Personal Injury Settlements and Cases Won in California.
California’s bustling urban centers and diverse communities, while vibrant, unfortunately also see instances of sexual abuse that present grave dangers to individual well-being. Abusers, systemic vulnerabilities, and various other contributing factors can inflict profound psychological trauma, emotional anguish, and significant financial strain on victims and their loved ones. From isolated incidents to ongoing patterns of abuse and assaults by perpetrators known or unknown, these occurrences often lead to enduring, sometimes irreparable, ramifications.
Pursuing sexual abuse claim in California can be daunting—particularly when continuous therapeutic intervention, restorative support, or extensive assistance is necessary. Survivors may be entitled to monetary restitution that covers healthcare expenses, diminished earning capacity, and emotional distress. Collaborating with an experienced California sexual abuse attorney can significantly enhance your prospects of securing the reparations essential for comprehensive healing.
This resource delineates the primary categories of sexual abuse claims, the forms of damages that might be accessible, and the crucial actions to undertake when initiating legal proceedings in California. Comprehending your entitlements under state legislation can empower you to make well-informed choices and concentrate on both your psychological and emotional recovery.
At RMD Law, we understand how personal and painful it is to come forward about sexual abuse. That’s why confidentiality is not just a promise—it’s a priority. When you choose to share your experience with us, you can trust that your story will be treated with the utmost privacy, respect, and professionalism. We offer a secure and compassionate space where survivors feel safe to speak, supported every step of the way.
Survivors of sexual abuse often carry invisible wounds. At RMD Law, we want you to know—we believe you. Whether the abuse happened recently or many years ago, our team is here to help you pursue justice with dignity and strength. We work with experienced professionals and survivor-centered resources across California to ensure you’re supported legally, emotionally, and practically as you begin this journey.
Survivors in California have powerful legal rights. You may be eligible to file a civil claim against the individual abuser, as well as any institution that enabled or failed to prevent the abuse. These claims can lead to financial compensation for emotional trauma, therapy, lost wages, and other damages. RMD Law is here to help you understand your rights, evaluate your options, and move forward with a plan that honors your story and your healing.
At RMD Law, we represent survivors across a wide range of sexual abuse cases in California. No matter where or how the abuse occurred, our team is here to listen, advocate, and help you take legal action with compassion and care.
1. Child Sexual Abuse (CSA)
We represent survivors of child sexual abuse across California, including those who were harmed by family members, teachers, neighbors, or others in positions of trust. Many survivors carry the impact of this trauma well into adulthood. At RMD Law, we approach every child sexual abuse case with deep sensitivity, providing guidance on how to seek justice—no matter how much time has passed.
2. Institutional Abuse (Schools, Churches, Youth Programs)
Institutions that work with children and vulnerable individuals have a legal and moral responsibility to protect them. When these organizations fail to act—or worse, cover up abuse—RMD Law works to hold them accountable. We handle cases involving schools, sports programs, after-school clubs, and youth organizations throughout California.
3. Clergy and Religious Abuse
Survivors of clergy abuse have faced not only physical and emotional harm but also betrayal by trusted religious leaders. These cases often involve decades of silence and systemic coverups. RMD Law helps survivors come forward and pursue claims against churches, dioceses, and religious institutions that failed to protect them.
4. Sexual Abuse in Foster Care or Group Homes
Foster care systems and group homes are meant to provide safety for children, not danger. Unfortunately, abuse by caregivers, staff, or other residents still occurs. RMD Law takes these cases seriously and seeks justice for children who were failed by the very systems meant to protect them.
5. Workplace Sexual Harassment and Assault
Work should be a safe and respectful environment. When employers ignore or enable sexual harassment or assault, they can be held legally responsible. RMD Law advocates for workers in California who have experienced inappropriate conduct, coercion, or abuse in the workplace.
6. Rideshare (Uber & Lyft) Sexual Assault
Rideshare platforms like Uber and Lyft have a duty to vet drivers and respond appropriately to safety concerns. If you’ve been sexually assaulted by a rideshare driver, you may be able to hold both the individual and the company accountable. Our team helps survivors take action and demand corporate accountability.
7. Adult Survivors of Childhood Abuse
Many survivors are not ready to speak out until decades later—and California law recognizes this. RMD Law assists adults who are now ready to seek justice for abuse that occurred during their childhood. You may still have a legal path forward, especially under the provisions of the California Child Victims Act.
The California Child Victims Act (AB 218) extends the time survivors of childhood sexual abuse have to file civil claims. Under this law, you may be able to take legal action until the age of 40—or within five years of discovering the lasting effects of the abuse. AB 218 also opened a three-year window (2020–2022) for previously time-barred claims to be filed. Even if you’re unsure about your eligibility, RMD Law can review your case and help you understand if this law still applies to you.
California law offers extended timeframes for survivors of sexual abuse to take legal action, but these timelines—known as statutes of limitations—still have limits. Understanding these deadlines is crucial in preserving your right to file a civil lawsuit. Recent changes in California law, including the Child Victims Act (AB 218), have expanded the filing window for many survivors.
In California, child survivors of sexual abuse typically have until age 40 to file a claim—or five years from the time they discover the psychological effects of the abuse. Adults who were abused as children can also bring claims under these expanded timelines. For adults who were assaulted after turning 18, the standard filing deadline is generally 10 years from the incident or within three years of discovering the impact of the abuse.
Many survivors do not immediately recognize the emotional and psychological harm caused by abuse, which is why California law includes the “delayed discovery” rule. This legal principle allows survivors to file a claim when they first become aware of how the abuse has affected their mental or emotional health. A knowledgeable attorney can help determine whether this exception applies to your situation.
When schools, churches, youth organizations, or corporations fail to protect victims or enable abusers, they may be legally responsible. Institutions that ignore warning signs or complaints, or actively cover up misconduct, can be held accountable under civil law. These cases not only help individual survivors but also push for systemic change.
Organizations have a legal duty to carefully screen and monitor the people they hire—especially those who work with children or vulnerable individuals. When a company or institution fails to perform proper background checks or overlooks red flags, it can be sued for negligent hiring or supervision. These claims focus on whether the institution’s inaction directly contributed to the abuse.
Some institutions go to great lengths to conceal abuse, protect reputations, or avoid liability. When a school, religious organization, or business actively hides misconduct or moves abusers to different locations without reporting them, it may face liability for deliberate concealment. RMD Law works to uncover these patterns and hold institutions fully accountable.
The state files a criminal case and focuses on punishing the abuser with penalties like imprisonment or probation. A civil case, on the other hand, is initiated by the survivor and seeks financial compensation for the harm suffered. Even if criminal charges are not filed or result in acquittal, survivors can still pursue civil justice. Civil lawsuits provide an opportunity for survivors to hold individuals and institutions accountable through a lower burden of proof.
Working with an experienced California sexual abuse attorney can make a significant difference in your case. At RMD Law, we’re committed to providing survivors with professional, compassionate, and dedicated representation throughout every step of the process.
We create a secure and respectful space where survivors can share their story without fear of judgment or exposure. Every conversation is confidential and survivor-led.
Our team conducts thorough investigations into your case, including identifying the abuser, uncovering institutional failures, and collecting supporting evidence. We often work with investigators and expert witnesses to strengthen your claim.
We believe that healing is just as important as justice. That’s why we connect our clients with trusted therapists, support groups, and survivor advocacy organizations across California.
We don’t just represent you—we fight for you. Our attorneys aggressively advocate for full accountability and maximum compensation, ensuring your voice is heard in and out of the courtroom.
Bringing a civil case forward in California follows several key phases:
1. Initial Case Evaluation and Consultation
The first step involves a confidential consultation with an attorney at RMD Law, where you’ll discuss your experience and potential legal options. Our team will listen carefully, assess the details of your case, and determine whether a civil claim is viable under California law. This step often includes reviewing any available documentation, such as therapy records, institutional correspondence, or prior reports. There’s no obligation to move forward, and your privacy is fully protected.
2. Gathering Evidence and Building the Case
Once you decide to proceed, your attorney will begin collecting evidence to support your claim. This may include witness statements, psychological evaluations, medical records, and institutional documents. Our legal team will also investigate potential patterns of abuse or institutional negligence. Strong evidence helps establish liability and strengthens your case for compensation.
3. Filing the Civil Complaint
Your attorney will then file a formal legal complaint in civil court. This document outlines the details of the abuse, names the defendant(s), and states the damages being sought. Filing officially begins the legal process and puts the accused party on notice. From this point, they must respond within a certain timeframe under California law.
4. Discovery and Information Exchange
During discovery, both sides share evidence and gather additional information relevant to the case. This phase may involve depositions, document requests, and interrogatories. Discovery is often lengthy but essential to uncovering critical facts and holding the responsible party accountable. RMD Law will manage this process and keep you informed every step of the way.
5. Settlement Negotiations
Many sexual abuse cases in California are resolved through settlement before reaching trial. Your attorney will negotiate with the defendant’s legal team to reach a fair resolution, while always prioritizing your best interests. You will have the final say on any proposed settlement offer. If a reasonable agreement isn’t reached, your case may proceed to court.
6. Going to Trial (If Needed)
If no settlement is reached, the case will move to trial, where a judge or jury will hear evidence and make a decision. Your attorney will present your case, call witnesses, and argue on your behalf. RMD Law prepares every case thoroughly, even if it never reaches trial. Our goal is to present the strongest possible case while protecting your emotional wellbeing throughout the process.
Survivors of sexual abuse may be entitled to compensation that reflects the full scope of the harm they’ve endured. Civil damages are designed to provide financial relief and acknowledge the impact of the abuse.
Reimbursement for ongoing therapy, psychological counseling, and medical care related to the abuse can be included in a civil claim. These costs may cover both current and future treatment.
Abuse often affects a survivor’s ability to work, either temporarily or permanently. Victims can seek compensation for lost income, reduced earning capacity, or missed educational opportunities.
The emotional toll of abuse can be long-lasting. Civil claims can include damages for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and loss of enjoyment of life.
In cases involving especially egregious conduct, California courts may award punitive damages. These are meant to punish the offender and deter similar actions in the future.
If you’re ready to better understand your legal options or simply want guidance, RMD Law is here to listen. We offer free, confidential consultations with no pressure to move forward. You’ll speak with an experienced sexual abuse attorney in Sacramento who will prioritize your well-being. Let us help you begin your journey toward justice—on your terms.
Phone: (949) 528-4853
Visit our Contact Us page to schedule your consultation today.
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Sexual abuse is a deeply traumatic experience that leaves lasting emotional, psychological, and sometimes physical scars. Yet, seeking justice through a legal claim is not only possible, it can be a powerful step toward healing and reclaiming control.
A Minor’s Compromise is a court-approved process in California that ensures the proper handling of settlements for a minor’s injury or wrongful death claim. California law requires court approval of any settlement involving a minor to ensure the minor’s rights and future needs are protected.
The good news is California premises liability laws allow you to claim damages for an injury while in someone else’s property. This article discusses premises liability in California, so you know what your rights are and how to protect them.
RMD Law represents sexual abuse survivors on a contingency basis—meaning there are no upfront charges, and you pay nothing unless we successfully recover compensation. This ensures you have access to effective legal advocacy, no matter your financial standing.
No. California law permits many survivors, especially those abused as minors, to pursue civil claims anonymously. At RMD Law, we take every measure to protect your identity and handle your case with strict confidentiality. Your safety and privacy are our priorities.
In most instances, sexual abuse civil cases are resolved before trial, so it’s rare for survivors to encounter their abuser face-to-face. If the case proceeds to court, your attorney can request special accommodations, such as video testimony. We will support and guide you through each step.
Yes. Even without physical evidence, you may still have a strong case. Survivor statements, eyewitness accounts, and documentation from institutions or therapy can support your claim. Our attorneys are skilled at building solid cases using a wide range of available materials.
Possibly not. California law has expanded filing deadlines under the Child Victims Act (AB 218), especially for survivors of childhood abuse. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, RMD Law can assess your situation and explain your legal rights under the current law.
We care about your recovery. We stake our reputation on it.
Aria is a member of the prestigious Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum®. He speaks English, Farsi, and Spanish.
Nicole has settled hundreds of personal injuries claims, known for her professional, honest, and caring approach.
John is a former defense lawyer turned award-winning personal injury lawyer. He speaks English and Farsi.
Associate Attorney Yen Quach started work at RMD Law in 2017 as a paralegal. Injured clients seeking justice from insurance companies can do no better than Yen.
Ryan is a caring and experienced litigator. He defended scores of depositions and understands what it takes to move a case in California.
Ariana Martin is one of RMD Law’s skilled personal injury lawyers. She brings a lot of legal experience to the table, having worked previously in the field of insurance defense.
At RMD Law, we believe that reputation is everything. When clients trust us with their cases, we do everything in our power to help guide them. That means personal service and sharp advocacy. We care about the details of your case because that is how we can get you the best settlement.
We are Orange County personal injury lawyers servicing all of California. Our attorneys regularly handle cases from all over the state.
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RMD Law is a California Personal Injury law firm. We help victims who have been injured in accidents due to someone else’s negligence. RMD Law offers free no-obligation case evaluations for our clients.
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