California Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Our Lawyers Represent Victims of Sexual Assault and Abuse in California

**Attorney James Bell**
Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault Team Lead

**Attorney Nick Johnson**
Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault Team Lead
Former Prosecutor

**Attorney Paul Strickland**
Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault Team Lead

This is an active lawsuit and none of the allegations against the defendant(s) have been proven. The contents of this page reflect the allegations in the litigation.

Sexual assault and abuse are devastating crimes that can have long-lasting physical, emotional, and psychological effects on victims. In California, survivors have legal recourse to seek justice and hold their abusers accountable.

Navigating the complex legal landscape can be challenging, which is why it’s important to have experienced and compassionate legal representation. Oberheiden Law Group’s team of California sexual abuse lawyers focuses on helping survivors understand their rights and pursue legal action to obtain the compensation and support they deserve.

How Oberheiden Law Group Can Help Victims of Sexual Assault and Abuse in California

Oberheiden Law Group is a law firm with a nationwide presence that represents victims of sexual assault crimes. We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and are committed to providing compassionate and aggressive legal representation to sex abuse victims in California.

Our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors and helping them obtain the justice and compensation they deserve. We offer a range of services to support survivors, including:

Confidential Consultations: We provide a safe and supportive environment for survivors to discuss their experiences and explore their legal options.
Thorough Investigation: We conduct thorough investigations to gather evidence and build a strong case on behalf of our clients.
Legal Representation: We represent clients in all stages of the legal process, from filing lawsuits to negotiating settlements and litigating cases in court.
Support and Guidance: We provide ongoing support and guidance to our clients throughout the legal process, helping them navigate the complexities of the legal system.
Advocacy: We advocate for our clients’ rights and work tirelessly to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.

At Oberheiden Law Group, we believe that sexual abuse survivors in California deserve justice. We are committed to providing the highest quality legal representation to help our clients rebuild their lives and find healing.

Types of California Sexual Abuse Cases We Handle

Oberheiden Law Group handles a wide range of sexual assault and abuse cases in California, including, but not limited to:

Child Sexual Abuse

This includes any sexual contact between an adult and a minor, regardless of whether physical force was used. These cases often involve complex issues of repressed memories and the long-term impact of trauma.

Sexual Harassment in Workplaces, Schools, and Other Settings

This encompasses unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that creates a hostile environment. It may apply to adult sexual assault victims or children who have been targeted by an authority figure.

Institutional Sexual Abuse

This refers to sexual abuse that occurs within institutions, such as schools, churches, or correctional facilities. These cases often involve systemic failures to curb sexual misconduct that allowed the abuse to occur.

Clergy Sexual Abuse

This specific type of institutional abuse involves sexual abuse by members of the clergy, church employees, or volunteers. These cases often involve complex issues of religious authority and trust.

Sexual Exploitation by Medical Providers and Others

This includes the abuse of a position of power or trust to sexually exploit another person, such as by a therapist, doctor, or teacher. In many sexual assault cases, an institution can be held accountable as well as the abuser.

Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation

This increasingly prevalent form of abuse involves the use of technology to sexually exploit or abuse others, including the distribution of child pornography or the grooming of minors for sexual purposes.

No matter the specific circumstances of the sexual assault or abuse, Oberheiden Law Group is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to survivors in California. We offer confidential consultations to discuss your legal options for a sexual abuse lawsuit and provide you with the support and guidance you need during this difficult time.

What to Do If You’ve Been Sexually Abused in California

Experiencing sexual abuse is a traumatic event that can leave lasting emotional and psychological scars. If you’ve been sexually abused in California, it’s important to remember that you are not alone, and help is available. Taking the first steps can be daunting, but prioritizing your safety and well-being is paramount.

Seek Immediate Safety

Your immediate safety is the top priority. If you are in danger, remove yourself from the situation and call 911 or local law enforcement. If you’ve escaped the threat, find a safe place where you feel secure.

Get Medical Attention Right Away

Even if you don’t have visible physical injuries, seeking medical attention is essential. A medical professional can address any immediate health concerns, document any physical injuries, and provide medical care.

They can also conduct a sexual assault forensic exam (often called a “rape kit”), which can collect valuable evidence if you choose to report the assault to law enforcement. Preserving this evidence is important, so try not to shower, bathe, or change clothes before the exam if possible.

Report the Sexual Abuse to Law Enforcement

Reporting the assault to law enforcement is a personal decision. While it can be a difficult step, it can help hold the perpetrator accountable and prevent future harm to others.

Law enforcement can investigate the sex crime and pursue criminal charges. You have the right to report anonymously if you wish. A confidential advocate can also support you through the reporting process.

Seek Support and Counseling

The emotional and psychological impact of sexual abuse can be profound. Seeking support from a therapist, counselor, or support group specializing in trauma is vital for healing from the psychological and emotional effects of unwanted sexual contact. Mental health professionals can help survivors of sexual abuse to overcome psychological trauma.

These professionals can provide a safe space to process your experience, develop coping mechanisms, and begin the journey of recovery. Many organizations in California offer free or low-cost counseling services to survivors of sexual assault.

Preserve Evidence (If Possible)

If you decide to report the assault, preserving any potential evidence is important. This includes not washing clothes or cleaning the scene of the assault. If you have any text messages, emails, or other communications from the perpetrator, save them. Even if you are unsure about reporting sexual violence, preserving evidence can give you options in the future.

Contact a Sexual Assault Advocate

Sexual assault advocates are trained professionals who can provide support, resources, and guidance throughout the reporting and healing process. They can help you understand your situation and connect you with other essential services. They can also accompany you to medical appointments, law enforcement interviews, and court proceedings.

Consult with a California Sexual Abuse Attorney

A sexual assault attorney can explain your legal rights and options, including the possibility of filing a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator or any institution that may have enabled the abuse. They can help you understand the statute of limitations (deadline for filing a claim) and guide you through the legal process.

We represent survivors of sexual abuse and help take action against alleged perpetrators through a police report and pursue claims for punitive damages to find justice with our legal team’s help. The entire process will remain confidential.

Dr. Nick Oberheiden

Founder

Attorney-at-Law

Lynette S. Byrd

Former DOJ Trial Attorney

Partner

Brian J. Kuester

Former U.S. Attorney

Hon. Kevin McCarthy

55th Speaker, U.S. House of Representatives (ret.)

Government Consultant

Mike Pompeo

Of Counsel

Former U.S. Secretary of State

John W. Sellers

Former Senior DOJ Trial Attorney

Linda Julin McNamara

Federal Appeals Attorney

Nicholas B. Johnson

Former Prosecutor

Roger Bach

Former Special Agent (DOJ)

Chris J. Quick

Former Special Agent (FBI & IRS-CI)

Michael S. Koslow

Former Supervisory Special Agent (DOD-OIG)

Ray Yuen

Former Supervisory Special Agent (FBI)

FAQs: Filing a Claim for Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault in California

What Constitutes Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault in California?

In California, sexual abuse and sexual assault involve non-consensual sexual acts. Sexual assault typically refers to specific criminal acts like rape or sexual battery, emphasizing the lack of consent, often involving force, fear, or coercion. Sexual abuse is a broader term encompassing any sexual exploitation or maltreatment, including child sexual abuse and sexual harassment, which may not involve physical force.

What Are My Legal Options After a Sexual Assault in California?

In California, survivors have multiple legal options, primarily criminal prosecution or filing a civil lawsuit. The state can prosecute the perpetrator for criminal offenses like rape, sexual battery, or child molestation. This is initiated by law enforcement, not the sexual abuse victim.

Survivors can also file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator and, in some cases, other parties, such as institutions that failed to prevent the abuse. A civil lawsuit seeks monetary compensation for monetary damages, including medical expenses, therapy costs, emotional distress, and lost wages.

What Is the Deadline to File a Sexual Abuse or Assault Claim in California?

California law has specific statutes of limitations, or deadlines, for different types of sexual abuse and assault claims. These time limits can be complex and vary depending on factors like the victim’s age at the time of the abuse and the type of abuse.

It’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to understand the applicable statute of limitations in your case, as recent changes in California law have extended some of these limits.

Can I File a Lawsuit Even If the Sexual Abuse Happened Years Ago?

In some cases, yes. California law has provisions that allow for lawsuits to be filed even if the abuse occurred many years ago, especially in cases of childhood sexual abuse. These laws recognize the delayed effects of trauma and the challenges survivors face in coming forward. However, these cases can be complex, and it’s essential to seek legal advice immediately

Get Financial Compensation to Help You Move Forward After Sexual Abuse in California

If you or a loved one was sexually abused or assaulted in California, you may be able to get financial compensation to cover your losses, including medical bills and pain and suffering. Oberheiden Law Group will listen to your story, evaluate your case, and help you make the best decision about how to proceed forward.

You are not alone. Help is available, and you deserve justice. It’s important to prioritize your safety and your rights after sexual abuse.

Contact Oberheiden Law Group for a free, confidential consultation of your specific situation. Our experienced California sex abuse lawyers are standing by. Call 888-680-1745 or contact us online to discuss your case.

Further Information About Our Lawyers for Victims of Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault Lawsuit Services

Disclaimer
Please see full DISCLAIMER on website below.

The only Firm attorneys admitted in California are Nicholas Johnson and Paul Strickland. Local counsel James Bell is also admitted in California. Any other lawyer displayed or mentioned in connection with matters in California are either attorneys admitted in jurisdictions other than California or non-lawyer consultants. Firm attorneys not admitted in California do not advise on California law and they do not practice California law. Upon special request by an informed client, Firm attorneys not admitted in California may assist California licensed attorneys on federal law matters within the confines detailed in our Disclaimer and FTC Disclaimer. Importantly, Firm does not have offices in California.

The display or mentioning of any individual throughout the Oberheiden Law Group website in the so-called hero-section at the top or bottom of our pages or referenced in our content does NOT suggest that this individual is an attorney, or is admitted in California as a lawyer, or will work on a case in California or elsewhere.

Disclaimer:
The content on this site is informational only and describes mere allegations. The content does not suggest evidence, proof, or guaranteed liability. The merits of each case depend on specific facts. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes in future cases. For more details, please see our FTC and general disclaimers. Oberheiden Law is the law firm in charge.