We trust doctors to act responsibly as medical caregivers for our children. However, that same trust can enable doctors to use their position and power to commit abuse. The harm may be permanent and impact all areas of a child’s life well into their adult years. If you or your child experienced abuse, you have a right to seek compensation in a civil lawsuit.
Our seasoned healthcare sexual abuse attorneys at The Cifarelli Law Firm have been helping children and their families for over 25 years in their pursuit of compensation for child sexual abuse by doctors in Los Angeles. We support our clients through dedicated advocacy and a commitment to pursuing accountability. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and learn how we can support your family.
Child sexual abuse may include several acts, including showing a child explicit images, talking to the child about sexually explicit topics, and performing sexual acts involving the child or in the child’s presence.
Signs of child sexual abuse can be difficult to identify, especially in cases involving a doctor in Los Angeles. One indication may be when a healthcare provider does not allow a parent to accompany their child into the examination room. Every case is unique, but signs a child might exhibit after sexual abuse could include one or more of the following:
You can also look for physical signs of abuse from sexual contact, including bleeding, bruising, or infection. The California Code of Civil Procedure § 340.1 expressly states there is no time limit for filing a claim against a party liable for childhood sexual assault. However, plaintiffs over the age of 40 must file additional certificates of merit with the help of an attorney and a licensed mental health professional. Our attorneys could discuss your child’s rights as soon as you become aware of any sexual abuse by a medical practitioner.
Filing a civil case against a Los Angeles doctor could allow you to recover compensation for the damages resulting from sexual assault as a minor. The healthcare institution where the doctor worked may also be liable in a civil case if it acted in a way that enabled or allowed the sexual abuse to occur. For example, liability could arise in cases where a healthcare institution failed to investigate prior complaints of child sexual abuse from other patients or hired a doctor with a history of abuse at prior employers.
A broad range of damages can apply under Cal. Civ, Code § 3281. You may have a right to compensation for financial damages, including costs for medical care and therapy, or any lost future income from being unable to work. The physical and mental consequences are difficult to measure financially, but compensation may be available for the impact abuse has on your life. A claim for punitive damages may also apply, which acts as punishment for the guilty party and as a deterrent to potential abusers.
The Cifarelli Law Firm is here to help you and your loved ones get the support you need. Child sexual abuse by doctors in Los Angeles is a serious issue that may involve individual healthcare providers as well as institutions that fail to prevent misconduct. By meeting with our experienced attorneys, you may be able to pursue a claim for compensation against the responsible parties. Contact our office today to schedule a free case consultation.
If you or your child has been a victim, talk to an Irvine child sexual abuse lawyer at The Cifarelli Law Firm. Our team is passionate about advocating for victims and helping them seek justice. We understand this is a difficult situation, and we strive to create a place where victims from all over California can feel safe and heard. Call The Cifarelli Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation.
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