Los Angeles Sexual Assault Lawyer
Request Free ConsultationIn California, victims of sexual assault can pursue justice through a civil case as well as a criminal case. Civil claims involving sexual violence are about much more than monetary compensation; they are often the only way for victims to hold the perpetrator accountable, achieve some measure of closure, and help prevent similar things from happening to someone else. If you or a loved one was a victim of sexual assault, the injury lawyers in Los Angeles at Panish | Shea | Ravipudi LLP can help.
Our sexual assault attorneys are trauma-informed advocates and have significant experience in representing victims of sexual assault and other forms of sexual violence. We want victims of sexual assault and their loved ones to know their legal options following an attack and how to move forward emotionally and financially.
We Have Secured MILLIONS In Sexual Assault Settlements And Verdicts
Meet Your Team Of Los Angeles Sexual Assault Attorneys
At Panish | Shea | Ravipudi LLP, we understand the level of trust you are putting into us when handling a Los Angeles sexual assault case, and we take that responsibility extremely seriously. Not only are we representing you or a loved one, but we are also fighting for all those who have ever been a victim.
Don’t hesitate to call or contact one of our experienced Los Angeles sexual assault attorneys to discuss your case, deliver justice, and start the road towards healing.
Why You Need A Skilled Sexual Assault Civil Litigator
While the state’s prosecutors focus on punishing the offender through the criminal justice system, a skilled civil attorney focuses entirely on your recovery, your rights, and your financial security.
Understanding the difference between these two paths is crucial:
The Criminal Case: Handled by the government, this process focuses on proving guilt and securing a sentence or prison time for the offender. It rarely provides financial recovery for the survivor.
The Civil Claim: Handled by your private attorney, this action seeks to hold both the perpetrator and any negligent third parties (such as employers, schools, or property owners) financially accountable. A successful civil claim secures compensation for your medical bills, therapy costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
You do not have to navigate this journey alone. Contact Panish | Shea | Ravipudi LLP in Los Angeles today to schedule a free, fully confidential consultation with an experienced advocate who will listen to your story and explain your options.
Types Of Sexual Assault Our Attorneys Specialize In
Sexual assault is a devastating form of violence that affects thousands of individuals every single year, regardless of age, gender, sexuality, and race. While thousands of cases are officially reported annually in the Los Angeles area, the true scale of this crisis is tragically much larger, as a vast number of sexual assaults go entirely unreported due to fear, shame, or trauma.
Under California law, sexual assault generally refers to any sexual contact or behavior that occurs without the victim’s explicit consent. Some examples include:
- Rape
- Date Rape
- Celebrity Misconduct
- Sex Trafficking
- Medical Profession Sexual Abuse
- Inadequate Security
- Sexual Abus
- Sexual Harassment
- Uber Sexual Assault
- Child Sexual Abuse
- Sexual Exploitation
- Institutional Abuse
- And more
If you have been a victim of any of these or similar forms of assault, don’t hesitate to call for a free and confidential case evaluation to bring your perpetrator to justice.
How Long Do You Have To File A Sexual Assault Claim In California?
Although the “statute of limitations” for sexual assault crimes and civil litigation is complex, California has enacted significant reforms designed to give survivors adequate time to step forward and pursue legal accountability. The rules governing these timelines differ considerably depending on how old you were when the assault occurred and the specific details surrounding it. This is why it is always imperative to speak with a sexual assault attorney and to never assume your window for filing has closed.
What Damages Are Available In A Los Angeles Sexual Assault Claim?
In addition to criminal cases, sexual assault victims can pursue justice and compensation through a civil claim. In California, anyone who has been a victim of sexual violence or assault may file a civil claim for damages, even in the absence of a criminal conviction or a police report. In certain cases, the families of victims may be eligible to file. Victims may be eligible for compensation for:
- Medical expenses. The victim can sue for the cost of necessary medical treatment resulting from the sexual assault. This may also apply to the cost of necessary ongoing psychological counseling or other forms of treatment.
- Lost income. If a sexual assault incident prevents a victim from working for an extended time or causes the victim to leave a job, the victim can sue for the wages lost as a result.
- Pain and suffering. California law recognizes that the experience of sexual assault is traumatic and often leads to long-term psychological difficulties. The law allows victims to sue for their mental anguish, physical pain, and emotional distress.
- Punitive damages. The court will often dictate punitive damages for offenders who engage in intentionally harmful or egregiously negligent behaviors to dissuade similar behaviors in the future. The amount of punitive damages recoverable typically depends on the offender’s financial state.
Our Los Angeles sexual abuse lawyers know that financial verdicts and settlements are not the ultimate goal in a case like this, but we hope similar results can help you focus on healing and moving forward.
We Are Proud To Have Been Featured In
Steps To Take After a Sexual Assault
If you or a loved one has recently experienced a sexual assault, your immediate safety and well-being are the absolute top priorities. While taking action can feel overwhelming, taking these steps as soon as possible can protect your health and preserve your legal rights:
- Get to safety: Move to a safe location away from the perpetrator. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
- Seek medical care: Go to an emergency room or specialized clinic for a Forensic Medical Exam (commonly called a rape kit).
- Preserve evidence: Do not shower, bathe, brush your teeth, wash your hands, or change your clothes before the exam, as this can destroy crucial DNA evidence.
- Report the incident: Report the assault to local law enforcement. Reporting the crime immediately establishes an official timeline, assists police in gathering evidence, and helps protect others from the offender.
- Document everything: Write down every detail you can remember about the attack, the perpetrator, and the location. Keep copies of all medical records, police reports, and communication (texts, emails, or social media messages) from the offender.
- Consult a civil sexual assault attorney: Once you have received medical attention, contact a dedicated sexual assault lawyer. A civil attorney will protect your privacy, advocate for your interests independently of the police investigation, and help you seek financial recovery.
Following this procedure will not only help to ensure your safety but will greatly increase the chance of holding the person accountable.
Recognition For Our Hard Work
Contact A Sexual Assault Attorney In Los Angeles Today
Taking the first step toward justice can feel daunting, but you do not have to carry this burden alone. At Panish | Shea | Ravipudi LLP, our compassionate, trauma-informed legal advocates are ready to stand by your side, protect your privacy, and fight for the recovery you deserve. We offer free, 100% confidential consultations to help you understand your legal options with zero pressure or obligation. Call or contact us today.
Visit Our Los Angeles Office
Panish | Shea | Ravipudi LLP
11111 Santa Monica Boulevard, Suite 700
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Our primary office is located in West Los Angeles, providing a safe, private space to discuss your potential claim.