SAN DIEGO -- A local musician brutally attacked after she hugged her girlfriend is hoping a civil suit will lead to justice.

"This attack has turned my life upside down. This is the only way to expose the hate," said Rhythm Turner.

In May 2009, Turner's band had just wrapped up a gig at Canes Bar & Grill when she hugged her girlfriend outside. Turner said a man asked if they were lesbians and asked them to kiss. After she said she told him to go away, he slapped her and punched her twice.

"It felt like my face caved in. The force he used was very intense," said Turner.

Prosecutors said there was not enough evidence to prove the attack was substantially motivated by her sexuality.

Vincen Williams, 22, pleaded guilty to assault and served less than a year in jail.

Turner, who had reconstructive surgery, now splits her time between Seattle and San Diego.

"I felt like my rights were violated; I felt frustrated," said Turner.

Turner's frustration has fueled a $1.5 million lawsuit alleging a violation of her civil rights.

Dan Gilleon, Turner's attorney, believes it's a clear case of hate, and the burden of proof in a civil case is less than in a criminal case.

"It wasn't until the obtained confirmation that she was a homosexual did the attack occur," said Gilleon.

"I would like him to admit that this was a hate-motivated crime," said Turner.

Turner said the attack left her with anxiety issues, nightmares and medical bills.

Still, she told 10News her lawsuit is less about the money and more about exposing hate.

"There's still justice that needs to happen," Turner said.

10News' attempts to reach Williams and his attorney were unsuccessful.