San Diego
Institutional
Sexual Assault Lawyers
When sexual assault happens at the hands of someone in a position of authority, or in a place that was supposed to protect you, it can be especially difficult to process, report, or talk about. But you are not alone, and you still have legal options.
At Betts Law Group, we help survivors of institutional sexual assault hold facilities, employers, and organizations accountable. You have the right to seek justice through the civil court system. We’ll listen to your story, help you understand your legal options, and fight to make sure your voice is heard.
When sexual assault happens at the hands of someone in a position of authority, or in a place that was supposed to protect you, it can be especially difficult to process, report, or talk about. But you are not alone.
What Is Institutional Sexual Assault Under California Law?
Institutional sexual assault occurs when someone is harmed by an employee, caregiver, or person in power within an organization – and the institution itself failed to prevent it, caused it with negligent oversight, responded inadequately, or actively covered it up.
These cases may involve:
- Treatment and rehab facilities
- Hospitals and care centers
- Religious institutions
- Group homes or residential programs
- Employers or supervisors
- Mentorship or coaching programs
- Therapists and therapeutic practitioners
- Colleges, trade schools, and professional training
When an institution hires, supervises, or protects a perpetrator (or ignores warning signs) it can share legal responsibility for enabling the abuse.
WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY
Why Institutional Sexual Assault Cases Are Different
Unlike isolated incidents between individuals, institutional cases require a deeper investigation into systems, policies, and failures. At Betts Law Group, we’re experienced in uncovering:
- Failed background checks or hiring practices
- Prior complaints that were dismissed or ignored
- Inadequate supervision or training
- Patterns of cover-ups to protect reputations and profits
- Policies that discouraged reporting
- Lack of compliance with licensing regulations
We work with trauma-informed investigators and legal experts to hold both individuals and institutions accountable.
Can I File a Civil Case If There Is Also a Criminal Case?
Civil and criminal cases are separate. You can still pursue civil compensation even if there is an ongoing or past criminal investigation, or no investigation at all.You can pursue a civil case if the police investigated but the district attorney did not press charges. These are separate paths that can be navigated together or separately.
Experienced California sexual assault attorney Whitney Betts can also act as your Marsy’s Law victim advocate, helping ensure your rights are respected in the criminal system while pursuing justice through the civil courts.
What Can a Civil Institutional Sexual Assault Case Achieve?
A civil claim can help you:
- Seek compensation for emotional trauma, therapy, and medical care
- Hold the perpetrator and institution publicly accountable
- Demand answers and force policy change
- Reclaim control over your story
We tailor each case to your goals and comfort level. You decide whether and how to move forward.
Can I File an Institutional Sexual Assault Claim in California Years Later?
In California, survivors of sexual assault may have extended time to file a claim, especially when the abuse occurred in an institutional setting. The deadline (statute of limitations) depends on factors like:
- How old you were at the time
- When the abuse occurred
- How long you were under the institution’s care
- When you understood the impact of what happened
We’ll review your timeline and let you know if you’re still eligible to file.
Why Betts Law Group?
Our entire team is trauma-informed and committed to treating every client with care, discretion, and respect. We understand what it takes to uncover systemic negligence, and how to guide survivors through the legal system with power and dignity.
San Diego Institutional Sexual Assault Frequently Asked Questions
What is institutional sexual assault?
Do I need to file a police report first?
What can a civil case help me achieve?
Can an institution be held legally responsible?
How long do I have to file a claim?
Start With a Confidential Conversation
Start With a Confidential Conversation
You don’t have to decide everything today. Let’s start with a private consultation. We’ll answer your questions and give you the space, support, and legal tools to move forward when you’re ready.