San Bernardino Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Sexual abuse can happen anywhere in San Bernardino, from homes to public spaces and workplaces. Survivors are left to cope with the emotional aftermath of attacks that can require mental health counseling at San Bernardino County Behavioral Health and elsewhere. Whether your abuse occurred recently or years ago, you have the right to secure legal representation from a San Bernardino sexual abuse lawyer who can stand with you throughout the civil legal process.

A sexual assault attorney can play a crucial role in improving your chances of a successful outcome in your case. Whether your case is resolved through settlement negotiations or action in court, having legal representation is crucial.

At Easton & Easton, we understand that no settlement or jury verdict can undo the harm and emotional trauma you endured. Taking legal action against a perpetrator can be a critical first step on your road to recovery that allows you to reclaim control over your life and your future. From the moment your abuser receives notice that they must appear in court to answer for what they did, you can begin holding them accountable for the harm they caused.

Our firm is committed to providing compassionate, client-focused representation throughout every step of the legal process. With over 100 years of combined experience, we are dedicated to fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve. You can trust that we will approach your case with the discretion and determination needed to achieve a favorable and just outcome that allows you to move forward with confidence.

In California, more than one in three women and one in four men report experiencing sexual violence involving physical contact in their lifetime. Survivors of sexual abuse in San Bernardino have powerful rights under California law. No matter when the abuse occurred in your life, you may still have a path to seek accountability and justice.

You have the right to seek legal representation and to report the criminal acts. The San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office maintains a Special Victims Kiosk to help streamline the reporting process for survivors of sexual violence. San Bernardino County had a violent crime rate of 99.6 per 100,000 for sexual assault in 2021, the same year that saw 39 rapes reported locally.

Even when the perpetrator of your attack faces criminal charges, you can still take action through the civil courts at the San Bernardino Civil Division at 247 West Third Street. While the criminal courts aim to punish criminals when prosecutors can prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, the civil courts can hold defendants financially liable when the plaintiff and their attorney can demonstrate that a preponderance of the evidence supports their claim.

Once a claim is accepted by the court, the case moves to the pre-trial discovery and potential resolution. Many cases are resolved outside of a courtroom, but if a trial is necessary, a judge or jury will evaluate whether the defendant should be held liable based on a preponderance of the evidence. Throughout this process, survivors can retain privacy protections and work with advocates who focus on trauma-informed representation.

In 2022, 3,082 people in California applied for compensation from the California Victim Compensation Board after reporting being sexually assaulted. In San Bernardino and throughout California, the statute of limitations for civil sexual abuse claims depends on the age of the survivor and the circumstances of the abuse.

Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 340.1, child sexual abuse survivors can file a claim at any time if the abuse occurred on or after January 1, 2024. For child sexual abuse that occurred before January 1, 2024, survivors have until they turn 40 or within five years of discovering that the abuse caused emotional or psychological harm, whichever is later, to file a claim.

For adults, California Code of Civil Procedure § 340.16 allows survivors to bring a civil claim within 10 years of the last act of abuse or within three years of realizing the abuse led to psychological injury. These deadlines are important when filing in the San Bernardino County Superior Court, Civil Division, because time limits vary based on discovery and other exceptions.

Even if you are worried that you may have missed an important deadline, you should still consult with an attorney to see what options you may have. California’s civil laws go to great lengths to provide survivors with legal resources through our justice system.

Sexual abuse leaves more than physical wounds. A sexual assault can cause deep, life-altering psychological harm that affects every aspect of a survivor’s life. Many sexual assault survivors struggle with anxiety, depression, PTSD, long-term trust issues, and other serious hardships for years or even decades.

In San Bernardino County, local organizations like the San Bernardino Sexual Assault Services help survivors by offering free, confidential, and tailored support for those affected by sexual violence. Like other nonprofits, they often assist with safety planning, resource referrals, and accompaniment during forensic exams or legal proceedings.

For those who were abused as children, the trauma can interfere with development and lead to lifelong emotional and behavioral challenges. Even when the abuse happened years ago, the effects can surface suddenly and disrupt a survivor’s life in unexpected ways. California law acknowledges this reality by allowing ample time for survivors to come forward.

Having strong legal representation throughout your sexual abuse claim can provide powerful benefits and advantages. By working with an experienced attorney, you can be confident that your case is being handled with professionalism and care.

Sexual abuse attorneys understand how to collect and preserve critical evidence. They can build a solid foundation of evidence that positions you to secure significant compensation for the harm and financial losses you suffered.

Sexual abuse cases can be complicated and involve cover-ups by large institutions like youth organizations and religious entities. If those parent organizations knew about the abuse and failed to report it, they could also be held financially liable for the harm you suffered. A lawyer is more than a litigator and negotiator. They can provide emotional support and encouragement during a challenging time.

Can You File a Civil Claim for Sexual Abuse in San Bernardino?

You can file a civil claim for sexual abuse in San Bernardino if you were harmed by an individual or an organization that failed to prevent the abuse. California law gives survivors extended time to take legal action. These claims may seek compensation for emotional trauma, lost income, medical care, and other long-term impacts caused by the abuse.

How Do Civil Claims for Sexual Abuse Differ From Criminal Charges?

Civil claims for sexual abuse focus on financial accountability rather than criminal punishment. Survivors can bring claims against individuals or institutions to recover compensation for emotional and financial harm. Unlike criminal cases, civil cases rely on a lower standard of proof called a preponderance of the evidence, making it possible to seek justice even without a criminal conviction.

Can a School Be Held Responsible for Sexual Abuse by a Teacher?

A school can be held responsible in a civil claim if it fails to prevent or respond to sexual abuse by a teacher. Liability may exist if the school ignored red flags, failed to conduct background checks, or mishandled prior complaints. These claims can pursue damages for the survivor’s emotional and psychological injuries.

What Types of Damages Are Available in Sexual Abuse Claims?

Sexual abuse claims may include damages for emotional distress, therapy costs, medical expenses, and loss of quality of life. In some cases, punitive damages are also available when the abuse involves extreme misconduct or institutional cover-ups. Each case is evaluated individually based on the severity of harm and the responsible party’s actions.

How Long Do You Have To File a Sexual Abuse Claim in California?

In California, the time limit for filing a sexual abuse claim depends on when the abuse occurred and the age of the victim at the time of the abuse. For claims involving organizational cover-ups, there may be no deadline. The time frames allow survivors a long period to pursue civil claims against abusers and institutions that failed to prevent the abuse.

Nothing can ever undo the emotional harm you suffered at the hands of an abuser, but taking action through the courts can help you on your long journey to recovery. The trial-ready attorneys at Easton & Easton have helped many survivors of sexual abuse reclaim control over their lives by securing justice and compensation through a sexual abuse claim.

When you choose our award-winning firm, you gain a dedicated partner who can fight tirelessly for your rights while treating your case with discretion and care. If you or a loved one has been affected, take action today. Contact our office for a free consultation, and let us help you explore your legal options.