Woodland Hills Private School Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Woodland Hills Private School Sexual Abuse Attorney

Children should be allowed to learn and enjoy school without facing and suffering the impacts of sexual abuse. Unfortunately, this is not always the case, even within private schools, which are often thought to be more exclusive and prestigious than public schools. If you suspect that a child you know has been sexually assaulted, don’t hesitate to consult a skilled Woodland Hills private school sexual abuse lawyer.

About the DeMarco Law Firm

At the DeMarco Law Firm, our team is committed to providing protection and support to victims of child sexual abuse and their loved ones. We expose their abusers and hold them accountable. Our firm focuses solely on working with survivors of child molestation, making sure they find justice and resolution for their situation.

When to Hire a Private School Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Each year, tens of thousands of teenagers and children are victims of sexual abuse across the U.S. It is estimated that 90% of cases were perpetrated by someone the child or their family trusted, with research showing that at least one in four girls and one in 20 boys face sexual abuse.

Child sexual abuse is defined as any sexual conduct or act between an adult and a minor, or between minors themselves, when coercion or a power imbalance occurs. Sexual abuse can include contact, such as rape, molestation, or fondling, as well as non-contact behaviors, including grooming, voyeurism, sexually charged dialogue, showing pornography, and similarly inappropriate conduct.

Perpetrators are often an adult that the minor already knows and likely trusts, including teachers and other staff members at their school. If you have noticed any of these changes or behaviors in your child or a child you encounter, you should hire a private school sexual abuse lawyer right away:

• Emotional changes, such as signs of feeling distrustful, guilty, shameful, hopeless, or powerless, along with feelings of worthlessness, anger, depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem
• Physical signs, including trouble sitting or walking, contracting a sexually transmitted disease, having a urinary or yeast infection, difficulty urinating or passing a bowel movement, and becoming pregnant. Other physical signs include torn undergarments, bloody underwear or diapers, and symptoms of pain, itching, bruising, swelling, or other irritation in the genital area.
• Behavioral changes, such as the child developing a fear of being touched or other intense fears, suicidal thoughts, changes in hygiene habits, shame surrounding puberty or menstruation, avoidance towards certain places or people, becoming easily startled, showing signs of age regression, and saying or doing things that are sexually inappropriate for their age

How an Experienced Sexual Abuse Lawyer Can Help

A skilled Woodland Hills private school sexual abuse attorney, such as our lead attorney at the DeMarco Law Firm, has likely handled cases very similar to yours. A legal professional who has a deep understanding of private school sexual abuse laws can streamline the legal process. A capable lawyer can also fight on your behalf, representing you in any legal setting while providing insightful counsel.

Criminal proceedings for a private school sexual abuse case in Woodland Hills are most likely to be processed in the Van Nuys Courthouse West at 14400 Erwin Street Mall, Van Nuys, CA 91401. Depending on the factors of the situation, including the institution where the unlawful activity took place, and your goals in bringing the case forward, the courthouse that may oversee the proceedings can vary. Your attorney can confirm your legal venue’s location.

FAQs

Is a Report of Child Sexual Abuse Confidential in CA?

In California, a report of suspected child sexual abuse or neglect is confidential under state law. This means that the identity of the mandated or voluntary reporter of the misconduct is protected from public knowledge, including the family of the victim.

The purpose of this confidentiality is to encourage honest reporting and protect the reporter from attempts at retribution. However, the records of the report itself are accessible to certain authorized parties, such as the courts and law enforcement.

What Are Signs of Child Sexual Abuse in Private Schools?

It is important to remain aware of the potential signs of child sexual abuse, including within private school settings, because abuse is often not immediately apparent. Some physical signs of sexual abuse include difficulty walking or sitting and irritation in the genital area.

Emotional changes, such as showing signs of distrust, shame, anger, depression, or anxiety, can also be indicators. Other behavioral signs include a fear of being touched, being easily startled, self-harm, and avoiding certain places or people.

Am I Required to Report Suspected Child Sexual Abuse?

In California, certain individuals are required by law to report suspected child sexual abuse. These mandated reporters include:

• Teachers
• Other school personnel who interact with children on a regular basis
• Therapists
• Counselors
• Clergy members
• Doctors
• Similar professionals

As a mandated reporter, the person must report an instance of suspected child abuse in writing as soon as possible. Those who fail to make a timely report may face criminal charges and penalties, such as fines and even jail time.

How Do I File a Child Sexual Abuse Claim in California?

To file a child sexual abuse claim, you should consult a private school abuse lawyer. A child sexual abuse attorney can guide you through the reporting process. Before your case evaluation, it is helpful to gather any evidence you may have that can support your claims. A sexual abuse lawyer can also conduct their own investigation to collect further information. Your lawyer can then file a claim that the school was negligent on your behalf, separate from a criminal case.

Speak With a Skilled Lawyer About Your Abuse

At the DeMarco Law Firm, we understand how difficult child sexual abuse matters can be to deal with, so we can give your case the time and dedication it deserves. Whether you experienced private school sexual abuse when you were younger or wish to act on behalf of a child currently experiencing abuse, we can help. Reach out to us today to schedule a meeting with a kind and qualified child sexual abuse attorney.