California Civil Sexual Abuse & Assault Claims
Standing with survivors of sexual abuse and assault.
Free, confidential legal consultation with attorneys who represent survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault. You set the pace. You decide what to share. We're here when you're ready.
Confidential · No obligation · Free consultation
You're not alone
The scale of harm is hard to hold.
Every 68 sec.
An American is sexually assaulted.
Source: RAINN
About 1 in 4
Sexual assaults are reported to police.
Source: BJS, National Crime Victimization Survey
Far fewer
Pursue a civil claim, though civil action is often the only route to accountability.
Our focus
We focus on one area of law.
We represent survivors in civil sexual abuse and sexual assault claims, and that is the work this practice is built around.
Trauma-informed by default
Our intake, communication and litigation strategy are built around what survivors tell us they need, not around what is convenient for a law firm.
Institutional claims
These claims are usually against an organization and its insurer rather than one person: California schools and school districts, churches, healthcare and foster care organizations, public entities, and rideshare platforms.
Representing survivors throughout California
We handle civil sexual abuse and sexual assault claims across California, including claims involving institutions, organizations, people in positions of trust, and other responsible parties.
Where we work
Practice areas
Rideshare
Sexual assault by rideshare drivers, and the platforms behind them.
✚Medical
Doctors, hospitals, dentists, therapists.
✦Schools and universities
Teachers, coaches, schools, colleges, daycares.
✧Religious institutions
Clergy sexual abuse and institutional cover-ups.
❖Youth organizations
Youth sports, scouting, clubs, and summer camps.
◉Workplace sexual assault and abuse
Sexual assault and abuse by coworkers, supervisors, or clients.
◈Detention and foster care
Foster care, group homes, juvenile detention.
Filing deadlines
California Sexual Abuse & Assault Filing Deadlines
California law provides specific filing deadlines for civil sexual abuse and sexual assault claims, including special rules that may apply to childhood sexual abuse, adult sexual assault, institutional claims, and certain previously time-barred claims. The deadline can depend on when the abuse occurred, the survivor's age, the type of defendant, and other circumstances.
What can affect your deadline
- Childhood sexual abuse Special rules
- Adult sexual assault Specific deadlines
- Institutional claims May differ
- Public-entity defendants Claim notice rules
General information only. Only an attorney review can determine whether a claim may still be timely.
Our approach
What trauma-informed legal representation actually means.
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You set the pace.
We never push you to share more than you are ready to share, at intake, in discovery, or at trial.
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Plain language.
We explain legal terms when they come up. There are no stupid questions and nothing is too small to ask.
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Predictable communication.
You hear from us on a schedule we agree on. You can always reach a real person on our team.
Resources
For you, whether or not you ever contact us.
Get help now →
The National Sexual Assault Hotline is free, confidential and open 24 hours a day. It is not part of this firm.
How a civil lawsuit works →
What actually happens, step by step, from first call through resolution.
Filing anonymously →
Privacy options in California courts, and what they do and do not cover.
FAQ
Common questions.
The questions we hear most often. None of this replaces a conversation with an attorney about your specific situation.
Do I have to report to police to file a civil lawsuit?
No. A civil lawsuit is separate from any criminal case. You do not need to have made a police report, and there does not need to be a criminal prosecution for you to pursue a civil claim.
Can I file anonymously?
In California courts, survivors can often file using a pseudonym (Jane Doe / John Doe). We talk through privacy options before anything is filed.
How long do I have to file?
California law has specific deadlines for civil sexual abuse and assault claims, and special rules may apply to childhood sexual abuse, institutional claims, and some previously time-barred claims. The deadline depends on your circumstances, and an attorney review is the only way to know for certain.
How much does it cost to work with you?
The first consultation is free, confidential and carries no obligation. If we go further than that, the fee arrangement is explained and put in writing before you agree to anything.
How long does a lawsuit take?
Most cases take one to three years, though mass tort and institutional cases can take longer. We will give you a realistic timeline at the start and keep you updated throughout.
What if the abuse happened a long time ago?
Many survivors come to us decades after the abuse. Under California law, special rules for childhood sexual abuse and delayed discovery may still allow a claim. Please reach out and we will tell you honestly what we see.
Confidential · Compassionate · On your side
We're Here to Listen.
If you've experienced sexual abuse, you may have legal options. Our compassionate team is here to listen and help you understand your next steps, with no pressure or obligation.
Call for a free, confidential consultation
(866) 694-1630Your privacy matters. Share only what you're comfortable sharing.
When you're ready
Reach us the way that feels safest.
Free, confidential, no obligation. Contacting this firm does not create an attorney-client relationship until we agree in writing.
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Web form
Share what you're comfortable with, at your own pace.
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Text us
Send a short message. We'll respond privately.
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Call us
Speak with intake, confidential and no obligation.
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Schedule a call
Pick a time that works for you.
Privacy is our default. Read our privacy policy.