Sexual abuse is a pervasive issue that leaves lasting physical, emotional, and psychological effects on survivors. In California, adult survivors of sexual abuse have legal pathways to demand justice, hold perpetrators accountable, and seek compensation for their suffering. Greenberg Gross LLP is committed to protecting victims of sexual abuse through experienced legal representation and compassionate support. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how California sexual abuse lawyers can help adult survivors of sexual assault and abuse seek justice and healing.
Understanding Sexual Abuse and Assault in California
Sexual abuse encompasses a wide range of harmful behaviors, including physical contact, lewd acts, and other acts of a sexual nature perpetrated without consent. In California, the law recognizes the serious harm caused by such offenses, offering survivors the ability to seek legal recourse through the civil justice system. Unlike the criminal justice system, which focuses on punishing offenders, the civil system allows survivors to seek financial compensation and other remedies for the harm they’ve endured.
Common Types of Sexual Abuse
- Sexual harassment: Unwanted sexual advances or conduct in the workplace or other settings.
- Sexual violence: Includes physical assault, rape, or other acts involving force or coercion.
- Child molestation: Although this article focuses on adult survivors, childhood sexual abuse often continues to affect survivors into adulthood.
- Lewd acts: Engaging in sexually explicit actions without the other party’s consent.
Legal Protections for Survivors of Sexual Abuse in California
California law provides robust protections for survivors of sexual abuse. The statute of limitations is a critical factor in determining a survivor’s ability to file a claim. For adult survivors, the timeline to pursue a civil lawsuit depends on when the abuse occurred and when the survivor discovered the harm caused by it.
Recent Legislative Updates:
- California’s AB 452 (2023) eliminates the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse claims for assaults occurring on or after January 1, 2024. Survivors of older cases should consult California sexual abuse attorneys to understand their rights under existing statutes.
Filing a Civil Lawsuit for Childhood Sexual Abuse
For many survivors, filing a civil suit is an important step toward justice. A civil lawsuit enables survivors to seek financial compensation for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. Compensation can help address the long-term effects of abuse, from psychological injuries to physical injuries.
Key Steps in Filing a Civil Claim
- Seek Medical Treatment: Documentation of medical expenses and injuries strengthens the case.
- Consult Experienced Attorneys: Legal professionals with expertise in sex abuse cases provide guidance and support throughout the process.
- Gather Evidence: This may include police reports, witness statements, and personal accounts.
- File a Claim: Working with a law firm ensures deadlines and legal standards are met.
How Our California Sex Abuse Attorneys Support Survivors
Greenberg Gross LLP takes a survivor-centered approach to sexual abuse cases, combining legal expertise with empathy and discretion. The firm’s experienced attorneys are dedicated to holding perpetrators and institutions accountable, seeking justice, and ensuring survivors can move forward with their lives.
Services Provided
- Representation for sexual assault and sexual abuse survivors and in California.
- Guidance on navigating both criminal court and the civil justice system.
- Help in filing claims for financial compensation, including for emotional damage and lost wages.
- Advocacy in cases of childhood sexual abuse, sexual violence, and other heinous offenses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What types of damages can survivors seek in a civil sexual abuse lawsuit?
Survivors can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, emotional effects, and psychological injuries resulting from the abuse.
What if the abuse occurred many years ago?
The timeline for filing a claim depends on the statute of limitations. Recent changes in California law allow the survivors of sexual abuse to pursue claims even if the abuse occurred years ago. Contact an experienced sexual assault lawyer to discuss your options and the specific deadlines that apply to your case.
How do California sexual abuse lawyers help survivors?
They provide legal representation, manage all aspects of the legal process, and support survivors in demanding justice, seeking restitution, and holding perpetrators accountable.
Can survivors of workplace sexual harassment file a claim?
Yes. Sexual harassment victims in California can file sexual abuse claims for damages and hold employers or other institutions accountable for failing to prevent or address the abuse.
What if the perpetrator cannot pay compensation?
Compensation may also be sought from institutions or entities that enabled the abuse. Speak with California sexual abuse attorneys to explore all potential avenues.
Begin Your Path Toward Justice
Greenberg Gross LLP is committed to protecting both childhood and adult sexual abuse survivors and fighting for justice. If you or a loved one has been sexually assaulted, do not hesitate to reach out. Our legal team is ready to provide compassionate support and experienced representation. Contact us today to demand justice and reclaim your life.