations and bottom lines.

Civil vs. Criminal Cases: Understanding the Difference

Abuse survivors often ask about the difference between the abuser facing criminal charges and the survivor filing a civil lawsuit:

The state brings criminal prosecution. The goal is punishment through fines, imprisonment, or other penalties. In criminal court, the prosecutor must prove the defendant’s guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt.”
Plaintiffs (injured survivors) bring civil lawsuits. The goal is to hold the abuser and any facility that permitted the abuse accountable and to seek compensation for the harm inflicted. The standard of proof is easier: the injured plaintiff must prove that the abuse occurred by a “preponderance of the evidence,” meaning it’s more likely than not that they suffered abuse and the defendants were responsible.

Even if criminal prosecutors decline to pursue charges, or if a criminal jury does not convict, survivors may still succeed in civil court. This dual system ensures that survivors have multiple paths to justice.

Washington Law and Survivors’ Rights That Apply to Claims Against Dr. Mulholland

Statutes of Limitations

In Washington, the law has recently been changed in recognition that survivors may not realize the issues they are facing are related to the abuse they endured. Also, some abuse survivors simply need some time before they are ready to step forward. Depending on how old you were when you endured sexual abuse, the law provides filing deadlines you must meet.

Childhood sexual abuse claims: Survivors may file a lawsuit up to three years after their 18th birthday or within three years of discovering that the abuse caused lasting harm (RCW 4.16.340).
Adult survivors: Adult sexual assault claims generally must be filed within three years of the abuse or three years from the time the survivor realizes, or should have realized, that the abuse has caused their harm, whichever is later (RCW 4.16.080).

Some exceptions to these deadlines may apply, so it’s crucial to consult with an experienced sexual abuse lawyer quickly to understand your personal filing deadlines.

What is Institutional Accountability? Holding Kadlec Clinic Responsible

Civil lawsuits can extend beyond individual perpetrators. Hospitals, clinics, and healthcare systems may also face liability if they failed to protect patients.

In some circumstances, medical institutions such as clinics and hospitals may be held accountable if they:

Ignored prior complaints about medical professional misconduct
Did not enforce appropriate supervision policies
Allowed a physician to continue treating patients despite red flags
Failed to provide safe reporting mechanisms for patients

By pursuing claims against institutions like Kadlec Clinic, survivors not only seek justice for themselves but also fight to drive systemic change in healthcare settings and protect other unsuspecting patients from enduring abuse.

What Damages are Available in Civil Sexual Abuse Lawsuits?

Medical abuse survivors may be eligible to receive various forms of compensation, including:

Medical expenses related to the abuse or resulting injuries
Therapy and counseling costs to support recovery
Lost wages or diminished earning capacity if the abuse led to missed work or the inability to pursue employment
Pain and suffering, including PTSD, depression, and anxiety
Punitive damages may be awarded in cases of egregious misconduct to punish the wrongdoers and set an example for others

The LitigationConnect team’s goal is to recover these damages, which will provide survivors with resources to rebuild their lives while sending a powerful message of accountability to medical facilities and professionals nationwide.

Can You Protect Survivor’s Privacy and Confidentiality?

Concerns about privacy often prevent survivors from speaking out. Civil courts recognize this reality. Many jurisdictions allow survivors to file under pseudonyms such as “Jane Doe” or “John Doe.” Judges may also issue protective orders limiting public access to sensitive details.

At LitigationConnect, you can rest assured that all consultations are confidential, and you are under no obligation to proceed until you are ready. Our clients always remain in control of their story and make all decisions throughout the legal process.

What Evidence is Needed in Civil Litigation?

Civil sexual abuse cases may rely on a wide range of evidence. Our team of legal professionals can help you gather important information, such as:

Medical records and treatment notes
Testimony from other patients or staff
Prior complaints or disciplinary records
Digital communications or messages
Expert testimony explaining breaches of medical standards

The evidence-gathering process generally unfolds in the following stages:

Confidential consultation with a legal professional at LitigationConnect
Building the basis for filing the complaint in civil court
Discovery, including depositions and evidence gathering
Negotiations or trial, depending on case strategy

Survivors do not need to manage this process without legal assistance. Our attorneys handle investigations and filings while keeping our clients informed and supported throughout the process.

Sexual Abuse in Medical Settings is a National Problem

Unfortunately, the allegations against Dr. Mulholland are not unique. More details are released every year about the extent of medical sexual abuse throughout the country, including:

Research from JAMA Internal Medicine found that over 1,000 U.S. physicians faced disciplinary action for sexual misconduct in a decade.
The U.S. Department of Justice and other studies highlight that sexual violence is widely underreported, often due to shame, fear, or mistrust of institutions.
In Washington, the Department of Health regularly disciplines healthcare providers for misconduct, underscoring the need for strong oversight.

These statistics show that systemic change is needed nationwide, not just in Richland, WA. Medical abuse survivors everywhere deserve safety in medical settings and accountability when that trust is broken.

FAQs: Dr. Mark Mulholland Sexual Abuse Lawsuits

Will I need to testify in court to pursue a civil claim?

Not always. Many cases resolve through out-of-court settlement. If testimony is needed, our attorneys will prepare you carefully and provide support throughout the process.

Can I still file a lawsuit if the abuse happened years ago?

Possibly. Washington and many other states provide extended statutes of limitations, especially for childhood sexual abuse. Our attorneys can listen to your story and explain your timeline.

What if multiple survivors file against the same doctor?

Courts may consolidate cases for efficiency, but each survivor’s experience and losses are considered individually.

Is my case weakened if criminal charges are not filed?

No. Civil cases are separate from criminal proceedings and have a lower burden of proof. Survivors may succeed in civil court even without criminal charges being brought against the abuser.

How much does it cost to work with LitigationConnect?

Consultations are free and confidential. Also, the LitigationConnect team works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you would not pay attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.

When You are Ready, Trust the LitigationConnect Team to Support You

These initial allegations against Dr. Mark Mulholland represent more than isolated misconduct. They highlight systemic issues in medical oversight and the urgent need for survivor-centered accountability. If you are among the many people who were allegedly abused by Dr. Mulholland, you may be eligible to bring a civil claim for the injuries you endured.

LitigationConnect is committed to providing survivors with clarity, resources, and legal guidance. By pursuing a civil lawsuit, you can demand justice for yourself while helping to prevent future harm to others.

For personalized advice regarding your medical sexual abuse case, call (833) 552-7274 or contact us online for a free and confidential consultation.