Sexual misconduct or abuse committed against a child is one of the most horrific acts. It is an extremely sensitive and complicated subject and legal matter. The team at The Pride Law Firm recognizes survivors’ incredible courage necessary to come forward and share their stories. Our team is committed to providing a safe space for you to share your experience. We will ensure that your matter is handled with the respect and dignity you deserve.
Even if you experienced sexual abuse many years ago, it may still be possible to hold responsible parties accountable. Every survivor deserves to have their story heard. If you or someone you love has suffered childhood sexual abuse, contact The Pride Law Firm online or by calling (619) 516-8166. Our caring and compassionate associates can help you learn more about what legal options are available to you.
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Can You File a Molestation Lawsuit Years Later?
Under recent changes to the statute of limitations in California, it is now possible for survivors who experienced childhood sexual abuse to file a sexual misconduct lawsuit years after the actual incident occurred. Survivors of childhood sexual abuse now have the opportunity to pursue the justice they are entitled to.
Changes to California laws have modified the statute of limitations pertaining to childhood sexual assault survivors. California law now allows for adults to bring lawsuits for sexual abuse that occurred when they were under the age of 18. A survivor who may have suffered childhood sexual abuse can initiate a lawsuit until the later date of:
- when they turn 40 years old, or
- within 5 years of discovering that psychological injury or illness occurring after their 18th birthday was caused by the sexual abuse or assault.
Childhood trauma or childhood sexual abuse has the potential to cause long-term harm. Some effects may include depression, anxiety, mental health problems, substance abuse, or a lack of self-worth. This law is especially important because children or young adults are often reluctant to report the abuse they are experiencing. There are several reasons for this including feelings of guilt, embarrassment, or not knowing that they are being abused until much later.
How Can a Sexual Misconduct Attorney Help Me?
Lawsuits for sexual misconduct and sexual abuse can be emotionally charged and incredibly complicated. Childhood sexual assault cases require extra care, time, and consideration. Not every lawyer will be equipped to handle sexual misconduct cases.
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Filing a lawsuit against the person or parties that harmed you may be both emotionally and financially draining. A sexual misconduct lawyer can help you pursue a claim for damages to help you recover your various losses and expenses associated with the incident.
These damages may include compensation for:
- Medical bills: This may include any medical bills you have accrued including costs related to treatment and counseling.
- Pain and suffering: This may include compensation for physical and emotional distress caused by the assault or reimbursement for psychological trauma you have experienced.
- Punitive damages: In some cases, survivors may seek punitive damages in addition to compensatory damages. Punitive damages are intended to punish the perpetrator for their misconduct and to deter others from engaging in similar behavior. These damages are typically awarded when the defendant’s actions are considered particularly malicious or intentional.
Initiating legal proceedings as an adult survivor of childhood sexualabuse may raise feelings of guilt, shame, and anger. The lawyers at The Pride Law Firm know that this may be a very difficult process and are here to help you by guiding you through the complicated legal process associated with bringing legal action.
Your attorney will handle important court filings, meet court deadlines, and negotiate with opposing counsel. When you are ready, a sexual misconduct attorney can help guide you through the legal process.
online(619) 516-8166
How Long After Being Sexually Assaulted Can You File a Lawsuit?
Under normal circumstances, the statute of limitations will determine when you are legally allowed to pursue a case. Statutes of limitations are laws that set a specific time frame within which a legal action must be initiated. After that timeframe has expired, you are usually barred from filing legal action.
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For some, the statute of limitations has prevented them from pursuing legal action against the person who abused them when they were a child or a young adult. Childhood victims of sexual assault now have until their 40th birthday, or within 5 years of the discovery of the abuse, to file a civil lawsuit. The law also allows for a five-year window for the revival of certain claims that would have been barred by the statute of limitations.
Sexual assault and abuse claims, otherwise barred by the statute of limitations, can be revived and officially be eligible to be brought in civil court. As a result of this legal change, California plaintiffs will now have a new window of opportunity to secure justice on their own terms.
Contact an Experienced Sexual Misconduct Lawyer
Sexual assault and sexual misconduct cases are already emotionally charged matters. Revisiting such a traumatic incident many years after it occurred can be even more complicated. Our attorneys know that it is important to practice self-care and recognize that your feelings as a survivor are valid.
Jessica Pride and her team have extensive experience in handling sexual misconduct cases. Our experience sets us apart and allows us to provide the highest quality of service. Contact The Pride Law Firm online or by calling us at (619) 516-8166 for your confidential legal consultation. Our entire team is standing by to handle your case with the utmost compassion to ensure that you receive the care you deserve and the justice you are entitled to under the law.
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