California Sex Abuse Attorneys | Sexual Assault Lawyers

California Sexual Assault Lawyers

No experience in life can match the trauma of sexual assault or abuse. At Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, we are passionate about bringing sexual predators to justice. Our California sex abuse lawyers provide aggressive and compassionate representation to victims and their families.

If you were sexually abused, you may be entitled to compensation for the physical and emotional harm you suffered. Since the passage of Assembly Bill 218, child sex abuse victims may have the right to pursue damages from their abusers even if the abuse happened many decades ago.

Our legal team represents victims of child molestation, clergy sex abuse, and abuse of vulnerable adults such as nursing home residents. Often, it is possible to pursue damages not only from the abuser but also from a complicit or negligent organization such as a school, church, or long-term care facility.

To discuss your case with a member of our team, call 1-800-GO-HARRIS. You won’t have to pay anything for the consultation, and we won’t charge any attorneys’ fees unless we win. You can reach us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Damages in California Sex Abuse Lawsuits

The most devastating consequences of sexual assault tend to be intangible. The depression, shame, and mental anguish can last a lifetime. Although no amount of money can undo the trauma you have experienced, it may be possible to collect non-economic damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment in life.

You can also seek compensation for any economic damages you suffered as a result of the sexual assault or abuse. Economic damages may include medical bills, lost wages, and any other objectively verifiable costs arising from the tort.

Because sexual assault is an egregious offense committed with intent to harm, it is often possible to collect punitive damages in addition to economic and non-economic damages. Punitive damages are not recoverable against a government entity in California, but they might be awarded against a private citizen, business, or an organization such as a church, school, or nursing home.

How Can a Sexual Assault Lawyer Help with My Case?

It’s never easy to relive past traumas, which is why many victims of sexual assault choose not to take legal action. But shedding light on the mistreatment you suffered may help with the healing process. It could also save other people from the same fate.

Our California sexual assault lawyers can handle the logistics of your case and help you navigate the legal system. Below are a few benefits of hiring one of our experienced litigators for representation:

• Gathering All Available Evidence: Proving sexual assault or abuse can be difficult if the incident was not officially documented; however, courts in California understand that victims often choose not to report their abusers due to shame, depression, or fear. Therefore, even if the incident was not reported to authorities, it may still be possible to obtain damages from the perpetrator and/or the liable organization. Our attorneys know the kinds of evidence needed to win these cases. Even if the sexual abuse happened many decades ago, we may be able to find sufficient documentation to meet the preponderance of the evidence standard and win your civil case.
• Calculating Your Damages: Our California sex abuse attorneys can help you calculate a fair settlement amount based on the relevant statutes, case law, and the facts of your claim.

• Handling Settlement Negotiations: If the opposing party tries to take a hardline during the settlement negotiations, you can count on our legal team to provide aggressive representation.

• Litigating Your Case If Necessary: We are not afraid to file a lawsuit and proceed to litigation if the defendant refuses to pay a fair settlement.

Time Limits for Filing Sex Abuse Lawsuits in California

There are strict time limits within which a sex abuse lawsuit must be filed in California. Once the deadline that applies to your case passes, you will lose your right to pursue damages. As of January 2020, victims of child sex abuse will have a three-year window within which to bring a civil lawsuit.

There are many factors that could impact the amount of time you have to bring a sexual abuse lawsuit. The best way to find out the time limit that applies to your particular case is to speak with a sex assault attorney in California.

Call 1-800-GO-HARRIS to Discuss Your Case with a Sex Abuse Lawyer in California

Our attorneys are ready to help you fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. We always provide aggressive representation to our clients, but we are especially passionate about holding sexual predators accountable for their egregious crimes.

You can reach us anytime, day or night, by calling 1-800-GO-HARRIS or sending a message on our Contact Page. There’s no cost for the initial consultation, and we will come to you if you are unable to come to us.