Los Angeles Sexual Abuse Lawyer
Sexual abuse is a very serious crime in Los Angeles and a conviction will result in very harsh penalties. For survivors though, the emotional and psychological impacts of sexual abuse are devastating and remain with them for the rest of their life. When sexual abuse happens in the workplace, sexual abuse can also result in the loss of a job. If you or a loved one has suffered from this behavior, our Los Angeles sexual abuse lawyer can help you through this difficult time.
What is Sexual Abuse?
Sexual abuse involves any nonconsensual or unwanted acts of a sexual nature. Pressuring, forcing, coercing, or intimidating another person into committing a sexual act, when they do not consent to it, is sexual abuse. Sexual abuse can occur between family members, in institutions such as churches or nursing homes, and in the workplace. It can also involve strangers, friends, and co-workers. Some of the most common examples of sexual abuse include:
- Physical molestation or sexual assault
- Kissing or hugging without consent
- Unwanted violent sexual activity
- Attempted rape, rape, or statutory rape
- Sexual contact with someone under the influence, unconscious, or drugged
Sexual abuse does not always involve physical acts. For example, discriminating against someone based on sex is a form of discrimination that is considered sexual abuse. Sexual harassment also does not necessarily need to involve a physical act, but is still sexual abuse nonetheless.
The Sexual Abuse Laws in Los Angeles
People sometimes use the terms sexual assault and sexual abuse interchangeably, but the laws in California have slightly different definitions of the two. Sexual assault refers to the criminal act of touching someone in an intimate manner, while the person is being restrained, the touching is against their consent, and the touching is done for the purpose of arousing, gratifying, or abusing the victim. On the other hand, sexual abuse refers to sexual assault that occurs consistently over a period of time. Sexual abuse often refers to acts in which children are victims.
Statute of Limitations on Sexual Abuse Claims
If you have experienced sexual abuse, you may have the legal right to file a claim. However, you only have a certain amount of time to do so. If you are over the age of 18 years old, you have ten years from the last date of abuse. Children who are younger than 18 years of age have five years from the date they discovered the abuse emotionally traumatized them, or until they are 40 years old, to file a claim.
The statute of limitations plays an important role in sexual abuse cases. If you do not file your claim before the time limit expires, you will likely be barred from receiving any financial compensation at all.
Contact Our Sexual Abuse Lawyer in Los Angeles Today
Regardless of where or when your abuse occurred, it is critical that you obtain sound legal advice. At The Garza Firm, our Los Angeles sexual abuse lawyer can answer your questions, guide you through the process, and help you through this difficult time. Call us now at (949) 570-8350 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with one of our compassionate attorneys.
