The crimes of rape and sexual assault are shockingly common, not only in California but also across the country. Unfortunately, however, they are too infrequently prosecuted. Even conversations surrounding these offenses remain difficult to begin and hard to hold. Survivors face potential stigmatization while also wrestling with the consequences they must live with daily.

Criminal prosecution of assault cases is not always possible, nor always pursued. However, that does not mean survivors are left without any recourse to seek an opportunity to rebuild their lives. By pursuing a civil lawsuit claim against an abuser or the organization responsible for allowing the assault to occur, survivors can seek compensation and attempt to find closure. The sexual assault attorneys in San Diego at HHJ Trial Attorneys, are devoted to advocating for survivor rights and using the full force of the law to go after those responsible.

The numbers, as reported by the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), are sobering. While the rate of sexual assault crimes has dropped dramatically in recent decades, very troubling trends persist. According to RAINN, one in every six women in America has had some experience with the crime of rape. A disturbing number of abuse crimes still involve children, with tens of thousands of cases every year — and unfortunately, few cases proceed to a trial and conviction. Civil lawsuits are often a major recourse for survivors.

First things first: the only party at fault in a case of sexual abuse is the abuser themselves. It is not your fault — and no one has a right to tell you otherwise. Our sexual assault attorneys in San Diego embrace survivors and puts their needs first, providing representation that seeks to avoid unnecessarily revisiting trauma. If you or a loved one have endured any form of assault or abuse, it is essential to remember to put personal healing at the forefront of your efforts. Leaving the legal side of things to a capable sexual assault lawyer in San Diego can help to lighten your load.

Additionally, it is important to know that the perpetrator of the crime is not the only party we can hold legally responsible. In some cases, that individual may not even be known. Employers and property owners also have a duty to prevent assaults, and in some cases, they may be the parties legally liable in a civil suit. As a survivor, it is critical to know and understand your rights.

California maintains a statute of limitations on civil lawsuits concerning sexual assault cases. Although lawmakers have sought to remove or weaken these laws, recent progress has been limited to extending the limitation and re-defining when the clock begins to run. California has also eliminated the criminal statute of limitations, meaning prosecutors can bring rape cases any time after they occur with sufficient evidence.

Under current California law, survivors have up to 10 years from the date of the most recent assault to act regarding their case. The law differs when crimes involve children. Speaking to an experienced sexual assault lawyer in San Diego acquainted with these laws can help you understand how and when to take the next steps.

Choosing to reclaim your life and to seek to hold someone responsible for what was done is a major step, and survivors deserve to have the best help they can get. At HHJ Trial Attorneys, we have a team of sexual assault attorneys in San Diego that are highly experienced with courtroom procedure and California law ready to provide you with a united front for an effective lawsuit. To learn more in a safe and respectful environment, please do not hesitate to contact our team today.