Victim of a sexual abuse?

When the unthinkable happens, you may have legal options to pursue a civil claim related to the harm you experienced. Contact the team at Sweet James Accident Attorneys to discuss your options.

Taking the first step is often the most difficult. By speaking with a Newport Beach sexual abuse lawyer at Sweet James Accident Attorneys, you’ll have a confidential space to understand your options without any pressure. Call us to discuss your case.

Key Takeaways for Newport Beach Sexual Abuse Lawyer

• You may have the right to file a civil lawsuit to seek financial compensation, a process entirely separate from any criminal charges.
• Your Newport Beach sex abuse lawyer may assist with aspects of the legal process, including privacy considerations and communications with opposing parties.
• Compensation may cover a wide range of damages, including medical care, lost income, emotional trauma, and other compensation under the law.
• In addition to the perpetrator, negligent institutions like schools, businesses, or other organizations may also be subject to civil claims under certain circumstances.

Why Choose Sweet James Accident Attorneys for Your Sexual Abuse Case

Our firm helps to support survivors of sexual abuse with the respect they deserve.

A Local Firm

Our attorneys have deep roots in Orange County. We’re not just lawyers in the area; we’re part of this community. We understand the local legal landscape, from the Superior Court of Orange County to the procedures of Newport Beach law enforcement.

Our connection to Newport Beach means we’re invested in the safety and well-being of its residents. We’re familiar with the places that define our city, from the shores of the Balboa Peninsula and Corona del Mar to the bustling environment of Fashion Island.

Our local knowledge may offer an advantage when building your case. It allows us to investigate thoroughly, drawing on connections and resources throughout Newport Coast and along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Compassionate Guidance

From your first confidential call, you’ll notice our client-focused approach. We prioritize your well-being and a safe, supportive environment. We provide information and guidance to help you understand the legal process and available options. Consider calling Sweet James Accident Attorneys.

Preserving Key Information for Your Case

While your attorney will lead the formal investigation, there are things you can do to preserve information that may be relevant to your claim. Organizing what you remember and saving certain items may be relevant to a potential civil claim.

Take these three actions:

• Document Your Experience: Write down everything you remember about the incident or incidents in a private journal. Include dates, times, locations, and any other details that come to mind.
• Save Digital Communications: Keep any relevant text messages, emails, or social media messages from the perpetrator. Don’t delete them, as they can serve as valuable information.
• Identify Potential Witnesses: Make a list of anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has knowledge of the abuser’s behavior. Don’t contact them yourself; give this list to your lawyer.

Pursuing Compensation in Orange County

Filing a civil lawsuit is separate from any criminal charges the state might pursue. A civil claim empowers you to seek financial compensation for the harm you have endured.

A Newport Beach sexual assault lawyer can pursue compensation for your damages, which may include:

• Past and Future Medical Care: This compensation covers medical treatment related to the assault, starting from any initial emergency room visit. It may include the cost of therapy, counseling, prescription medications for anxiety or PTSD, and any other psychological or physical treatment you need now and may need in the future.
• Lost Income and Diminished Earning Capacity: You may pursue wages for any work you missed due to the assault, including time for medical appointments and recovery. We also may seek compensation if the trauma has impacted your ability to earn a living in the future, such as being unable to return to your previous job or pursue career advancements.
• Emotional Distress: This acknowledges the profound, non-financial impact of the assault. It addresses psychological trauma, including anxiety, depression, fear, and PTSD. It may also compensate for losing your ability to enjoy daily activities, hobbies, and relationships that once brought you happiness.

Consider letting a Newport Beach sexual assault attorney pursue compensation allowed under the law.

Holding Institutions Accountable for Abuse in Newport Beach

Sometimes, the perpetrator isn’t the only party responsible for your harm. Institutions and organizations have a duty to create a safe environment for everyone they serve. When they fail, a Newport Beach sexual abuse lawyer may assist with pursuing civil claims against institutions under certain circumstances.

This applies to a wide range of entities in Orange County. We investigate whether schools, religious organizations, businesses, or healthcare facilities failed in their responsibilities. An investigation may examine whether the institution knew or should have known about the danger and did nothing to stop it.

For example, a business may be liable for negligent hiring if it didn’t conduct a proper background check on an employee. A school district may be liable for negligent supervision if it failed to protect students from a dangerous individual.

Understanding Your Rights and Options

Survivors of sexual assault have the right to pursue a civil lawsuit for damages, regardless of whether a criminal case moves forward. The burden of proof in a civil case is different and less stringent than in a criminal one.

You also have a right to privacy. We strive to protect your identity throughout the legal process. In many cases, it’s possible to file a lawsuit using a pseudonym to shield your name from public records.

It’s also important to know that time limits, known as statutes of limitations, apply to these cases. California law provides different filing deadlines depending on the survivor’s age at the time of the abuse and other factors. An attorney can explain how current statutes may apply. However, it’s beneficial to explore your options sooner rather than later to preserve evidence and understand how deadlines may apply.

How a Newport Beach Sexual Abuse Attorney May Help

Navigating the legal system on your own can be a complex and draining task. A Newport Beach sexual abuse lawyer from Sweet James Accident Attorneys may be able to help. We assist with legal procedures and communications related to a civil claim.

Here are the specific ways an attorney may provide support:

• Conducting an Independent Investigation: We can launch a thorough investigation separate from any law enforcement inquiry. This involves gathering physical evidence, locating and interviewing witnesses, and uncovering any history of similar behavior by the perpetrator.
• Preserving Critical Evidence: Your legal team may secure and preserve evidence before it disappears. We send legal notices to retain video footage, employment records, and relevant digital communications for your claim.
• Managing All Communications: Your lawyer can act as your single point of contact, handling all communication with the abuser’s lawyers, insurance companies, and any other opposing parties. You don’t have to speak with them directly.
• Filing All Legal Documents: We can prepare and file all necessary legal paperwork with the court.
• Calculating Your Damages: Our team works to identify the impact the assault has had on your life. We document everything from medical expenses and lost wages to the emotional and psychological trauma.

Next Steps in Understanding Your Legal Options

You may consider speaking with an attorney to understand your legal options and the civil claims process. Call our experienced Newport Beach personal injury lawyers today.

Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.