How To File a Child Sexual Abuse Lawsuit in Los Angeles

If you are a parent, there is likely nothing you would not do to protect your children from harm. That is what makes it so emotionally challenging when you find out that your child is a potential victim of sexual abuse by a once-trusted adult. Our seasoned child sex abuse attorneys at The Cifarelli Law Firm understand your anger and confusion and could provide the support you need while we seek justice on your behalf.

Our team could advise you on how to file a child sexual abuse lawsuit in Los Angeles. We advocate for victims and their families all over Southern California and could help you hold the abusers accountable for their actions. Contact us today to get started.

What Can Parents Do To Protect Their Kids?

Sexual abuse can happen at school, at community events, in youth organizations, and just about anywhere. Sadly, it can continue for months or even years without detection, as children are too young to understand that what is happening to them is wrong or are too embarrassed to speak up.

The best thing that parents can do is be aware of the warning signs of potential abuse. Sudden changes in personality, unexplained bruises or other injuries, and a fear of going to certain places or being with certain people are all indicators that something is not right.

Although there might be many causes for these developments, you should begin documenting your suspicions. Taking notes of the dates and times you first started to notice anything, along with details about what you saw, could be helpful in spotting patterns. Similarly, pictures you take of any physical injuries could later serve as evidence if you file an underage sexual abuse claim in Los Angeles.

How Do You File a Civil Claim?

While sexual abuse of a minor is a crime that the Los Angeles police and state prosecutors handle, you and your family also have the right to pursue a civil case. Unlike a criminal matter, which focuses on punishing the abuser, a civil claim focuses on remedying the harm the victim suffered.

Typically, the first step in this process is to meet with an attorney and evaluate the situation. Criminal charges are not a prerequisite for a civil lawsuit. The next step is to determine the appropriate parties. While abuse typically occurs at the hands of a single person, others could share responsibility. A school, for example, must have adequate safeguards in place to protect children, such as proper supervision of employees and suitable hiring practices. Similarly, if supervisors or other people in authority knew or had reason to believe that abuse was taking place but did nothing about it, or worse, tried to conceal it, the court might hold the organization accountable.

Filing the claim is the start of a lengthy process where both sides gather evidence, provide statements, and present their side of the story to the court. Sometimes a settlement can resolve matters, while other times the case proceeds to trial.

Speak With an Attorney About Filing a Child Sexual Abuse Case in Los Angeles

Discovering your child is a victim of sexual abuse is devastating for any parent. However, you do have some legal options at your disposal. You may be able to pursue a civil claim against the abuser and anyone else responsible for harming your child. If you have questions about how to file a child sexual abuse lawsuit in Los Angeles, call The Cifarelli Law Firm today to speak with one of our lawyers.