California Sexual Assault and Abuse Lawyer

Sexual assault and abuse can cause profound physical, emotional, and psychological harm. Survivors often face trauma that affects every part of their lives, including their health, relationships, work, and sense of safety.

The Law Office of Norman Gregory Fernandez represents survivors of sexual assault and abuse throughout California in civil injury claims. These cases often involve institutions, property owners, employers, schools, care facilities, or organizations that failed to protect people from foreseeable harm.

If you or a loved one experienced sexual assault or abuse because someone failed to take reasonable steps to keep you safe, you may have the right to pursue justice and compensation through a civil claim.

Holding Institutions and Property Owners Accountable

Many sexual assault cases are not only about the individual who committed the act, but also about the failures that allowed it to happen. In California, businesses, landlords, schools, employers, and organizations may be legally responsible when assault was foreseeable and reasonable safety measures were not in place.

Civil cases focus on accountability, safety failures, and preventing future harm. These claims are separate from any criminal case and can proceed even if no criminal charges were filed.

Survivors deserve to be heard, supported, and treated with respect throughout the legal process.

Sexual Assault and Abuse Civil Claims in California

A civil sexual assault or abuse claim seeks compensation and accountability for harm caused by another party’s negligence or misconduct. These cases are different from criminal prosecutions and focus on the survivor’s injuries, losses, and long-term needs.

Where Sexual Assault and Abuse Commonly Occur

We see sexual assault and abuse cases arise in many environments, particularly where supervision, security, or policies were inadequate:

• Apartment complexes, dormitories, and residential housing
• Hotels, motels, resorts, and short-term rentals
• Schools, colleges, and educational programs
• Workplaces and employer-controlled settings
• Nursing homes, assisted living, and care facilities
• Religious, youth, and community organizations
• Bars, nightclubs, and event venues

Negligent Security and Institutional Responsibility

Sexual assault cases often involve negligent security or systemic failures. This may include poor lighting, broken locks, lack of trained staff, failure to respond to prior complaints, inadequate supervision, or failure to enforce safety policies.

When an organization knew or should have known about a risk and failed to act, it may be held legally responsible for the harm that followed.

Who May Be Liable in a Civil Sexual Assault Case

Depending on the facts, responsible parties may include:

• Property owners and landlords
• Property management companies
• Employers and supervisors
• Schools, colleges, and school districts
• Care facilities and healthcare providers
• Security companies and contractors
• Organizations responsible for supervision or safety

Compensation Available to Survivors

Survivors of sexual assault and abuse may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical care and counseling
• Psychological and trauma-related treatment
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity
• Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
• Long-term therapy and support needs

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a criminal conviction to file a civil claim?
No. Civil cases have a different burden of proof and can proceed regardless of whether criminal charges were filed.

Will my identity be protected?
Courts may allow survivors to proceed under privacy protections depending on the circumstances. We prioritize confidentiality and sensitivity.

How long do I have to take legal action?
Deadlines vary based on the facts and when the abuse occurred. Some cases have extended time limits. Speaking with an attorney early helps preserve your rights.

Is this process retraumatizing?
A trauma-informed legal approach focuses on minimizing harm, respecting boundaries, and giving survivors control over how their case proceeds.

Speak With a California Sexual Assault & Abuse Lawyer

Survivors deserve compassion, respect, and accountability. Taking legal action can be a powerful step toward healing and preventing future harm.

The Law Office of Norman Gregory Fernandez is here to help. With nearly 30 years of California personal injury experience, our firm handles these cases with care, discretion, and determination. We focus on protecting survivors and holding negligent institutions accountable.

Confidential consultation: 800-816-1529
Visit: thepersonalinjury.com
No fee unless we win.