Survivors of childhood sexual abuse in California have civil legal rights — including, in many cases, years longer to come forward than most people realize. This page explains, without pressure, how these cases work and what protections exist for survivors.
Legal action built around protection and proof
These cases require deliberate, careful handling from the outset. Each matter is evaluated by the attorney directly, with the survivor’s safety and wishes setting the pace:
- Sensitive evidence is preserved carefully to protect the survivor and maintain credibility throughout the case.
- Institutional failures are examined to determine whether warnings were ignored or legal duties were breached.
- Survivor safety, privacy, and control over communication are prioritized at every stage.
When institutions are responsible
Many cases involve organizations — schools, religious institutions, youth organizations — that failed to act despite warning signs or legal duties. Claims focus on establishing accountability through documented failures and statutory obligations, not on forcing survivors to relive harm in public.
At your pace, in your language
There is no obligation and no timetable imposed on you. Conversations are confidential, and consultations are available in English, Spanish, Russian, and Armenian. If and when you are ready, we will explain your options clearly and let you decide what happens next.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do survivors have to file a civil claim in California?
California significantly extended these deadlines. Under Code of Civil Procedure §340.1 (as amended by AB 218), survivors of childhood sexual assault generally may file until age 40, or within five years of discovering that psychological injury arising after adulthood was caused by the abuse — whichever is later. Because the rules have changed over time, the deadline for a specific situation should be reviewed individually.
Can institutions be held responsible, not just the abuser?
Yes. Schools, religious organizations, youth programs, and other institutions can be civilly liable where they knew or should have known of the risk and failed to act — for example, by ignoring warnings or failing to supervise. Institutional accountability is often central to these cases.
Will our family's privacy be protected?
California courts allow survivors in these cases to proceed under a pseudonym (such as "Jane Doe" or "John Doe") in appropriate circumstances, and sensitive information can be protected during litigation. Survivor privacy, safety, and control over communication are prioritized at every stage of how the firm handles these matters.
What does a civil case provide that a criminal case does not?
A criminal case is brought by the state and can result in punishment of the abuser. A civil case is the survivor's own claim — it can provide compensation for therapy and other harms, and it can hold institutions financially accountable for enabling the abuse. The two can proceed independently.
