Irvine Sexual Abuse Lawyer

At Wilshire Law Firm, we stand with survivors of sexual abuse, offering not only legal skills but also the compassion and care they need during one of the most difficult times of their lives. We recognize that seeking justice after enduring such a traumatic experience can feel overwhelming, but we are here to support and guide survivors every step of the way.

Our mission is to advocate, help you reclaim your power, and pursue justice with determination and sensitivity. We encourage survivors to reach out to one of our compassionate Irvine sexual abuse lawyers to discuss their options and allow us to fight for justice on their behalf.

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Survivors, Not Victims: Reclaiming Power

At Wilshire Law Firm, we use the word “survivor” to honor the strength and resilience of those who have endured sexual abuse. Survivors deserve recognition for their bravery, and our legal team is dedicated to amplifying their voices.

We believe everyone has the right to speak their truth, confront their abusers, and hold them accountable in a court of law. Our attorneys are committed to empowering survivors throughout the legal process.

Understanding Sexual Abuse: A Broad Spectrum of Harm

According to the California Department of Public Health, over one in three women and one in four men have reported experiencing sexual violence that involved physical contact at some point in their lives. On a national scale, it’s estimated that around 23 million women have faced either completed or attempted rape during their lifetime. However, these statistics only scratch the surface, as many instances of sexual violence are never reported.

Sexual abuse can occur in many forms, affecting both adults and children, and no two experiences are the same. The range of behaviors that constitute sexual abuse can include unwanted touching, assault, exploitation, harassment, and manipulation. Survivors may have encountered abuse in various environments, including homes, schools, religious institutions, or the workplace. Some common types of sexual abuse include:

• Child Sexual Abuse: This devastating form of abuse includes molestation, grooming, exploitation, and trafficking. Often, the abuser is someone in a position of trust, such as a family member, teacher, or religious leader. Children are particularly vulnerable, and the lifelong impact of this abuse can be profound.
• Adult Sexual Abuse: Adults can be survivors of sexual assault, harassment, and abuse in various settings, including the workplace, at home, or in social situations. This abuse often involves individuals in positions of power, leaving survivors feeling isolated and powerless.
• Institutional Abuse: Abuse that occurs within schools, churches, or other organizations is especially heartbreaking, as these are spaces meant to provide safety and care. When those in authority fail to protect individuals or actively contribute to the harm, they must be held accountable.

Men and Sexual Abuse: An Overlooked Reality

While conversations about sexual abuse often focus on women, men also experience sexual abuse, though their stories are frequently overlooked. Society’s perceptions of masculinity and stereotypes can create barriers for male survivors, making it harder for them to come forward or seek help.

Studies reveal that one in four men will experience sexual violence involving physical contact during their lifetime. However, this figure is likely an underestimation, as many men face stigma, shame, or disbelief when trying to report their abuse. These social pressures can cause male survivors to suffer in silence, feeling isolated and unsupported.

Sexual abuse against men can happen in various contexts, including within families, institutions, or workplaces. It is not limited by age, background, or circumstance. Men may face abuse from individuals in positions of authority or trust, similar to women, and the emotional and psychological impact is just as profound.

No one should feel ashamed or embarrassed to speak out about their abuse. Whether you are a man or a woman, sexual abuse is a violation of your dignity and rights. At Wilshire Law Firm, we stand by all survivors, regardless of gender, and are here to help you on your path to justice.

How a Compassionate Lawyer Can Help

For survivors of sexual abuse, having a compassionate and skilled Irvine personal injury lawyer by your side can make all the difference. At Wilshire Law Firm, we understand this is more than just a legal case; it is about reclaiming your life and seeking justice. Our attorneys are here to:

• Provide Emotional Support: We recognize that the emotional toll of sexual abuse can be overwhelming. Our sexual abuse attorneys approach each case with empathy, ensuring you feel supported throughout the legal process. We aim to reduce the stress and anxiety that often accompanies legal proceedings, giving you the space to heal while we handle the legal complexities.
• Advocate for Justice: Our firm is relentless in the pursuit of justice. We will work tirelessly to hold your abuser accountable and ensure that the legal system treats your case with the seriousness it deserves. We also pursue claims against institutions that failed to protect you or contributed to the harm.
• Navigate the Legal Process: Sexual abuse cases can be legally complex, especially when they involve institutions or third-party liability. Our attorneys have extensive experience navigating the legal system and will handle every aspect of your case, from gathering evidence to negotiating settlements or pursuing a trial. You can trust that we will fight for the best possible outcome.
• Seek Compensation for Damages: While no amount of money can undo the harm caused by sexual abuse, financial compensation can help provide a sense of justice and aid in the healing process. Damages in sexual abuse cases may cover medical bills, therapy costs, lost wages, and emotional suffering. We focus on the broader goal of securing justice for you, and financial compensation is one way to hold perpetrators accountable.

The Healing Process and Legal Action

For many Irvine sexual abuse survivors, legal action represents a vital step in the healing process. It offers an opportunity to reclaim control and confront those responsible for the abuse. Working with a compassionate lawyer ensures survivors do not have to navigate this challenging path alone. At Wilshire Law Firm, we handle the legal complexities so that you can focus on your emotional and physical recovery.

We understand that taking legal action can feel intimidating, especially when dealing with the trauma of abuse. Our attorneys work closely with survivors, offering legal counsel, emotional support, and encouragement. We will guide you through each stage of the process, ensuring your rights are protected and your voice is heard.

What to Expect During a Sexual Abuse Case

Sexual abuse cases can be lengthy and complicated, but knowing what to expect can ease some of the stress. At Wilshire Law Firm, we prioritize transparency and communication, keeping you informed every step of the way. The typical process includes:

• Initial Consultation: During this confidential meeting, our attorneys will listen to your story, gather preliminary information, and discuss the potential legal options available to you.
• Investigation: Our team will conduct a thorough investigation, collecting evidence such as medical records, witness statements, and other documentation necessary to build a strong case.
• Filing the Lawsuit: Once the evidence has been gathered, we will file a civil lawsuit on your behalf against the abuser and any responsible institutions.
• Negotiation or Trial: Many cases settle outside of court through negotiations. However, we are prepared to take the case to trial to ensure justice is served.

Whether through a settlement or a trial verdict, we will work to ensure you receive the compensation and justice you deserve. Your well-being and privacy are our top priorities throughout the process.

Trauma-Informed Legal Representation

At Wilshire Law Firm, we understand the profound emotional impact that sexual abuse has on survivors. Our Irvine sexual abuse attorneys are trained to provide trauma-informed legal representation, meaning that we approach each case with sensitivity to the psychological effects of trauma.

We avoid re-traumatization by ensuring our legal process is respectful, patient, and attuned to your emotional needs. This approach means that we will never rush you, push you into uncomfortable situations, or make you relive the trauma unnecessarily. We are here to support your healing journey, not to exacerbate the pain.

Empowerment Through Legal Advocacy

We believe survivors should feel empowered by the legal process, not overwhelmed by it. Pursuing legal action can be an empowering step, allowing survivors to reclaim their voice, confront their abuser, and hold those responsible accountable.

By taking legal action, survivors not only seek justice for themselves but also contribute to broader societal change, helping prevent future abuse and protect others. At Wilshire Law Firm, we proudly stand with survivors as their legal advocates and partners in their fight for justice.

Legal Rights of Sexual Abuse Survivors in California

California has enacted several laws to protect survivors of sexual abuse and provide them with the legal avenues needed to seek justice. Some of the most important laws include:

• Extended Statute of Limitations: California has extended the statute of limitations for survivors of childhood sexual abuse, allowing survivors to file lawsuits up until the age of 40, or within five years of discovering the abuse. This law acknowledges that it often takes years for survivors to come to terms with the trauma and seek legal recourse.
• Civil and Criminal Remedies: Survivors can seek both civil and criminal remedies. Even if the perpetrator is not criminally prosecuted, survivors can pursue a civil lawsuit to hold them financially accountable for the harm caused.

At Wilshire Law Firm, we have a deep understanding of California’s sexual abuse laws and will ensure that your rights are fully protected throughout the legal process.

The Role of Evidence in Sexual Abuse Cases

Building a strong sexual abuse case often requires gathering substantial evidence. Our legal team will assist in collecting and preserving all necessary documentation to support your claim, including:

• Medical Records: Medical evidence, such as records of physical injuries or mental health treatment, can be crucial in proving the abuse and its impact on the survivor.
• Witness Testimony: If others witnessed the abuse or the surrounding circumstances, their statements can strengthen your case.
• Psychological Evidence: Therapy and counseling records can help demonstrate the emotional and psychological toll of the abuse, which is critical for seeking damages related to pain and suffering.

At Wilshire Law Firm, we handle the complexities of evidence gathering, so you can focus on your healing and recovery.

How Wilshire Law Firm Helps Irvine Survivors Seek Justice in Civil and Criminal Courts

It is important to understand the difference between civil and criminal cases in sexual abuse matters. The state pursues criminal cases to punish the offender, while survivors bring civil cases to seek compensation and hold the abuser financially responsible.

At Wilshire Law Firm, we focus on civil lawsuits, allowing survivors to seek justice even if the perpetrator is not criminally convicted. We also work in tandem with criminal investigations where necessary, ensuring that survivors are represented comprehensively in both courts.

Wilshire Law Firm is proud to be a powerhouse legal team that prioritizes the needs of our clients. We understand that survivors of sexual abuse need more than just legal representation—they need a team that will advocate for their rights, provide emotional support, and seek the justice they deserve. With over $1 billion recovered for our clients, we are committed to delivering results.

Contact a Trusted Advocate in Your Fight for Justice

If you or a loved one has been affected by sexual abuse, contact Wilshire Law Firm today. Our attorneys are here to listen, support, and advocate for you. We will help you reclaim your power and pursue justice with determination. Whether your case involves individual perpetrators or large institutions, we will fight relentlessly for justice.

Choosing the right lawyer is crucial when seeking justice after enduring sexual abuse. Wilshire Law Firm has a proven track record of standing up for survivors and holding abusers accountable. Our team of compassionate attorneys is dedicated to ensuring survivors have the support they need throughout the legal process.

Contact Wilshire Law Firm today for a free consultation. We represent sexual abuse survivors in Irvine and throughout California. Call our home office at 213-335-2402, or contact us online.

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Wilshire Law Firm – Irvine Office

15707 Rockfield Blvd STE 250
Irvine, CA 92618

Ph: (949) 868-4036