Male survivors of sexual assault face unique barriers to coming forward, including fear of disbelief, shame, and social stigma that can delay healing for years. The right support, from trusted people in their lives and from trauma-informed professionals, can make a meaningful difference. Betts Law Group represents male survivors of sexual assault across California and can help you explore your legal options in a free, confidential consultation.
Sexual assault and abuse can happen to anyone. But when the survivor is male, harmful myths and social pressure often make it harder to speak out or seek help. This post shares ways to offer real support, whether you are a friend, family member, or someone who wants to stand with survivors.
At Betts Law Group, we’ve supported people across California who were harmed in places where they should have been safe. Our dedicated legal team approaches each case with care, respect, and a focus on what justice looks like for our clients.
Why Male Survivors Often Stay Silent
The reasons male survivors stay silent are often rooted in shame, fear, and outdated stereotypes. Some of the most common barriers include:
Fear of not being believed
Concerns about how others will perceive their masculinity or sexuality
Guilt or shame from internalized social messages
Worries about professional or personal fallout
This silence can delay healing. Many survivors suppress their trauma for years before feeling safe enough to speak. That’s why understanding and nonjudgmental support is so critical.
How To Support Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse
Friends, family, and partners can play a vital role in helping male survivors feel seen and safe. Here are some simple but powerful ways to support someone:
Listen without judgment: Don’t push for details or offer quick fixes.
Reinforce it wasn’t their fault: That message can be especially hard for men to accept.
Respect boundaries: Let them set the pace for sharing or seeking help.
Avoid minimizing the assault: Comments like “At least it wasn’t…” are harmful.
Check in regularly: Even if they aren’t ready to talk, your presence matters.
Small gestures go a long way. Being consistent and compassionate can help reduce shame and rebuild trust.
When and How to Connect with Sexual Assault Resources in California
Support may look different depending on where a survivor is in their process. Some may never wish to take legal steps, while others might want help understanding their rights.
An attorney with experience in handling sexual assault cases won’t pressure anyone into a decision. Their role is to clarify options and help protect rights if and when a survivor is ready. Legal support can include cases involvinginstitutional sexual assault,misconduct by licensed professionals, or workplace harassment.
Where Sexual Assault and Abuse May Happen in California
Many cases of male sexual assault occur in settings that involve trust, access, and power dynamics. Common environments include:
Religious and boarding schools
Addiction recovery programs and rehab centers
Youth and professional sports organizations
Correctional facilities, group homes, and residential care
Employment situations
In these spaces, survivors may be assaulted by authority figures like coaches, counselors, clergy, or health providers. These cases can involve complex institutional dynamics and may also highlight broader patterns of cover-up or negligence.
What Legal Paths Are Available in California?
Survivors in California may have civil options for pursuing justice. California also gives survivors specific rights under the law throughMarsy’s Law, including the right to be informed, to be heard, and to be protected throughout the legal process.
Seek damages for therapy, lost income, and other harm
Hold institutions accountable for enabling harm
Establish truth and accountability on their terms
Some also explore claims involving workplace harassment or professional misconduct. We know legal action isn’t always the answer, but we believe every survivor deserves access to justice and the ability to make informed choices.
Find Your Support After Male Sexual Assault in California
For male survivors of sexual assault, the path to healing isn’t linear, and it shouldn’t be walked alone. Real support includes listening, validating, and helping when asked. It also means knowing when to step aside and let professionals lead.
The decision to come forward, in any capacity, at any pace, takes real courage, and it deserves real support. At Betts Law Group, we don’t push anyone toward a decision they’re not ready to make. We listen, we give you the full picture, and we fight hard for the people who trust us with their story.
Frequently Asked Questions About Supporting Male Survivors of Sexual Assault
1. Can men be victims of sexual assault in California?
Yes. Sexual assault can happen to anyone regardless of gender. California law recognizes male survivors and gives them the same legal rights and protections as all other survivors, including the right to file a civil lawsuit and seek compensation for the harm they experienced.
2. Why do male survivors of sexual assault often stay silent?
Male survivors often stay silent because of fear of not being believed, concerns about how others will view their masculinity or sexuality, and deep-rooted shame from social stigma. These barriers are real, and they are exactly why nonjudgmental support from friends, family, and legal professionals matters so much.
3. What should I do if a male friend or family member discloses sexual assault?
Listen without judgment and let them lead. Don’t push for details, don’t minimize what happened, and don’t make promises about what will or won’t happen next. Let them know you believe them and that support is available whenever they’re ready. Ourresources for families and friends of survivors can help guide you through this.
4. Where can male survivors find support in California?
Support options include trauma-informed therapists, peer-led support groups, and survivor hotlines. Betts Law Group also offers aSan Diego Survivor Support Hotline for those who need someone to talk to with no legal commitment required.
5. Does taking legal action mean a male survivor has to relive the trauma?
Not with the right attorney. At Betts Law Group, Whitney Betts is a certified Rape Crisis Counselor as well as a civil attorney. She approaches every case with care and at a pace that works for the client.
6. Can male survivors file a claim for abuse that happened years ago?
Possibly, yes. Many male survivors suppress their trauma for years before coming forward. California law accounts for this through a delayed discovery rule and an extended filing window. Don’t assume it’s too late before you speak with an attorney.
If you’re a victim of dental sexual abuse in California, you have the right to file a complaint with the Dental Board of California, report to law enforcement, and pursue a civil lawsuit for damages. The strength of your case depends on factors like documentation, timing, and whether the abuse occurred under sedation or involved a pattern of misconduct.
Experiencing sexual harassment or abuse in a dental setting is not only traumatic; it’s also a violation of your trust when seeing a healthcare provider. Whether the harassment came from a dentist, dental assistant, or staff member, you have legal options, and you don’t have to go through it alone. This post explainshow to recognize dental sexual harassment, what steps to take, and where to turn for help in California.
AtBetts Law Group, we represent clients who have experiencedinstitutional sexual assault across healthcare, sports, and workplace environments. If you’ve been harmed by someone in a position of trust,we are here to support you and help you take the next steps with care and confidence.
What Is Considered “Dental Sexual Abuse” in California?
Sexual harassment in a dental setting can include:
Unwanted touching during treatment
Inappropriate comments or sexual jokes
Invasions of personal space or privacy
Pressuring or coercing a patient into uncomfortable situations
Some cases may involve physical assault, touch, or battery under anesthesia. Others involve repeated verbal harassment or misuse of professional authority. Regardless of the form, sexual harassment in a dental setting is not acceptable.
If you have experienced sexual harassment at a dental office, take the following steps to make sure you get the support you deserve and ensure that justice is served.
Step 1: Recognize What Happened
It’s common to feel confused or unsure in the moment, especially when the perpetrator is a licensed professional. Trust your instincts. If something felt wrong or made you feel uncomfortable or violated, that matters. Keep in mind:
Harassment can be verbal or physical
Power dynamics may cause hesitation in speaking up
Emotional reactions (like shame, fear, or anger) are valid responses
Whether the incident happened recently or in the past, you still have the right to come forward.
Step 2: Prioritize Your Safety and Support
If you’re in immediate danger, call 911 or seek help from someone nearby. Once safe, consider reaching out to someone you trust, whether that’s a friend, therapist, or support organization.
Support matters. Whether or not you’re ready to take legal action, having someone in your corner can help you feel grounded and empowered.
Step 3: Document What Happened
If you feel safe doing so, gather as much information as you can:
Write down a detailed account of what occurred, including dates, times, and locations
Save any messages, voicemails, or emails that may support your account
If someone witnessed the incident or part of it, try to get their contact information
This documentation may become important if you choose to file a complaint or lawsuit.
Step 4: Report the Harassment
There are multiple ways to report dental sexual harassment in California:
File a Complaint with the Dental Board of California: The Dental Board of California investigates complaints of sexual misconduct against licensed dental professionals, including dentists, dental hygienists, and registered dental assistants.
Report to Law Enforcement: If the incident involves physical assault or any criminal behavior, contact your local police department. You have the right to file a police report.
Notify the Dental Office or Clinic: If the perpetrator was not the main dentist (for example, a hygienist or assistant), you may also want to inform the practice owner or office manager. However, do what feels safest for you.
Step 5: Talk to a Sexual Assault Attorney
Navigating the legal process after dental sexual harassment can feel overwhelming. A skilled attorney can help you:
Understand your rights
Evaluate your legal options
File civil claims or assist with criminal proceedings
You may be entitled to compensation for emotional distress, medical bills, or other losses. The right lawyer will guide you with care and clarity. Betts Law Group has experience with professional misconduct cases and supports survivors through every step.
Contact Betts Law Group Today
We understand that speaking out after experiencing sexual harassment in a healthcare setting can be difficult. At Betts Law Group, we are committed to creating space for survivors to be heard and supported. If you’re ready to talk,contact us for a confidential consultation. You deserve to be safe, respected, and informed about your options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Reporting Dental Sexual Harassment in California
1. What counts as sexual abuse or harassment in a dental setting?
Sexual abuse or harassment in a dental setting includes any unwanted touching, sexual comments, inappropriate physical contact during treatment, or abuse while a patient is sedated. If a dentist, hygienist, assistant, or any staff member made you feel violated or uncomfortable in a sexual way, that experience is valid and may have legal significance; we handle these cases under institutional sexual assault.
2. What should I do first if I’ve been sexually abused by a dentist in California?
The most important first steps are to get to safety, write down everything you remember about what happened, and reach out to someone you trust. After that, consider filing a complaint with the Dental Board of California and contact a sexual assault attorney. You don’t need to have everything figured out before you make that call.
3. Can I file a civil lawsuit against a dentist for sexual abuse in California?
Yes. In addition to filing a criminal complaint or a report with the Dental Board, you may be able to pursue a civil lawsuit for damages including emotional distress, therapy costs, and other losses.
4. Can I report dental sexual abuse if it happened years ago?
Possibly, yes. California has expanded its statute of limitations for sexual assault civil claims in recent years.
5. How do I file a complaint against a dentist with the Dental Board of California?
You can file a complaint directly through theDental Board of California’s complaints page. The Board investigates sexual misconduct complaints against licensed dental professionals and can refer serious cases for criminal prosecution. Filing a board complaint is separate from pursuing a civil lawsuit, and you have the right to do both.
6. Will I have to relive what happened in order to take legal action?
Working with the right attorney makes a meaningful difference here. At Betts Law Group, Whitney Betts is a certified Rape Crisis Counselor as well as a civil attorney. She understands the emotional weight of coming forward and approaches every case with care, at a pace that works for you.
7. What compensation can I receive for dental sexual abuse in California?
Compensation in a civil sexual assault case can include damages for emotional distress, therapy and medical costs, lost wages, and, in some cases punitive damages. Every case is different, which is why Betts Law Group handles all cases on a contingency basis, so you pay nothing unless we recover for you.
8. Do I have to report dental sexual abuse to the police to take legal action?
No. A police report and a civil lawsuit are separate processes. You can pursue a civil claim without filing a criminal complaint, and vice versa. Some survivors choose one path, and some choose both. What matters most is that you make the choice that feels right for you, with a full understanding of all your options.
For many employees, workplace contracts include pages of fine print that often go unread. Tucked into that fine print, many employees discover arbitration agreements (clauses) requiring workplace disputes to be settled privately instead of in court. When it comes to sexual harassment claims, these agreements can have a major impact on how survivors pursue justice.
At Betts Law Group, we believe survivors should understand their options before signing or challenging an arbitration clause. Here’s what you should know about how these agreements work in California and how they can affect your rights.
What Is an Arbitration Agreement?
An arbitration agreement is a clause in an employment contract that requires disputes between an employee and employer to be resolved through private arbitration rather than in a public courtroom. This process takes place before a neutral third party called an arbitrator, not a judge or jury.
While arbitration is often presented as faster or less costly, it usually benefits the employer. Arbitration proceedings are private, and the decisions are typically final, meaning survivors lose their right to appeal or publicly hold the employer accountable.
Can Sexual Harassment Claims Be Forced Into Arbitration?
In the past, many survivors were forced into arbitration because of these contracts, which effectively silenced them and kept misconduct out of public view. However, California and federal law have recently changed to offer greater protection.
Under the Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act, employees who experience sexual harassment or assault now have the choice to pursue their claim in court even if they signed an arbitration agreement.
This federal law applies nationwide and gives survivors the right to make their claims public, allowing for greater transparency and accountability.
Why Arbitration Can Be Problematic for Survivors
Even though the law now gives employees more control, arbitration clauses can still cause confusion and delay. Survivors may feel pressured not to speak up, or they may think their case can only be handled in private.
Arbitration often:
Limits access to discovery and evidence that might strengthen a case
Keeps the outcome confidential, preventing other victims from learning about misconduct
Favors repeat employers who regularly use arbitration services
Restricts a survivor’s right to appeal unfair decisions
This lack of transparency can discourage reporting and make it harder to expose systemic workplace harassment.
California’s Worker Protections
California already has strong worker protection laws under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), which prohibits harassment and retaliation based on sex, gender, or other protected categories.
Even when arbitration is part of a contract, California courts carefully review whether it is enforceable, especially in cases involving sexual harassment or discrimination. Some agreements may be invalid if they are overly broad, coercive, or violate public policy.
Survivors still have the right to file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), regardless of arbitration language in their contracts.
What to Do If You Signed an Arbitration Agreement
If you believe you have a valid sexual harassment claim but signed an arbitration agreement, you still have options. You can:
Review your agreement with an experienced attorney to determine if it is enforceable
Decide whether to move forward in court under the federal arbitration exemption
File a complaint with state or federal agencies while your case is being reviewed
Gather evidence and witness statements while preserving your rights
Many arbitration agreements are written to favor the employer, but that doesn’t mean they are always valid.
Taking the Next Step
For survivors, understanding these agreements is the first step toward reclaiming control. Arbitration may be written into a contract, but it cannot erase your rights under state and federal law.
If you experienced sexual harassment and are unsure whether an arbitration clause applies to you, Betts Law Group can help you review your contract, explain your legal options, and guide you toward a resolution that prioritizes your safety and voice.
You deserve clarity, protection, and a team that stands beside you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arbitration Agreements Affecting Sexual Harassment Claims in California
What is forced arbitration? Forced arbitration is when an employer requires employees to handle disputes privately, instead of going to court. It often limits transparency and the survivor’s right to appeal.
Can I still sue my employer if I signed an arbitration agreement? Yes. Under federal law, employees who experience sexual harassment or assault can choose to go to court, even if they previously agreed to arbitration.
Does California law protect against forced arbitration? Yes. California has additional worker protections, and courts frequently strike down arbitration clauses that are unfair or violate public policy.
What if my employer retaliates after I report harassment? Retaliation is illegal under the Fair Employment and Housing Act. You may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and emotional distress.
Should I talk to an attorney before signing an employment contract? Absolutely. An attorney can review the agreement, explain any arbitration clauses, and help you understand how they may affect your rights in the future.
Experiencing sexual assault within an institution can leave lasting wounds. The pain isn’t only from what happened, but from being failed by a place that was supposed to protect you. This kind of failure is known as institutional negligence, which occurs when an organization’s actions or inaction allow abuse to happen or continue without intervention.
At Betts Law Group, we’ve seen how institutional negligence can alter the course of a survivor’s life. Understanding what it looks like and knowing your legal options is an important step toward accountability, healing, and reclaiming your voice.
What Does Institutional Negligence Mean?
Institutions have both a legal and ethical duty to create safe environments for those under their care. Negligence occurs when they fail to meet that duty. This may happen when administrators ignore complaints, fail to perform background checks, neglect proper supervision, or dismiss reports of misconduct.
Failing to investigate credible allegations of abuse.
Allowing staff or volunteers to remain in positions of authority after complaints.
Not enforcing policies for reporting or preventing misconduct.
Creating a culture where survivors are silenced or discouraged from speaking up.
Whether it happens in a hospital, school, correctional facility, or religious organization, the responsibility lies with leadership to act, and their failure to do so can make them legally liable.
Where Institutional Negligence Commonly Occurs
While abuse can happen anywhere, certain institutions have a higher duty of care because of the vulnerable populations they serve. Examples include:
Hospitals and healthcare facilities — When patients depend on medical professionals for treatment, consent and safety must be protected. Failing to monitor staff or respond to misconduct puts patients at risk.
Rehabilitation centers — Individuals in recovery may be especially vulnerable to manipulation or coercion. When facilities ignore reports or fail to train staff properly, they can be held responsible for abuse that occurs inside their walls.
Schools and universities — Administrators must act on reports of harassment or assault. Neglecting to do so, or covering up incidents to protect reputations, is a breach of duty.
Workplaces and nonprofits — When employees, volunteers, or donors misuse their power and leadership looks the other way, the organization itself can be held accountable.
Places meant to protect rely on trust. When that trust is lost, the institution’s actions or inaction often play a defining role in what follows.
How Survivors Can Hold Institutions Accountable
Holding an institution accountable is about more than seeking compensation; it’s about changing systems that allowed abuse to continue. Survivors may be able to file a civil claim against the organization for failing to protect them. This type of case can involve damages for:
Emotional and psychological trauma
Medical expenses
Loss of income or employment
Pain and suffering
In some cases, punitive damages may also apply if the institution’s behavior was particularly reckless or harmful.
At Betts Law Group, we work to uncover what went wrong, whether policies were ignored, warning signs missed, or complaints silenced. Our goal is to ensure that survivors are heard, supported, and empowered to seek justice.
The Role of Trauma-Informed Representation
Legal action after institutional sexual assault is deeply personal. Survivors often carry feelings of guilt, fear, or confusion about coming forward, especially when the institution holds significant power or influence.
A trauma-informed attorney understands that legal strategy must be balanced with compassion. That means:
Listening without judgment.
Prioritizing survivor safety and comfort.
Allowing clients to make informed choices at their own pace.
Advocating fiercely while respecting emotional boundaries.
When to Seek Legal Help
If you or someone you care about has experienced sexual assault in a setting where someone should have been protecting you, it’s important to understand your rights. Institutional negligence claims can be complex, especially when large organizations try to minimize their responsibility or hide evidence.
A sexual assault attorney can look into whether the institution’s failures led to the harm you suffered. They can help protect your privacy, gather evidence, and make sure your voice is heard throughout the process.
Moving Toward Accountability and Healing
Institutional negligence cases are not just about identifying what went wrong; they are about building a safer future for others. Every survivor who comes forward helps shine a light on the gaps that allowed abuse to occur.
If you believe an organization failed to protect you, contact Betts Law Group to discuss your situation confidentially. You do not have to face this alone, and your story deserves to be taken seriously.
Frequently Asked Questions About Institutional Negligence in Sexual Assault Cases
What is considered institutional negligence in a sexual assault case? Institutional negligence occurs when an organization fails to protect individuals from foreseeable harm. This can include ignoring complaints, failing to supervise staff, or allowing known abusers to remain in positions of authority.
Can I sue both the abuser and the institution? Yes. Survivors can file civil claims against both the individual responsible for the assault and the institution that enabled or failed to prevent the abuse.
What kinds of institutions can be held accountable? Hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, religious organizations, and workplaces can all be held responsible if they neglect to act or enforce safety measures.
How do I prove that an institution was negligent? Evidence may include prior complaints, lack of background checks, internal reports, or testimony showing that leadership ignored warning signs or failed to follow safety procedures.
Is there a time limit to file an institutional negligence claim in California? Yes, but timelines vary depending on the case and the survivor’s age at the time of the assault. California law allows extended filing periods for survivors of sexual assault, especially when institutions concealed the abuse.
Why should I contact a lawyer for institutional sexual assault? An attorney can help uncover evidence, identify all liable parties, and ensure the institution is held accountable. At Betts Law Group, we approach every case with compassion and determination to help survivors rebuild their lives and pursue justice.
Institutional sexual assault occurs when someone in a position of authority sexually abuses a person in their care, and both the individual and the institution can be held legally responsible in California. Whether you can sue, how much you may recover, and how long you have to file all depend on where the abuse happened, who was involved, and how the institution responded to known risks.
No one expects harm to come from a place of safety. But when schools, hospitals, correctional facilities, or workplaces fail to protect the people they serve, the consequences can be life-altering.
Led by Thomas Betts and Whitney Betts, our team is here to listen, support, and take meaningful legal action on your behalf.
What Is Institutional Sexual Assault?
Institutional sexual assault happens when someone in a position of authority within an organization uses that power to abuse or exploit a person under their care. These individuals may include:
Healthcare providers like doctors, nurses, or therapists
Educators or school staff
Correctional facility guards
Religious leaders
Employers or supervisors
Often, institutions fail to conduct proper background checks, ignore warning signs, or protect abusers to preserve their reputation. That negligence allows abuse to happen in places meant to be safe, likerehab clinics.
In California, sexual assault may fall under several statutes, including sexual battery, rape, and civil action for gender-based violence. These laws offer both criminal consequences for abusers and civil pathways for survivors to seek justice.
Why Survivors Don’t Always Speak Up Right Away
Survivors of institutional abuse often delay reporting for deeply human reasons. The person who hurt them may have been someone they trusted or depended on for care or support. They may have feared retaliation, disbelief, or shame. Some may have been manipulated emotionally or psychologically to believe the abuse was normal or even their fault.
At Betts Law Group, we understand how complicated these experiences can be. We never rush you, judge you, or pressure you. Our mission is to help you reclaim your power and voice, no matter how long ago the abuse occurred.
How to Build a Case Against an Institution
Sexual abuse cases involving institutions can be complex. It’s not just about holding the individual perpetrator accountable; it’s about proving that the organization was negligent. We investigate whether the institution:
Ignored complaints or failed to act
Neglected to train or supervise staff
Failed to conduct proper background checks
Allowed ongoing access to vulnerable individuals despite known risks
How Can an Institutional Sexual Assault Lawyer Help?
Every survivor’s path is different. A compassionate institutional sexual assault lawyer will walk it with you, at your pace. At Betts Law Group, here’s what you can expect when you contact our team:
Confidential consultation: We listen without judgment and help you understand your rights and options.
Compassionate legal guidance: We provide trauma-informed support and explain each step of the legal process clearly.
Thorough investigation: Our attorneys work to uncover any evidence of institutional negligence or cover-up.
Take the First Step Toward Healing and Justice; Contact Betts Law Group Today
Institutional sexual assault cases are never easy, but you don’t have to carry the weight alone. At Betts Law Group, we believe survivors, and we fight with empathy, strength, and dignity to make sure you’re heard. We’re committed to standing by you every step of the way in seeking justice and holding institutions accountable for their actions.
Contact us today at (858) 201-2424 or schedule a free, confidential consultation. Let’s take the next step forward together.
Frequently Asked Questions About Institutional Sexual Assault
1. What is institutional sexual assault?
Institutional sexual assault is when someone in a position of power, like a doctor, teacher, coach, or prison guard, sexually abuses or exploits someone in their care. They can be charged as individuals, and the organization they work for may also be held legally responsible if it failed to prevent the abuse.
2. Who can be held responsible for institutional sexual assault in California?
Both the individual abuser and the institution can be held responsible. If a school, hospital, employer, or facility ignored complaints, skipped background checks, or looked the other way, they may be liable too.Thomas Betts andWhitney Betts investigate both the abuser and the organization to build the strongest possible case for our firm’s clients.
3. Can I still file a lawsuit if the abuse happened years ago?
Possibly, yes. California has extended deadlines for many sexual assault cases, especially those involving childhood abuse. Contact Betts Law Group to find out if your claim is still within the legal window.
4. What if the abuse happened at a rehab center, hospital, or school?
These are exactly the kinds of cases Betts Law Group handles. Institutions that are supposed to provide care have a higher legal duty to protect the people they serve. When they fail, survivors have the right to hold them accountable.
5. What compensation can I receive from an institutional sexual assault lawsuit?
You may be able to recover money for therapy costs, medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and pain and suffering. In cases of serious negligence, courts can also award punitive damages. Find out more abouthow compensation works in California.
6. Do I have to report the abuse to the police before filing a civil lawsuit?
No. A civil lawsuit is separate from a criminal case, and you do not need a police report or a criminal conviction to move forward. Many survivors choose the civil route because it gives them more control over the process.
7. What if I was afraid to speak up because of retaliation?
Fear of retaliation is one of the most common reasons survivors stay silent, and it is completely understandable. California law has protections in place for people who report abuse or misconduct. Learn more aboutyour rights if you faced retaliation, and know that our team will never pressure or rush you.
8. How do I get started with Betts Law Group?
You can call us at (858) 201-2424 orfill out our confidential contact form to schedule a free consultation. There is no pressure, no judgment, and no cost for your first consultation.
Surviving sexual assault isn’t just about surviving the moment but also handling the aftermath with dignity and strength, oftentimes without support. If someone violated your boundaries and took away your sense of safety, you may be dealing with fear, shame, anger, and confusion. You are not alone, and what happened is not your fault.
At Betts Law Group, our lead advocates, attorneys Thomas Betts and Whitney Betts, are deeply committed to helping survivors of sexual violence find their voice and pursue accountability. With years of experience handling sensitive, high-stakes cases across California, our team approaches each situation with trauma-informed care, strategic legal action, and unwavering advocacy.
What Is Sexual Assault Under California Law?
Under California law, sexual assault includes any non-consensual sexual contact. This includes unwanted touching, coercion, groping, molestation, and rape. The California Penal Code makes it clear that consent must be freely and affirmatively given. Past relationships, silence, or prior consent do not count.
In civil court, these acts may also give rise to personal injury claims for assault, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. And unlike criminal cases, survivors in civil cases can hold not just the perpetrator accountable, but also any institution, employer, or third party who enabled or failed to prevent the harm.
What Should You Do After a Sexual Assault?
Even if the person who assaulted you is never criminally charged or convicted, you still have rights. California allows survivors to file civil lawsuits to seek compensation for the harm they suffered and hold the responsible parties accountable. Through a civil sexual assault claim, you can:
Reclaim your power through your story being heard
Hold individuals and institutions legally accountable
Seek monetary compensation for physical and emotional damages
You may also be able to pursue claims for negligent hiring, failure to supervise, or ratification of misconduct, especially in cases involving workplaces, medical facilities, schools, or rideshare platforms.
What If You Knew Your Assailant?
Many survivors wonder if what they experienced is still considered assault if they knew the person. The answer is yes. The majority of sexual assaults are committed by someone the survivor knows, whether a co-worker, friend, partner, or family member. Consent must be given every time and for each act, regardless of your relationship to the person.
Is a Civil Lawsuit Still Possible If the Police Are Involved?
Yes. Even if there’s a criminal case, you can still pursue a civil case. California law recognizes that survivors should have the opportunity to seek justice regardless of the outcome in the criminal system. Civil lawsuits offer:
A lower burden of proof than criminal court
A path to compensation for emotional and financial damages
A chance to hold institutions accountable
How Long Do You Have to File a Civil Claim?
Survivors of sexual assault have10 years to file a civil claim or 3 years from the date they discover the injury or damage caused by the assault, whichever is later.
For childhood sexual abuse that occurred before January 1, 2024, California allows survivors to file until they turn 40 or within 5 years of discovering the abuse. For abuse occurring on or after January 1, 2024, California has eliminated the statute of limitations entirely, so now survivors may file a civil claim at any time.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
A civil claim is about more than money, but financial compensation can help you begin to rebuild. Survivors may be eligible to recover:
Medical and therapy costs
Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Punitive damages (in cases of intentional or egregious conduct)
How Can a Sexual Assault Attorney Help?
After an assault, finding the words or energy to fight for yourself can feel impossible, and that’s completely okay. You don’t have to face this journey alone. At Betts Law Group, we are here to support you every step of the way by listening without judgment, protecting your privacy and safety, and investigating your case with the utmost sensitivity and discretion. We handle cases involving:
Childhood Sexual Abuse
Lyft & Uber Driver Sexual Assault
Therapist Grooming and Sexual Assault
Improper Conduct in Medical Facilities
School District Incidents
Massage Therapist Assault
Rehab Facility Assault
Institutional Abuse
Institutional Cover-ups
We are committed to holding both individuals and institutions accountable, pursuing meaningful justice and real change on your behalf. Our purpose is to elevate your voice, not speak over it, as we fight to get you the accountability and compensation you deserve.
Contact Our Sexual Assault Legal Team to Walk This Path Together
At Betts Law Group, we represent survivors of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, disabled adults, and children. Our trauma-informed approach means we always put your comfort, safety, and control first.
If you or someone you love is a survivor of sexual violence, we see you. We believe you. And we are here to help. You don’t need to have it all figured out to reach out. Leave us your details or contact us at (858) 201-2424.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your Rights After Sexual Assault in California
1. What is sexual assault under California law?
Sexual assault in California is any unwanted sexual contact without consent, including touching, groping, molestation, and rape. Consent must be freely given every time, no matter the relationship. If you’ve experienced this, oursexual assault attorneys can help you understand your rights.
2. What compensation can I get from a sexual assault civil lawsuit?
Survivors can recover money for medical and therapy bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and, in some cases, punitive damages. Visit ourpersonal injury page to learn more about how damages work.
3. Can I sue someone for sexual assault even if they weren’t arrested?
Yes. A criminal conviction is not required to file a civil lawsuit. California lets survivors pursue their own case for compensation, separate from any criminal case. Learn more about your options from our sexual assault lawyers in California.
4. How long do I have to file a sexual assault lawsuit in California?
Adult survivors generally have 10 years from the assault or 3 years from discovering the harm, whichever is later. For childhood abuse before 2024, survivors can file until age 40 or within 5 years of discovering the harm.Contact us to find out if your case is still within the filing window.
5. Can I still sue if the assault happened years ago?
Possibly, yes. California has some of the most generous timelines in the country for sexual assault claims, including special rules for childhood abuse. Don’t assume it’s too late. Reach out to us for a free, confidential consultation.
6. Can I file a civil lawsuit against a school, hospital, or employer for sexual assault?
Yes. Institutions can be held liable if they failed to prevent abuse or covered it up. Our team handlessexual assault cases involving schools, medical facilities, rideshare companies, and more.
7. Does it count as sexual assault if I knew the person?
Yes. Most sexual assaults are committed by someone the survivor knows. Consent is required every time, regardless of the relationship. If you’re unsure whether what happened qualifies,contact our team for counsel without judgment.
8. What is the difference between a criminal case and a civil sexual assault lawsuit?
Criminal cases are brought by the government to punish the offender. A civil case is brought by you to get compensation for your harm. Civil cases have a lower burden of proof, so you can win even if criminal charges were never filed. Oursexual assault attorneys handle the civil side on your behalf.
