Experienced Sexual Abuse Attorneys Serving Clients in the San Francisco Area
Sexual abuse in any form is an assault. It victimizes survivors, causing lasting physical and emotional harm and lasting psychological and emotional damage. When this occurs, it is important to seek help from a San Francisco Sexual Abuse Lawyer.
Victims of sexual abuse have a right to financial compensation under state law for the trauma they have endured. Although a verdict or settlement cannot change the past, it can help survivors regain their lives.
If you or someone you love has been sexually abused in any way, it is essential to seek the advice of an experienced California sexual abuse lawyer. The skilled and compassionate attorneys at Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger have more than 50 years of success in gaining justice for sexual abuse survivors. Contact a member of our team for a free and confidential case evaluation.
What is Sexual Abuse?
Sexual abuse is any sexual act committed against another individual without consent—either because the perpetrator forcibly imposes sexual behavior or because the victim is legally incapable of giving consent, as in the case of a minor. Non-physical acts can also be abusive, such as exposing an adult or child to pornography, photographing or sexually filming adults or children without their consent, or grooming them for sexual activity.
Sexual Abuse of Our Most Vulnerable Citizens
Members of our most vulnerable populations, like children, disabled individuals, and the elderly, are sometimes harmed by the very institutions we trust to protect and care for them, such as daycare centers, schools, churches, camps, kids’ clubs, hospitals, and nursing homes. Teachers, ministers, caregivers, or authority figures may misuse their position to commit abuse. Offensive conduct has been carried out by religious, educational, and sports organizations that have made national and international news. Some have hit close to home, including multiple suits and allegations against local schools.
The Tragic Numbers
According to statistics from the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, one in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually abused before they turn 18 years old. Yet only 12% of child sex abuse cases are reported to authorities. Elders are also victims of sexual abuse. 70% of reported elder abuse occurs in nursing homes, but only 30% of victims report it. If your child has experienced sexual abuse in any way shape or form, call our San Francisco child sexual abuse attorneys.
Research from the University of Michigan estimates that over 90% of people with developmental disabilities will experience sexual assault in their lifetime. According to Justice Department data on sex crimes, individuals with intellectual disabilities are sexually assaulted at a rate more than seven times higher than non-disabled people. Our San Francisco sexual abuse lawyer is a dedicated advocate who provides support, guidance, and legal expertise to help survivors seek justice and healing.
Seeking Justice in Sexual Abuse Cases
People who have suffered sexual abuse can feel paralyzed and powerless. They may be burdened with feelings of shame, guilt, or responsibility; fear of not being believed; shock and other trauma responses; conditioning by the perpetrator; disability; and sometimes, a lack of understanding that they’ve experienced abuse.
The sooner the victim (or loved one who recognizes signs of abuse) reports abuse to authorities and seeks legal counsel, the sooner the case can proceed. California law, AB 218, which took effect on January 1, 2020, allows victims of childhood sexual abuse to file a lawsuit until they are 40 years of age or up to five years after they discover the psychological trauma they’ve suffered is due to abuse. It’s also important to understand California’s statute of limitations in sexual assault and abuse.
Why You Need a Northern California Sexual Abuse Attorney at Walkup Law
If you are a victim of sexual abuse, you have the right to sue for damages. We can help you recover the medical costs of physical and psychological recovery, pain and suffering, lost income, and other losses resulting from your abuse.
Bay Area Sexual Abuse attorneys will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation into the abuse you experienced
- Ensure that all paperwork is completed and meets court deadlines
- Develop a strategy for the prosecution of your claim
- Manage negotiations with the perpetrator’s legal team and insurers
- Take your case to trial if a fair settlement is not reached
Empower Your Journey to Justice with a San Francisco Sexual Abuse Lawyer
At Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger, we understand the devastating impact of sexual abuse. We are fierce and tireless advocates for survivors. There is no fee unless we recover money on your behalf. We want to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve so you can move forward with your healing.
