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Sexual abuse is one of the most traumatic and life-altering experiences someone can go through. If you are suffering from a sexual abuse incident, you could be facing emotional distress, physical harm, or long-term psychological damage. At Banafshe Law Firm, PC, we have witnessed the suffering the victims go through, and we understand what is needed to advocate for their rights effectively. Call our firm today to speak with a Fresno sexual abuse attorney and learn about your legal options for seeking justice.
Sexual abuse cases take many forms. Here are some forms of sexual abuse we have handled in Fresno, California:
Sexual assault or battery refers to any non-consensual sexual act imposed on an individual. This includes physical contact such as groping, forced sexual intercourse, or sexual penetration without consent. Victims of sexual assault or battery have the right to pursue legal action against their abusers to seek justice and compensation.
Child sexual abuse is one of the most heinous crimes, often committed by individuals in positions of power or trust, such as teachers, coaches, or religious leaders, according to the Adult Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse. However, the worst part of child sexual abuse cases is that the victims may not fully understand what is happening to them, and in many cases, they are manipulated or threatened into silence.
The effects of child sexual abuse can follow victims into adulthood, causing depression, anxiety, and difficulties in forming healthy relationships. In such cases, we highly recommend legal action against abusers and the institutions that enabled them to provide closure and financial support for therapy and rehabilitation.
Sexual harassment or assault in the workplace creates a toxic environment that makes it difficult for victims to perform their job duties. Harassment can include unwanted advances, inappropriate comments, coercion, or even sexual assault by employers, coworkers, or clients.
Moreover, many victims fear retaliation or job loss if they report the abuse, leaving them trapped in an unsafe work environment. They are made to believe that even if they report, no one can help them. However, California law protects employees from such harassment, and legal action can help hold perpetrators and negligent employers accountable.
Institutional abuse occurs when a school, religious organization, sports team, or other institution fails to protect individuals from sexual abuse. Many cases involve cover-ups, where administrators prioritize the institution’s reputation over the safety of victims.
Survivors of institutional abuse often face challenges in coming forward due to fear of stigma or disbelief. We can help in holding institutions accountable through legal action to help prevent future abuse and provide victims with justice.
Human trafficking involves forcing individuals into sexual acts through coercion, manipulation, or physical threats. Perpetrators often lure victims with false promises of employment, love, or security, only to find themselves trapped in a cycle of abuse.
Many traffickers target vulnerable individuals, such as minors or those facing financial hardships, making it difficult for them to escape. Legal intervention and advocacy are critical in dismantling trafficking networks and providing survivors with the support they need to rebuild their lives.
California law provides strong protections for sexual abuse survivors and holds perpetrators, as well as the institutions that enable them, legally accountable.
Liability in sexual abuse cases is different from other incidents, such as car accident cases. This is because sometimes, liability in sexual abuse cases may extend beyond the perpetrator. Depending on the circumstances, responsible parties can include:
We have noted that investigating sexual abuse cases is incredibly sensitive and tricky. Sexual abuse victims often suffer from shame, guilt, fear, and PTSD. Reliving the experience during an investigation can be incredibly difficult and re-traumatizing.
Also, the power imbalance between the abuser and the victim makes it challenging for victims to come forward, especially if the abuser holds a position of authority or influence. However, our legal team has the resources and is ready to thoroughly investigate your case to determine all liable parties and pursue justice.
Under Section 340.1 of the California Code of Civil Procedure, victims of childhood sexual abuse can file a lawsuit at age 40 or five years from the date of abuse discovery, to file a civil lawsuit. These extended deadlines demonstrate California’s commitment to understanding the intricate nature of trauma and the duration it may require for survivors to step forward.
Also, the recent Senate Bill 1386 now makes it clear that defendants cannot use a survivor’s past sexual conduct to undermine their testimony or downplay their claims of injury. This adjustment not only bolsters the rights of survivors but also reinforces the principle that an individual’s history should not detract from their pursuit of justice.
In cases involving adult sexual abuse, the statute of limitations varies, but survivors generally have ten years from the date of the assault or three years from the discovery of psychological harm to file a lawsuit. Exceptions exist for cases involving ongoing coercion or institutional cover-ups. It is highly advisable to enlist the professional insights of an attorney to advise you based on California laws.
For over 20 years, Banafshe Law Firm, PC has been advocating for the rights of victims of sexual abuse and other personal injuries. If you have been sexually abused in Fresno, know that justice is within your reach. We have the experience and are confident you can obtain justice with professional legal representation. A Fresno sexual abuse attorney from our firm will investigate the case professionally to uncover liability. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation.