Los Angeles Sexual Assault Attorneys

Los Angeles Sexual Injuries: Seeking Justice with Heidari Law Group

Sexual assault is a traumatic experience that can have long-lasting physical and psychological impacts on victims. At Heidari Law Group, we understand the profound emotional and physical challenges survivors face. Our team of experienced Los Angeles sexual assault attorneys is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to those who have suffered.

The Impact of Sexual Assault

The effects of sexual assault extend beyond physical injuries; they often include severe emotional distress, such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression, which may persist for years. Survivors may also struggle with trust issues and difficulties in daily functioning. A recent increase in sexual assault cases in Los Angeles highlights the importance of addressing this issue with comprehensive legal and psychological support.

For instance, incidents on LA Metro have surged, leading to public safety concerns and calls for enhanced security measures. The LA County Sheriff’s Department has responded by increasing patrols and working closely with community organizations to support victims.

How Heidari Law Group Can Help

If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual assault, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. Heidari Law Group offers free, no-risk consultations where our attorneys will evaluate your case and discuss potential strategies. We work tirelessly to hold perpetrators accountable through civil litigation, seeking justice and compensation for the suffering endured by victims.

Our team is skilled in handling complex cases, including those involving assaults by individuals in positions of power, such as the case of Harvey Weinstein, where high-profile legal proceedings demonstrated the importance of experienced legal representation. Our attorneys will guide you through every step, ensuring you feel supported and heard throughout the process.

FAQs: Your Legal Rights as a Survivor of Sexual Assault

1. What steps should I take after experiencing sexual assault?

It’s essential to seek medical attention immediately and report the incident to law enforcement. Preserving evidence and getting a professional medical examination can be crucial for both your physical health and the legal process.

2. Can I file a lawsuit even if the perpetrator is not convicted criminally?

Yes, you have the right to pursue a civil lawsuit regardless of the outcome of a criminal trial. Civil litigation focuses on obtaining compensation for your damages rather than determining criminal guilt. At Heidari Law Group, our attorneys are experienced in pursuing these claims, even when criminal charges are not filed.

3. What compensation can I seek?

Victims of sexual assault may seek compensation for medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Each case is unique, so consulting with a skilled attorney can help determine the appropriate legal strategy and potential compensation.

Understanding Sexual Assault in California

Sexual assault is a complex and serious offense that encompasses various unwanted sexual acts, which can have profound impacts on victims. In California, sexual assault includes any non-consensual sexual contact or behavior. The definition extends beyond physical violence to also include threats and coercive behavior.

What Actions Are Considered Sexual Assault?

In Los Angeles and broader California, actions classified as sexual assault under the law include:

• Rape: Forced sexual intercourse without consent.
• Sexual threats: Any verbal or non-verbal threats aimed at coercing a person into a sexual act.
• Sodomy: Non-consensual anal intercourse.
• Sexual seduction and coercion: Using manipulation or pressure tactics to obtain sexual favors.

Sexual assault can occur in various settings, including workplaces and within marriages. For instance, California Penal Code 262 addresses spousal rape, ensuring that non-consensual acts within marriages are also prosecutable.

For more detailed information about the legal definitions and consequences related to sexual assault, refer to the Heidari Law Group’s comprehensive guides on sexual assault

Steps to Take If You’ve Been Sexually Assaulted

If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual assault in Los Angeles, it is critical to take immediate steps to protect your rights:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Medical evaluations can document evidence vital for both criminal and civil cases. A forensic exam, often referred to as a “rape kit,” collects crucial evidence.
2. Report the Assault: Filing a report with local law enforcement is crucial for initiating legal action and ensuring your safety.
3. Preserve Evidence: Retain any clothing or items from the scene, as they might be critical in court.

FAQs About Sexual Assault in California

How long do I have to file a sexual assault claim? The statute of limitations for filing a sexual assault lawsuit in California varies. Heidari Law Group victims have 10 years from the date of the assault, but childhood abuse cases may be filed until the victim turns 40 or within five years of discovering the abuse. For specific timelines, see the legal updates available here.

Examples of Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is a broad term that encompasses various non-consensual behaviors and acts. It is crucial to understand these examples to recognize the signs and know when to seek help. Below are some common forms of sexual assault:

1. Unwanted Kissing

Unwanted kissing occurs when someone forces or attempts to kiss another person without their consent. It might seem minor compared to other acts of assault, but it can be deeply violating and is considered a serious offense. If you or someone you know has experienced unwanted kissing, it’s essential to speak with a legal professional to understand your rights.

2. Unwanted Hugging

Similar to unwanted kissing, unwanted hugging is when physical contact is imposed on a person against their will. This can be emotionally distressing and is classified as a form of sexual assault.

3. Unwanted Violent Sexual Activity

Unwanted violent sexual activity refers to aggressive sexual acts performed without the consent of the victim. This can include physical force, threats, or intimidation. Such acts are illegal and can have severe emotional and psychological consequences for victims.

4. Sexual Molestation

Sexual molestation involves inappropriate touching or other physical contact, often targeting minors. These acts are severe crimes and can cause long-lasting trauma for victims. Understanding your options for legal recourse is crucial if you or someone close to you is experiencing this.

Q: What should I do if I suspect a minor is being molested?
A: If you suspect that a minor is being molested, it’s critical to report it immediately to the authorities. You can also consult a sexual assault attorney to understand the next legal steps and ensure the child’s safety. Visit NBC LA for more information on recognizing and reporting child abuse.

5. Attempted Rape

Attempted rape is when an individual attempts to sexually penetrate another person without their consent but does not complete the act. Despite not reaching full completion, this act is treated as a severe criminal offense and can lead to significant legal consequences for the perpetrator. Victims of attempted rape should seek immediate legal advice. Check our resources on sexual assault victims for support and guidance.

6. Rape

Rape is a grave criminal offense involving non-consensual sexual intercourse. It is one of the most severe forms of sexual assault, with devastating impacts on victims. The trauma associated with rape is profound, and seeking legal and emotional support is essential. Our legal services provide victims with a compassionate approach to seeking justice.

Q: How common is rape in Los Angeles?
A: Rape and sexual assault remain significant issues in Los Angeles and across the United States. According to recent statistics, the number of reported rape cases continues to rise. For detailed crime statistics, visit ABC7 or FOX11.

7. Statutory Rape

Statutory rape occurs when an individual engages in sexual activity with someone who is below the age of legal consent, even if both parties agreed to the act. Laws surrounding statutory rape are strict, and the consequences for perpetrators can be severe. Understanding the specifics of statutory rape laws is essential for both victims and those accused.

What is sexual harassment?

Usually, many people get these two legal terms mixed up for one another. Sexual harassment is the verbal and physical unwanted sexual actions. For example, you could file a claim for sexual harassment at the workplace if your employer has made some sexual remarks towards you. On the other hand, sexual assault is the actual physical contact with another person. You could file a lawsuit for sexual assault and sexual harassment. To determine if your circumstances fall under a sexual harassment or a sexual assault claim, contact our Los Angeles attorneys today.

What kind of damages could I receive for a sexual assault claim in Los Angeles?

A sexual assault claim could be brought criminally and civilly. Under the criminal system, the prosecutor charges a defendant with the sex crime. However, our Los Angeles attorneys take care of the civil legal process. Our attorneys hold the defendant liable civilly for any monetary damages suffered by the victim.

Even if the defendant has not been charged criminally, you could still file a claim against a third party for sexual assault in civil court. There are different types of damages a sexual assault victim could receive in Los Angeles. This depends on the circumstances of the case and the injuries suffered by the victim. Different damage is included:

• Medical expenses new line of past lost wages
• Future earning potential
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress (such as PTSD, insomnia, depression, anxiety)
• Loss of companionship
• Punitive damages: punitive damages are only awarded in Los Angeles when the court finds that there has been some type of wrongdoing by the defendant. For example, if the defendant acted with malice or an evil motive when causing the sexual assault, the victim could be able to also obtain punitive damages.

When should I file my sexual assault claim in Los Angeles?

It is very difficult to come forward if you have been a victim of sexual assault. California and Los Angeles have several laws in place that determine the statute of limitations as to when you could file your sexual assault claim. For example, the statute of limitations for many other personal injury claims range from two to six years. However, Los Angeles and California laws understand that it could be difficult for people to come forward to file a sexual assault claim.

In California, if you are a childhood sexual abuse victim, you must file the claim within five years of the discovery of the abuse or by the time you have reached 40 years old. Los Angeles has also established a set of revival claims where they have revived past sexual abuse claims.

What should I do if I have been a victim of sexual assault in Los Angeles?

If you have been sexually assaulted in Los Angeles, there are some important steps you must take.

• You should seek immediate medical help to determine if there is any evidence against the attacker. This is a very important step in filing a lawsuit against the attacker.
• Report the attack to the police department.
• If you need to speak with someone, contacting National Sexual Assault Hotline.
• Save as much evidence as possible, such as the clothing you were wearing during the attack.
• Hire an experienced sexual assault attorney to represent your claims. Not many law firms in Los Angeles handle sexual assault claims. Our attorneys understand the complexity that comes along with sexual assault claims, and are available to represent your rights.

Who are the defendants that could be liable for my sexual assault claim in Los Angeles?

There are several different types of defendants that could be liable for your sexual assault claim. These defendants could include:

• An employer
• A sports coach
• A doctor
• Parents
• Teachers
• Friends

Sexual Assault Statistics in California

• Every two and a half minutes, someone is sexually assaulted in America.
• 1 in 6 American women are victims of sexual assault.
• 1 in 33 men are victims of sexual assault.
• Rape and sexual assaults most commonly occurred between the hours of 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.
• In 2020, there were 3,756 rape crimes reported in Los Angeles. The number could be exponentially higher since when you rape victims are afraid of coming forward.

Sexual Assault at Work

If you have suffered sexual assault while at work, contact our sexual assault attorneys today to determine how you could receive damages for your injuries suffered. Our attorneys have Decades of experience representing employees whose rights have been violated at work.

According to the equal employment opportunity commission, although workplace sexual harassment reports are on the rise, many have also come forward saying that they are too afraid to report any sexual assault that they have suffered. Many are afraid of workplace retaliation if they were to come forward and report the sexual assault.

Do I need a sexual assault attorney?

While the prosecutor handles the criminal side of the sexual assault, our attorneys will work on the civil side of the sexual assault. Contact us to schedule a free consultation today.

What do our Los Angeles sexual assault attorneys do?

• We will keep your identity private throughout the scope of your case
• We will file all the necessary paperwork that is needed for your case
• We will launch an investigation into your case to the gather as much evidence as possible against the perpetrator
• We will negotiate with the at fault party
• We create a legal strategy for your claim