San Rafael Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Survivors of sexual abuse struggle with the emotional fallout for years and often for the rest of their lives. In addition to that emotional distress experienced, victims also typically sustain at least some form of physical injury. Sexual abuse is a very serious crime in California and although criminal punishments can bring some type of closure to victims, they still deserve civil damages that can help with their injuries and other losses. If you have been the victim of sexual abuse, a San Rafael sexual abuse lawyer can help you secure the damages you deserve.

A criminal conviction for sexual abuse comes with a number of serious consequences, such as high fines and jail time. Under California law, a misdemeanor offense will carry up to six months in jail and a maximum $2,000 fine. A conviction for a felonious sexual abuse offense carries a penalty of up to one year in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000. Although these penalties are warranted, they do nothing for the victims of the sexual abuse.

To recover compensation for injuries suffered as a result of sexual abuse, survivors will have to file a civil claim. Damages in civil claims can include compensation for medical costs, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. In some cases, the court may also award punitive damages when the act is particularly egregious.

Sexual abuse is often obvious when it occurs, but there are times when it appears in much subtler ways. Some common types of sexual abuse that can give rise to a claim are as follows:

• Photographing someone or distributing sexual photos or videos without the consent of the subject of the material.
• Making unwanted sexual requests.
• Forcing someone to expose themselves, or exposing genitals to someone without their consent.
• Oral sex performed on someone without consent.
• Forcing another person to watch pornographic videos or look at pornographic pictures.

When any of these types of sexual abuse occur, or any other, people often feel powerless against their abuser. It is critical that all survivors of sexual abuse understand that they are not powerless and that they can take action against their abuser with the help of a sexual abuse attorney in San Rafael.

Sexual abuse does occur between strangers, but it is more common for people to abuse other people that they know fairly well. Members of the clergy, counselors, coaches, and teachers are some of the most trusted members of the community, but they are also some of the most common defendants in sexual abuse cases.

Due to the fact that perpetrators of sexual abuse are often people survivors trust, they sometimes do not want to come forward with their accusations. Although these are some of the most challenging sexual abuse cases, it is still important for survivors to come forward so their perpetrator can be held accountable.

No one should ever become the victim of sexual abuse, but if you have experienced it, a sexual abuse attorney in San Rafael can help. At Brod Law Firm, our compassionate attorneys can guide you through the personal injury process and give you the best chance at securing the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (800) 427-7020 or contact us online to schedule a free case evaluation.