Frequently Asked Questions

Usually not. For abuse before 2024, California allows a claim until age 40 or within five years of discovering that adult injuries were caused by the abuse, whichever is later. For abuse on or after January 1, 2024, there is no deadline at all. See our page on deadlines.

No. A civil lawsuit is separate from any criminal case. You can bring a civil claim whether or not a police report was made and whether or not the abuser was ever charged or convicted.

In California, survivors of childhood sexual abuse can usually file as Jane Doe or John Doe, and we ask the court for protective orders so that identifying details stay out of public filings.

Nothing up front. We work on a contingency fee: no attorney fee and no costs unless we recover money for you. The percentage and terms are set out in a written agreement before any work begins.

Most cases settle without a trial. If a deposition is needed, it is scheduled around the child, kept as short as the law allows, and attended by counsel. We prepare families for every step and never surprise a survivor with a proceeding.

Yes. Districts are responsible when administrators hire carelessly, ignore warning signs, or fail to supervise. For childhood sexual abuse claims, the usual six-month government claim is not required (Gov. Code § 905(m)).

Schools must supervise students. When a peer-on-peer assault happens because staff left children unsupervised or ignored prior incidents, the district can be liable.

Both the district and the partner organization can be responsible. The district for what happens on its campus and under its contracts; the organization for how it screened, trained, and supervised its staff.

Every case is different. Many take more than a year, because school districts and their insurers move slowly, and cases that go to trial take longer. We give you a realistic timeline after the first investigation and keep you updated throughout.

Compensation for therapy and treatment, past and future medical care, educational support, and pain and suffering. Punitive damages may be available against individual abusers and private institutions, but not against public school districts.

Yes. Most survivors who file in California are adults. You do not need a parent involved. If you were abused as a student, in foster care, in juvenile detention, or in a youth program, you can call us directly.

You speak privately with an attorney. We listen, explain your options, and tell you honestly whether we think there is a case. Nothing is filed and nothing is shared without your permission. There is no charge for the call.