Experiencing sexual assault is a harrowing ordeal, and navigating the aftermath requires compassionate support and expert legal guidance. In California, survivors of adult sexual assault have specific legal rights designed to protect and empower them. Understanding these rights and acting within designated time frames is crucial to ensuring justice is served.
Our experienced team of Los Angeles sexual assault attorneys is dedicated to representing survivors with dignity and respect. We provide the support needed to file claims, navigate the legal system, and pursue justice. With options to revive previously barred claims and a focus on achieving the best possible outcomes, our attorneys stand ready to help survivors with confidence and care.
Understanding Sexual Assault and Abuse
Sexual assault is defined as any non-consensual sexual act, ranging from unwanted touching to severe acts like rape. Sexual abuse encompasses both physical and non-physical forms of unwanted or coercive sexual behavior, including verbal harassment, intimidation, and psychological manipulation.
Perpetrators often use tactics such as grooming, gift-giving, isolation, and manipulation to gain control over survivors. Recognizing these patterns is key to reporting abuse and seeking justice.
Institutional Sexual Abuse
This occurs when authority figures exploit their positions to engage in non-consensual sexual activities within organizations like workplaces, schools, or religious institutions. The power imbalance in these settings can make it particularly difficult for survivors to come forward.
Awareness of these dynamics empowers survivors to take action and seek legal support to hold perpetrators accountable.
Reporting Sexual Assault in Los Angeles
If you have been sexually assaulted, reporting the crime is a critical step in seeking justice. Survivors are encouraged to:
- Contact Law Enforcement or the National Sexual Assault Hotline
- Reporting promptly helps preserve evidence and allows authorities to begin an investigation.
- Undergo a Forensic Exam
- A sexual assault forensic exam, ideally conducted within five days, collects crucial evidence such as DNA. This evidence can support both criminal and civil cases.
Although reporting may feel overwhelming, it is a vital step toward holding perpetrators accountable and preventing further abuse. Survivors can lean on trusted friends, family members, or professionals for support during this process.
Filing a Sexual Assault Claim
Filing a sexual assault claim involves several steps:
- Gather Evidence: Eyewitness testimony, forensic evidence, and accounts from other survivors can strengthen your case.
- Consult a Lawyer: Experienced sexual assault attorneys can guide you through the process and represent your interests in court.
- Patience and Persistence: The time it takes to resolve a claim varies based on case complexity, but skilled legal counsel can help streamline the process.
At Greenberg Gross LLP, we offer free and confidential consultations to discuss your case, ensuring that you feel supported and informed every step of the way.
California Law on Childhood Sexual Assault (AB 452)
As of January 1, 2024, there is no statute of limitations for filing lawsuits related to childhood sexual assault. Survivors can file claims at any time for assaults occurring on or after this date, regardless of their age or when the abuse was discovered.
Choosing the Right Sexual Assault Lawyer in Los Angeles
Selecting a sexual assault lawyer is one of the most important steps in pursuing justice. Here’s what to look for:
- Experience and Expertise
- Choose a lawyer with a strong track record in sexual assault cases and a deep understanding of California’s legal landscape.
- Compassion and Communication
- A supportive and empathetic attorney ensures survivors feel comfortable throughout the process.
- Contingency-Fee Basis
- Many firms, including Greenberg Gross LLP, operate on a contingency basis, meaning clients pay their lawyers nothing unless they win compensation.
Choosing the right lawyer can make a significant difference in achieving a favorable outcome and ensuring survivors feel supported.
Contact Greenberg Gross LLP Today
If you’re a survivor of sexual assault, Greenberg Gross LLP is here to help. Our experienced Los Angeles sexual assault attorneys provide compassionate legal representation to ensure you receive the justice and support you deserve.
We offer free consultations to discuss your case confidentially and explore your legal options. Let us stand by your side and fight for your rights as you take the first step toward healing and justice.
Contact Greenberg Gross LLP today to begin your journey toward recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between sexual assault and sexual abuse?
Sexual assault typically refers to any non-consensual sexual act, while sexual abuse often involves repeated patterns of such behavior, particularly against minors. Both are serious crimes with significant legal consequences.
How can I report a sexual assault in Los Angeles?
Report the crime to the police or contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
How do I choose the right sexual assault lawyer?
Select a lawyer with a proven track record, strong communication skills, and a compassionate approach. Contingency-fee-based representation ensures survivors can focus on their cases without financial stress.
What should I expect during a free consultation?
During a free consultation, you can discuss your case confidentially with an experienced attorney, learn about your legal options, and develop a tailored strategy to pursue justice.