Los Angeles Sexual Abuse Attorney

Sexual abuse is incredibly damaging. Survivors often suffer severe, long-lasting trauma that affects their relationships, their careers, and every aspect of daily life. The psychological and emotional wounds can linger well beyond the initial incident—sometimes for the rest of a person’s life.

Sexual abuse devastates people of all ages and backgrounds, happening in any environment (the home, workplace, school, healthcare settings, public spaces, or even while incarcerated). There are many types of sexual abuse, all of which cause lasting personal injury.

Tragically, many victims face the consequences of these attacks alone. Victims in California need the support of the best sexual abuse lawyers in Los Angeles to navigate this harrowing experience and seek justice.

At Adamson Ahdoot LLP, our Los Angeles sexual abuse attorneys fight for victims. We want justice for all our clients. Our lawyers are compassionate; they understand sexual assault’s impact; they’re here for the victims.

We can help you understand your rights and legal options, whether you’re a survivor or a parent whose child dealt with abuse. With our experience and commitment, we will stand by you and work for the closure you deserve.

Adamson Ahdoot LLP’s Los Angeles Sexual Abuse Attorneys Will Help You Seek Justice

If you or someone you know suffered sexual abuse, we have experienced sexual abuse attorneys ready to help you get proper justice and compensation. With over 100 years of combined legal experience, the professionals at Adamson Ahdoot are committed to helping you through this hard time and helping you through this difficult time and providing the financial and emotional support you need to move forward.

We understand sexual abuse cases are incredibly personal and sensitive. We aid each client with empathy, compassion, and discretion. Our lawyers will listen to you, explain your legal choices, and work to hold the responsible parties accountable. Whether you were harmed by an individual or by an organization that failed to protect you, we have the skills and resources to fight for the maximum compensation allowed by law.

We’re here to support you and use our legal knowledge to help you find justice and begin the healing process. 

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California AB 2777 and Sexual Abuse Survivors

One of the most significant legal developments for survivors of sexual abuse in California is Assembly Bill 2777 (AB 2777), also known as the Sexual Abuse and Cover-Up Accountability Act. Signed into law in 2022 and effective as of January 1, 2023, AB 2777 has opened new doors for survivors who previously had no legal recourse because the statute of limitations on their cases had expired.

The traumatic nature of sexual abuse often has a chilling effect on coming forward. Many survivors need years—sometimes decades—to process what happened before they are ready to take legal action. In the past, this delay allowed perpetrators and the organizations that shielded them to simply run out the clock on these claims. AB 2777 was passed to address that injustice.

What Does AB 2777 Change?

AB 2777 revives certain civil claims for sexual assault that previously expired under California’s statute of limitations. Under the prior law, adult survivors of sexual abuse generally had 10 years from the date of the last act, or three years from the date they discovered or reasonably should have discovered that they suffered an injury resulting from sexual abuse.

Here are the key provisions that matter most to survivors right now:

• Extended filing deadline: Survivors whose sexual abuse occurred on or after January 1, 2009, now have until December 31, 2026, to file a civil lawsuit—even if the statute of limitations had already expired.
• Revival of time-barred claims: The law reopens sexual assault cases that were previously dismissed solely because the statute of limitations had run out, regardless of when the assault took place.
• Cover-up accountability: AB 2777 allows legal action against entities involved in a “cover-up” of sexual assault. The law defines a cover-up as a coordinated effort to conceal evidence of sexual abuse, prevent information from being disclosed publicly, or use nondisclosure or confidentiality agreements to silence survivors.
• Broad scope: Claims can be filed against both individuals and private organizations. However, public entities and government agencies are generally exempt under this provision.
• No criminal conviction required: A civil action can proceed even if there was no criminal prosecution or conviction related to the sexual assault. The standard of proof in a civil case differs from a criminal case, and AB 2777 recognizes that survivors can seek civil damages regardless of any criminal outcome.
• Related claims included: Claims such as wrongful termination or sexual harassment arising from the same incident of sexual assault may be included in the lawsuit, recognizing the comprehensive impact sexual abuse has on every area of a survivor’s life.

Where AB 2777 Does Not Apply

While AB 2777 is a powerful tool for survivors, it does have important limitations. The law does not revive claims that have already been litigated to a final judgment before January 1, 2023, or claims that were resolved through a written settlement agreement signed before that date. The focus of AB 2777 is on giving a first chance at justice to those whose opportunity was previously denied by the passage of time.

📌 Time Is Running Out—Act Before December 31, 2026: The extended filing window under AB 2777 closes at the end of 2026. If your case falls within this law’s provisions, it is critical to take action soon. Our experienced team at Adamson Ahdoot can evaluate your eligibility, help you understand your options, and guide you through every step of the process.

Who Can Be Legally Responsible in a California Sexual Abuse Claim?

As with any civil claim, the key starting point is determining liability—identifying who is legally responsible for covering your injuries and damages. While every case depends on its unique circumstances, sexual abuse claims can involve a wide range of potentially liable parties:

• The perpetrator: The individual who committed the sexual abuse is the primary party responsible. Under California law, they can face both criminal charges and civil liability for their actions.
• Facilities and institutions: If a school, healthcare facility, organization, or other institution knew or should have known about the abuse and failed to take appropriate action to prevent or address it, that institution may be held liable. This includes negligence in hiring, training, or supervision.
• Staff members: Individual staff members within an institution who were aware of the abuse or who engaged in abusive behavior may be personally liable for their actions.
• Employers and management: Employers or management teams can be held responsible if they were aware of the abuse or should have been but failed to take corrective action. This can include inadequate investigation of complaints or failure to protect individuals from harm.
• Third parties: Individuals or entities not directly employed by the institution but who had access to victims and participated in the abuse may also be held legally responsible.

Determining liability is the critical first step in any sexual abuse civil claim. In many cases, one or more parties may share responsibility. Our attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation to identify every liable party and build the strongest possible case on your behalf.

Damages and Sexual Abuse Claims

Filing a sexual abuse lawsuit takes enormous courage. Understanding what compensation may be avaiFiling a sexual abuse lawsuit takes enormous courage. Understanding what compensation may be available can help you make an informed decision about pursuing your claim. In legal terms, the financial support you may be entitled to is known as “damages,” and can include:

• Medical expenses and costs related to mental health services, including therapy and counseling
• Lost wages or diminished earning potential
• Damages for pain and suffering
• Compensation for emotional distress
• Loss of companionship or enjoyment of life
• Punitive damages, in certain cases, which are designed to further punish the wrongdoer and anyone else involved for their negligence

Every case is different, and several factors can influence the amount of a settlement or award:

• Severity: More severe cases generally result in higher compensation.
• Impact: You will need to demonstrate how the abuse affected your physical, emotional, and financial well-being, such as ongoing pain and suffering or a diminished ability to earn income.
• Timing: Settlements may increase for incidents that happened years ago.
• Age: Younger victims often receive higher settlements.
• Location: Outcomes can vary based on jurisdiction and local sexual abuse laws.
• Abuser’s ability to pay: The financial resources of the responsible parties can play a role in the outcome.
• Evidence: Presenting solid proof can lead to stronger results.

Taking legal action gives you the chance to secure the justice and financial support you deserve for the trauma you’ve suffered. Our team of experienced sexual abuse lawyers is here to help you fight for recovery.

Sexual Assault in California

In California, sexual assault can result in either misdemeanor or felony charges. Misdemeanor offenses may include intentionally fondling a stranger’s breasts without consent or groping someone’s buttocks without first obtaining permission.

These non-restraint offenses carry a punishment of six months in county jail and a fine of up to $2,000, which can increase to $3,000 if the defendant was the survivor’s employer.

Felony sexual assault charges have more severe penalties.

Examples include holding someone down against their will and performing acts on them, or convincing a mentally ill individual to perform sexually. A male doctor who falsely tells a female patient that he must touch her for sexual arousal or gratification could also face felony charges.

Felony sexual assault can result in 2-4 years of imprisonment and fines up to $10,000.

The important difference is that misdemeanor sexual assault does not involve unlawful restraint, while felony charges are for more egregious acts of sexual violence and exploitation. Regardless of the charge, California takes sexual assault crimes very seriously and imposes strict penalties to hold offenders accountable.

Sexual Misconduct vs. Sexual Assault

Sexual misconduct refers to inappropriate sexual behavior that may not necessarily violate criminal laws. It may describe a consensual relationship between coworkers, which could violate company policies but not the law.

California considers sexual assault a criminal act.

Sexual assault includes many non-consensual sexual acts, including:

• Forced oral copulation
• Penetration with an object
• Sodomy
• Rape
• Sexual battery

The California court system handles these sexual assault charges differently. If you need detailed information about the state’s sexual assault laws and your legal options, talk to the sexual assault attorneys at Adamson Ahdoot in Los Angeles.

California’s Statute of Limitations for Sexual Abuse Claims

The statute of limitations for sexual abuse claims in Los Angeles varies depending on the victim’s age. Speak with a knowledgeable sexual assault lawyer in Los Angeles about these deadlines.

For adult victims over the age of 18, the general time limits to file a lawsuit are:

• Ten years from the sexual act or assault by the defendant, or
• Within three years of discovering signs of sexual assault
• These statutes of limitations began on January 1, 2019

Important: Under AB 2777, survivors whose abuse occurred on or after January 1, 2009, now have an extended deadline of December 31, 2026, to file a civil claim, even if the statute of limitations has already expired. This is a limited-time window—don’t wait to explore your options.

For child victims of sexual abuse, the time limits are:

• Survivors may file until their 40th birthday, or
• Within five years after the abuse discovery
• There is also a three-year window to revive any sexual abuse claims barred by the old statute of limitations. This law went into effect on January 1, 2020.

If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse, consult an experienced sexual assault attorney in Los Angeles who can evaluate your case and help you file in time.an experienced sexual assault attorney in Los Angeles who can evaluate your case and help you file in time.

Sexual Abuse Statistics: Facts and Trends

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals the prevalence of sexual violence in our country.

Over 50% of women and almost one in three men have experienced sexual violence. One in four women and around one in 26 men have faced completed or attempted rape. Approximately one in nine men were forced to penetrate someone during their lifetime. Additionally, one in three women and around one in nine men have experienced harassment in public places.

The CDC also states that sexual abuse often starts at a young age. Over 80% of women experienced rape before turning 25 years old, with nearly half experiencing it before the age of 18. For men, almost 80% were forced to penetrate someone before age 25, and 40% found themselves in that situation as minors.

Certain communities face even higher rates of sexual abuse. Older data indicate that around 43% of lesbians and bisexual women, as well as 30% of gay and bisexual men, have survived sexual assaults.

About 34% of Native American and Alaskan Native women have survived completed or attempted rape. Additionally, women with disabilities are twice as likely to face a sexual assault compared to able-bodied women.

These statistics reveal a sincere need for more efforts to stop sexual violence in our society. Comprehensive prevention, education, and support services are necessary to protect all people from these terrible crimes.

Signs of Sexual Abuse

Most survivors don’t reach out for help on their own. According to the Department of Justice, two-thirds of sexual assault cases go unreported. Learning to recognize common signs of sexual trauma can empower you to help someone you know.

Here are five common signs of sexual abuse:

• Depression: Prolonged sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest in once-enjoyed activities can indicate the need for professional intervention. Sexual trauma often triggers depression through loss of bodily autonomy and self-worth.
• Anxiety: Survivors often experience fear that another attack is imminent. Watch for signs like agoraphobia, panic attacks, or poor concentration.
• Anger: Persistent, unexplained anger could be a reaction to past or ongoing trauma. Unaddressed anger can isolate the survivor and stall their recovery.
• Self-harm: Signs of self-harm, substance abuse, or risky behavior are indications that something is deeply wrong and professional help is needed.
• Social problems: Sudden changes in relationships, an inability to form intimate bonds, or an unfounded lack of trust in others may signal past or present sexual trauma.

By recognizing these warning signs, you could make all the difference in helping a survivor of sexual abuse get the support they need.

Sexual Abuse Lawyers Advocate for Survivors

When someone in Los Angeles experiences sexual abuse, they often face a complex emotional and legal path. This is where sexual abuse lawyers can serve as compassionate advocates for survivors.

Confidential Consultation

A confidential consultation is often the first step, where our experienced lawyers listen to your story, explain your legal options, and address any questions you may have. This initial meeting lays the necessary foundation of trust and understanding that you need when coming forward about sexual abuse.

This act takes immense courage. Our lawyers provide a safe, comforting environment to support you throughout the process.

Legal Knowledge and Advocacy

Sexual abuse lawyers have in-depth knowledge of important laws and regulations, including statutes of limitations, evidence collection, and victim rights. Leveraging this experience, they advocate for survivors and protect their voices and rights throughout the legal process.

Legal Representation and Support

Lawyers help survivors understand their rights and options. They can guide them through the legal system, helping them file police reports, get protective orders, and deal with civil litigation and criminal prosecution. They also offer a safe place for survivors to share, validate their emotions, and make the best decisions about their legal journey.

Access to Resources and Support Networks

Dedicated attorneys work tirelessly to support survivors of sexual abuse. They have built extensive networks of resources and services to meet the specific needs of each survivor.

These professionals connect survivors with medical experts, therapists, support groups, and advocacy organizations focused on sexual violence prevention and recovery. Connecting them to this comprehensive support system helps give certain survivors access to the care and tools they need to heal and reclaim their lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to I do if I’ve experienced sexual abuse?

If you’ve experienced sexual abuse or know someone who has, seek help and make your voice heard. We understand how difficult it can be to discuss, but holding your perpetrator accountable is necessary.

Numerous resources exist to support young and adult victims of sexual abuse. Our sexual abuse litigation law firm can guide you through your rights and next steps.

What if I didn’t fight back, or didn’t report it immediately?

Don’t worry if you didn’t fight back or report the incident immediately. Review the California statute of limitations, as new regulations have expanded the timeframe for filing a lawsuit.

Can businesses be held responsible for sexual abuse?

Businesses may need to pay for sexual assault, depending on the circumstances. This includes schools, daycares, youth organizations, and other organizations that may be liable under premises liability laws in Los Angeles.

Adamson Ahdoot’s Experienced Sexual Abuse Attorneys Can Get Justice for You

If you or a loved one has endured sexual abuse, our team of seasoned attorneys can help you pursue justice. When these traumatic and frustrating events occur, securing legal representation from lawyers with years of experience in sexual abuse and harassment cases is often the best path forward.

At Adamson Ahdoot, our compassionate sexual harassment lawyers have over a century of combined legal experience to handle your case. We will sympathize with your story and guide you towards the financial compensation and mental relief you deserve.

Our attorneys tirelessly help clients get the necessary resources to move forward with their lives. If you have suffered any form of abuse, please reach out to us at (877) 871-3265. Your initial consultation with one of our sexual abuse or harassment lawyers is completely free and confidential. We will fight on behalf of those hurt by someone they should have been able to trust.