Sexual Abuse
Handled with care, discretion, and belief.
These are among the most personal matters our firm handles, and we approach them accordingly. Survivors are heard, believed, and protected here — and communication preferences can be discussed, although legal deadlines may constrain the pace of a case.
What it means
Institutional sexual abuse, handled with care.
Claims may be brought against institutions alleged to have enabled or failed to prevent abuse, depending on the facts and applicable law. California's AB 218 affected limitation periods for certain claims; whether it applies to a particular claim depends on its circumstances.
Institution
An organization that had responsibility for the survivor's safety.
Notice
What the institution knew — or should have known — and failed to act on.
Confidentiality
Survivors may proceed under a pseudonym; privacy is a first priority.
Matters we handle
Focused matters within this practice.
Each page below is written in plain language — the background, what's known, the injuries reported, and where the case currently stands.
Do I have a case?
A quick, honest self-check.
If most of these describe your situation, it's worth a phone call — even if the answer is that we're not the right firm for you.
You are ready — on your own timeline — to have an initial conversation.
You can identify the institution and approximate time period.
Records, witnesses, or prior complaints may support the case.
You would like to understand your options with no obligation.
Understand the process before sharing sensitive records
Civil claims and criminal proceedings are separate. Potential claims against an institution depend on its role and the applicable law; an affiliation alone does not establish liability. Timing rules vary, particularly for older allegations and public entities.
- Start with approximate dates, locations, and the organization involved, if known.
- Preserve existing messages or participation records without contacting the accused to obtain evidence.
- Ask about confidentiality limits, sensitive record requests, and who may receive information.
- Missing records or the absence of a police report do not alone determine whether a civil claim is possible.
Frequently asked
Questions answered plainly.
Free · Confidential · No obligation
Not sure if you have a case? Start with a conversation.
Tell us what happened, at your pace. We'll listen, answer honestly, and — if we can help — begin quietly, right away.