Sexual Assault Lawyer in California

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Why Choose Our Sexual Assault Law Firm in California?

At our California sexual assault law firm, we know that sexual assault cases are very personal and incredibly painful. Our sexual assault lawyers don’t just handle your case – we stand with you, listen to your story, and fight to hold the responsible parties accountable. You’re not just a file or a claim to us. You’re a person who deserves justice, respect, and support on every step of this challenging way. Our sexual assault attorneys work with care and strength to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you need to heal and move forward. When you choose us, you choose a lawyer for sexual assault that fights as if we’re standing up for our own.

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What Is Considered Sexual Assault Under California Law?

In California, sexual assault includes any unwanted sexual contact done without your consent. This can range from groping and forced touching to more severe acts like rape or attempted rape. It doesn’t have to be violent or leave physical injuries – if you didn’t give clear, voluntary agreement, it’s assault. The law recognizes that threats, pressure, or any form of coercion can take away your ability to freely say yes or no.

Sexual Assault vs. Rape vs. Sexual Misconduct:

Sexual assault is a broad term that covers any unwanted physical sexual contact. It can include acts like forced touching, molestation, or attempted rape. It’s treated as a crime and can also be the basis for a civil lawsuit.
Rape is a more specific type of sexual assault. It refers to non-consensual sexual intercourse – whether the victim is threatened, forced, unconscious, underage, or otherwise unable to consent. In California, intercourse without consent is rape regardless of the relationship between the parties.
Sexual misconduct is often used to describe a wider range of behaviors, like harassment, stalking, exploitation, or unwanted attention. Some acts under this category may not qualify as crimes but can still be addressed in civil court or workplace policies.

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Why You Need a Sexual Assault Lawyer

When you’ve been through something as devastating as sexual assault, the emotional toll alone can be overwhelming – and trying to handle the legal process on top of that isn’t something you should do alone. These cases are often met with silence, denial, and pressure from the other side. The at-fault party will get a sexual assault lawyer quickly, and their goal will be to protect themselves – not to make things right for you.

You may be hurting, exhausted, and just trying to get through the day – which makes it easy to feel pressured into taking a quick settlement that’s far less than what you actually deserve. That’s exactly why you need a clear-headed, fearless sexual assault lawyer who will take over the fight for you. You need a sexual assault victim lawyer who will stand up to intimidation, push back against every lowball offer, and make sure your pain is seen, heard, and compensated – fully and fairly.

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Common Types of Sexual Abuse and Assault Cases

Sexual harassment at work

Unwanted sexual comments, advances, or behavior in the workplace that create a hostile or unsafe environment.

Sexual abuse of a minor

Any sexual contact or exploitation involving a child under the age of 18.

Sexual battery

Intentional and unwanted touching of an intimate part of another person for sexual purposes.

Rape and date rape

Non-consensual sexual intercourse, whether by force, threat, or when the victim is unable to give consent due to drugs, alcohol, or unconsciousness.

Abuse by authority figures

When teachers, coaches, police officers, doctors, or others in positions of power exploit that trust to commit acts of sexual assault.

Clergy or institutional abuse

Sexual misconduct within religious institutions, schools, or other organizations, also involving cover-ups or long-term abuse.

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Who Can Be Held Liable in a Sexual Assault Case?

The Perpetrator. The individual who committed the assault is directly responsible and can face both criminal charges and civil lawsuits.
Employers. If the assault occurred within the scope of employment or the employer failed to prevent foreseeable harm, they might be liable. For example, this includes situations where the employer neglected to conduct proper background checks or ignored prior complaints about the employee.
Property Owners or Managers. Under premises liability laws, property owners can be held responsible if inadequate security or negligence contributed to the assault. For example, failure to provide sufficient lighting or security measures in areas known for criminal activity can lead to liability.
Educational Institutions. Schools and universities have a duty to protect students. If they fail to address known risks or neglect to implement adequate safety measures, they can be held accountable for assaults occurring on their premises.
Religious and Other Organizations. Organizations like churches or youth groups can be liable if they enable or fail to prevent abuse by their members or leaders. This includes situations where they were aware of misconduct and did not take appropriate action.
Third-Party Contractors or Vendors. Companies providing services, like security firms or event organizers, can be held liable if their negligence contributes to an assault. For example, inadequate security at an event leading to an assault can result in liability.

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What to Do If You’ve Been Sexually Assaulted in California

1. Get To a Safe Place

Get to a safe place to avoid more danger if possible. Whether that means going home, calling a friend, or getting to a public space – your safety is the priority.

2. Seek Medical Care

Even if you’re unsure about reporting, see a medical professional as soon as you can. Many hospitals have staff trained in caring for sexual assault survivors and collecting evidence. You don’t have to decide right away whether you want to press charges, but medical records and forensic evidence can be very important if you do.

3. Report the incident

If and when you’re ready, consider filing a police report. You have the right to speak up – no matter the circumstances. Note that signing a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) doesn’t prevent you from reporting a sexual assault to the police.

4. Preserve Evidence

Save any clothing, photos, or items from the incident that might be used as evidence, even if you haven’t reported yet. These materials can strengthen both criminal and civil cases.

5. Talk To a Sexual Abuse Lawyer

You do not need to report to the police to file a civil claim. A sexual abuse lawyer can help you understand your legal options and protect you from pressure to accept less than you deserve. Many survivors start this process feeling powerless – but with strong legal support, they often learn they can fight back and win.

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Compensation Available for Sexual Assault Victims

Medical treatment. Covers any past, current, and future medical care needed as a result of the assault, including emergency care, surgeries, and follow-up treatments.
Psychological support. Includes therapy, counseling, and other mental health services, needed both now or in the future.
Lost income. If the trauma has impacted your ability to work - temporarily or permanently - you may be compensated for wages you’ve already lost or will lose.
Emotional and mental distress. This covers the invisible wounds - anxiety, depression, PTSD, and the emotional weight that continues to affect your life long after the incident.

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How to File a Sexual Assault Lawsuit in California

Filing a sexual assault lawsuit in California is a right step toward justice – but it can also be challenging and complicated if you’re doing it alone. The process starts by speaking with a sexual assault attorney who understands these cases and knows how to protect your rights. From there, your attorney will gather all the necessary evidence, work with medical and mental health professionals, and file a civil complaint against all the at-fault parties involved.

If the assault involved a workplace, school, religious group, or property owner, they may also be named in the lawsuit. While you focus on more important things like healing and recovery, your sexual assault attorney fights to hold them accountable – and pushes for full compensation for everything you’ve endured. You don’t need to go through this alone. With the right legal support, you can stand up, speak out, and be heard.

Have You Been Injured in an Accident?

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Contact The Law Office of Brent D. Rawlings’ Sexual Assault Attorneys

If you’ve been sexually assaulted, The Law Office of Brent D. Rawlings is here to fight for you. We understand how deeply personal, painful, and life-changing these experiences are – and we don’t take them lightly. You are not just a case to us. You’re a person who deserves to be heard, believed, and protected. While the other side may try to silence you or pressure you to settle for less, we stand strong.

Our sexual assault attorneys pursue justice fearlessly, just like we do for every survivor we represent. Whether you need a bicycle accident lawyer, truck accident lawyer, catastrophic injury lawyer, burn injury lawyer, or personal injury lawyer, we have the experience to hold wrongdoers accountable. Contact us now for a free, fully confidential consultation – and let’s take the first step together.

TESTIMONIALS

Sexual Assault Attorney Services Reviews

Ujjwal D.

23:57 21 May 25

I was referred to Mr. Rawlings by another attorney after he felt that Mr. Rawlings’ firm would be best suited for my case. Prior to contacting Mr. Rawlings, I was told that my case-a rental car malfunctioning issue that caused painful burn wounds to my arm and almost missed maiming my wife and I—wasn’t strong. Mr. Rawlings and his staff agreed to take up my case and patiently navigated all the challenges and intimately got me a settlement from a major car rental chain. I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. Compensation is not everything and it does not erase the pain and suffering. But how your case should be handled to get a desired reasonable and favorable outcome is what I was impressed with Mr. Rawlings. I highly recommend him.

Kyle S.

18:44 24 Apr 25

This right here is the way you treat your clients after having such a bad experience with my former attorney, Brett along with his assistant have made this so painless he took a chance on me when there was nobody that would and I’m so glad I found him when I did I had almost lost hope! But with his kindness and guidance I was able to settle for my car accident and he has just been an all over nice guy it’s hard to find anyone as genuine as him and his team!!! If your looking for someone to help you through your case please contact if you want it to be painless please contact if you want someone who cares about his clients please contact you will not regret picking him to fight for you … thank you Brett and team for doing this in a timely manner and cleaning up the mess that the former attorney made I know it was not fun but you are appreciated-Kyle

John B.

01:51 18 Apr 25

Brent and Cami are very professional and did a great job for my wife and I. We received well above the amount the insurance company originally offered. We would highly recommend anyone to utilize the services of Brent Rawlings.

Yasmeena C.

20:07 09 Apr 25

Brent was very helpful despite the complicated circumstances of my case and the tight deadlines that we had, but despite all of the issues he still came through with getting me SOMETHING to show for years of mental hardship and financial stress. Even though we didn’t get as much as we hoped, Brent definitely helped me more than any lawyer I had worked with before and I definitely recommend Brent if you want someone who will keep you in the loop.Cami/Maria the paralegal was also amazing and so helpful with explaining everything!

Matthew H.

14:53 18 Mar 25

Brent and Cami did a great job representing me in my case. Their communication was excellent. When I would send an email, the would respond within minutes. I was very happy with the outcome that they achieved. Brent was recommended by a personal friend and I am very glad that they did.

Samara V Guatzin P.

16:05 11 Mar 25

Excellent lawyer. I solved my injury problem. With a good result! 100% recommended!!! 👏🏻👏🏻

Jennifer S.

00:02 11 Feb 25

What an amazing trusting team Brent and Cami!!! I had an incident in California and I live in Montana. I’ve never met either of them but their professionalism was amazing. The communication and actually feeling like they cared was beyond my expectations. I was more than a client I was a person. I would recommend them to anyone seeking legal counsel for a personal injury. I hope one day to meet them both in person to thank them personally. Thank you so much Brent and Cami.

Martin B.

19:45 09 Feb 25

Excellent attorney! Brent is a thorough, sharp, and very knowledgeable attorney. I would not to hesitate to recommend to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney.

María Paula P.

16:58 09 Feb 25

Great lawyer! I worked with him, and I highly recommend him. His ethics and the way he cares for his clients are truly unique.

Paulina E.

02:25 28 Jan 25

Brent and Cami are the best!! I felt lost and had so many questions. From the moment they took my case, they were both so proactive and attentive. I’m beyond glad I chose Brent to handle my case. Brent proved to be an invaluable support. He was very knowledgeable, dedicated and thorough in his approach. He made sure I understood all my options and got the best possible care. If you need an Attorney who truly cares about his clients, look no further!

Olivia S.

21:26 14 Jan 25

Brent and Cami are absolute sharks and relentless advocates who fight tirelessly on your behalf. From start to finish, their legal team made me feel like a human being, not just another case. They took the time to truly understand me and my family, which brought a personal touch to their already exceptional expertise.Throughout the entire process, they were absolute superstars in communication—always keeping me informed and ensuring I understood every step. Their dedication and compassion are unmatched, and I genuinely feel like I’ve gained lifelong friends in the process.Although I hope I never require legal support again, I am thrilled to have Brent and Cami as a resource for the future. If you’re looking for a legal team that is not only skilled but also genuinely cares about you as a person, I cannot recommend Brent and Cami highly enough.

Derek Z.

01:04 14 Dec 24

Can not say enough accolades about Brent and Cami. Both have been very professional, attentive, and so caring regarding my wife Rosette’s PI case. Through the years, we’ve had several attorneys representing us, but none, except for Brent, would call on weekends to just talk.Never in a million years did I ever expect we would be awarded the maximum amount from our insurance policy. But somehow Brent accomplished the impossible, and for that, we are beyond grateful. Continued success to you Brent, you’re simply the best!!!

Normary P.

04:08 28 Nov 24

Highly recommend calling Brent!! I got into an accident about 2 weeks ago, and Brent has been providing the best guidance and helping so much in dealing with my insurance. He’s extremely responsive, always professional, and follows through on everything he says. Brent helps make a stressful situation feel a lot more manageable. Thanks for all of your help, Brent!!

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FAQs About Sexual Assault Attorney Services

If you’re thinking about working with a lawyer, it’s important that you find the right one.

How to Report Sexual Assault?

To report sexual assault in California, you can contact your local police department or call 911 if you’re in immediate danger. You can also speak with a sexual assault crisis center or hospital, where staff can help you report the incident and collect evidence. If you’re unsure, a sex abuse lawyer can help you with the legal aspect of your case.

How Long Do You Have to Report Sexual Assault?

Under California’s AB 218, survivors of sexual assault can file a civil lawsuit until age 40 or within five years of discovering a psychological injury related to the assault. This law also created a special three-year window allowing previously time-barred claims to be filed. Criminal reporting deadlines may differ, so it’s important to speak with a sex abuse attorney as soon as possible.

Can I Sue for Emotional Distress After a Sexual Assault?

You can sue for emotional distress after a sexual assault in California. Civil claims may include damages for mental anguish, anxiety, PTSD, and other long-term emotional effects caused by the assault.

What Compensation Can a Sexual Assault Victim Lawyer Help Me Recover?

A sexual abuse law firm can help you recover compensation for medical bills, therapy costs, lost wages, emotional distress, and pain and suffering. In some cases, you may also be entitled to punitive damages meant to punish the offender. Your sexual abuse law firm will work to make sure every part of your trauma is accounted for.

How Long Does a Sexual Assault Lawsuit Typically Take in California?

The length of a sexual assault lawsuit in California varies a lot, but most cases take anywhere from several months to a few years, depending on complexity, evidence, and whether it settles or goes to trial. Cases with institutions or multiple parties may take longer. An experienced sexual assault law firm can give you a clearer timeline.

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(888)807-7123

Email:

Info@ourclientswin.com

Main office:

15615 Alton Pkwy. Suite 450, Irvine, CA 92618

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