California Doctor/Therapist Sexual Abuse Attorney

Doctor/Therapist Sexual Abuse Lawyer

CALIFORNIA ATTORNEYS FOR VICTIMS OF DOCTOR AND THERAPIST SEX ABUSE

As parents, we depend on medical professionals to keep our children healthy and thriving. All doctors take an oath to “do no harm” and this pledge is the doctor’s guiding principle. Most doctors enter this profession because they want to contribute to the well-being of society. However, some doctors and therapists abuse their power and violate this sacred oath.

PREVENTION AND DETECTION OF ABUSE

Medical and psychiatric sexual abuse can take place in settings such as: doctor’s offices, emergency rooms, clinics, schools and hospitals. In any setting where a child is examined, it is wise to have an adult guardian present. However, if an adult is not in the room, it is important to notice warning signs of potential abuse. They include the following:

  • Nightmares or other sleep problems without an explanation.
  • Distracted or distant at odd times.
  • A sudden change in eating habits.
  • Sudden mood swings: rage, fear, insecurity or withdrawal.
  • Leaves “clues” that seem likely to provoke a discussion about sexual issues.
  • Writes, draws, plays or dreams of sexual or frightening images.
  • Develops new or unusual fear of certain people or places.
  • Talks about a new older friend.
  • Thinks of self or body as repulsive, dirty or bad.
  • Exhibits adult-like sexual behaviors, language and knowledge.
  • Has new words for private body parts.
  • Resists removing clothes when appropriate times (bath, bed, toileting, diapering).
  • Wetting and soiling accidents unrelated to toilet training.

If your child exhibits any of the above symptoms, it is vital that you speak with them, in depth, to ascertain whether abuse occurred. Medical and psychiatric abuse can be particularly damaging because the element of trust between doctor and patient is sacrosanct. When a child is exposed to this violation of trust, the repercussions can last a lifetime.

TAKING ACTION FOR VICTIMS OF DOCTOR AND THERAPIST SEX ABUSE

When our children are abused by the very people entrusted with their care, the long-term effects can lead to depression, anxiety, social withdrawal, suicidal ideation, substance abuse and the inability to form intimate relationships as an adult.

If sex abuse is suspected, it is important to inform local law enforcement in California and contact an experienced sex abuse attorney as soon as possible. Effective litigation in doctor sex abuse cases requires the skill of a lawyer who is prepared to take on significant legal challenges. Craig Charles Law understands all the intricacies involved under California law in bringing these cases to a successful resolution.

COMPENSATION FOR DOCTOR SEX ABUSE IN CALIFORNIA

As the victim of sex abuse, your child is entitled to:

  • Compensation for past pain and suffering
  • Compensation for current medical care
  • Compensation for future medical care
  • Compensation for future emotional distress

Successful litigation for sex abuse claims in California must include expert witness testimony to demonstrate misconduct and negligence on the part of the doctor or therapist and must prove the connection to the child’s injuries or pain and suffering.

TIMELINE TO FILE A LAWSUIT FOR DOCTOR SEX ABUSE IN CALIFORNIA

Even if the sex abuse happened years ago, new California laws allow sex abuse victims to bring a claim against the perpetrator. In the past, underage survivors of doctor and therapist sex abuse had to bring a claim within 8 years of turning 18 or within 3 years of discovering the abuse. However, in 2020, ASSEMBLY BILL 218 was signed into law, giving sex abuse victims until the age of 40, or within 5 years of discovering the sex abuse. Even if the sex abuse is discovered past the age of 40, California victims may have an additional 5 years to bring a claim. Regardless, it is important to speak with an experienced sex abuse lawyer as soon as the sexual abuse is discovered so a thorough investigation can be conducted.

HIRE AN EXPERIENCED CALIFORNIA SEX ABUSE ATTORNEY WHO WILL FIGHT FOR YOU

If you, your child or loved one is the victim of past doctor or therapist sex abuse, give our office a call for a free, no obligation, completely confidential consult today. We will fight for you every step of the way and help to put this traumatic event behind you. We are a gay friendly, LGBTQIA affirming law practice. Call today at:424-343-0660.

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