California AB 218: Extended Childhood Sexual Abuse Statute of Limitations

California AB 218 fundamentally transformed the legal landscape for survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Signed into law in 2019, this landmark legislation extended the childhood sexual abuse statute of limitations, even eliminating the statute altogether in certain cases. Now, survivors no longer face the same arbitrary deadlines that once forced them to choose between silence and justice.

Whether the abuse occurred decades ago or more recently, California law now recognizes that trauma, shame, and fear of retaliation can delay a survivor’s ability to come forward. Still, for many survivors, understanding these legal changes is only the first step.

If you or a loved one once experienced childhood sexual abuse in schools, sports organizations, daycare facilities, or other institutions, now is the time to hire a child sexual abuse lawyer. When you seek legal representation from DeMarco Law Firm, you’re entrusting your case to a California child sexual abuse attorney who understands the nuances of California AB 218 and can evaluate whether your claim is actionable under current law.

About California AB 218 and Victim Compensation

California AB 218 is codified as California Code of Civil Procedure §340.1. Survivors across California, from Los Angeles and San Diego to Sacramento, the Bay Area, the Central Valley, and the Inland Empire, can rely on child sexual abuse laws outlined in state statutes to bring claims against institutional defendants across the state.

While case outcomes and the child sexual abuse penalties imposed on offenders can vary from situation to situation, victims who seek compensation can receive significant financial recovery. The California Victim Compensation Board reported the following figures for the year 2024-2025:

• The Board paid $44,909,499 in compensation claims.
• Total child abuse payments came to $2,600,897.
• Sexual assault payments totaled $1,839,417.

Whether located in a major metropolitan area or a rural county, California child sexual abuse laws apply statewide. You have the right to pursue a claim to get compensation for the injustice you endured, and legal resources are available regardless of geographic location.

Abuse That Occurred in Youth Organizations as Addressed by California AB 218

The Child Welfare League of America reported that in 2023, there were 47,824 children who were victims of abuse or neglect in The Golden State. Of the cases reported, sexual abuse accounted for 4.7% of maltreatment. On top of this, 14% of offenders in maltreatment cases such as sexual abuse, physical abuse, psychological maltreatment, and neglect were adults who weren’t the child’s parents, but still someone they had a relationship with.

It’s common for a coach, teacher, or youth organization leader to be the non-parent inflicting abuse on a child. This is because a power imbalance often exists between adults and students as it is, and the offender took advantage of their access to children and created an environment for abuse and grooming.

When looking at sports culture, specifically, a recent survey revealed that 43.3% of athletes who were subjected to unwanted sexual experiences reported that at least one of these events took place when they were younger than 18. Under AB 218, youth sports programs, martial arts studios, gymnastics clubs, and more can face child sexual abuse penalties for failing to protect young athletes from predatory coaches and volunteers.

Hire a Child Sexual Abuse Lawyer

California criminal law imposes serious child sexual abuse penalties on perpetrators. California Penal Code Section 290, specifically, imposes:

• Lengthy prison sentences
• Mandatory sex offender registration
• Lifetime supervision

California AB 218 operates in the civil arena, allowing survivors to seek monetary damages from both individual perpetrators and the institutions that harbored them. When you hire a child sexual abuse lawyer, they can pursue these civil claims independently of any criminal proceedings. This means a survivor’s civil rights exist regardless of whether a criminal case was ever filed or resolved.

Why Choose DeMarco Law Firm

DeMarco Law Firm has spent over 20 years advocating exclusively for survivors of childhood sexual abuse throughout California. Our California child sexual abuse attorneys have handled complex institutional liability cases involving schools, youth organizations, religious entities, and childcare facilities across the state.

Our team has recovered meaningful compensation for survivors in cases once considered beyond legal reach. While the outcomes of every case depend on the unique circumstances and facts, not a lawyer’s experience or past results, our dedication to protecting children and holding negligent institutions accountable for past and present injustices never wavers.

FAQs

Does California AB 218 Apply to Cases Involving Public Entities?

Yes, California AB 218 does apply to cases involving public entities, such as schools, municipalities, and government agencies. Survivors can file civil claims for childhood sexual abuse even when the defendant is a public institution. However, procedural requirements, like filing notices of claim, may still apply under California’s Government Claims Act.

What Is the 5-Year Statute of Limitations in California?

The 5-year statute of limitations in California is outlined in the Code of Civil Procedure §583.310. Once a childhood sexual abuse claim is filed, it must be brought to trial within five years after commencement against the defendant. This mandatory trial deadline is separate from the statute of limitations. Survivors filing under AB 218 should retain experienced counsel to maintain momentum and avoid dismissal.

Can Child Sexual Abuse Survivors File a Claim Anonymously Under California AB 218?

Yes, child sexual abuse survivors can file a claim anonymously under California AB 218. Using a pseudonym, like Jane or John Doe, instead of their given name can help protect their identity from public disclosure. Judges evaluate anonymity requests case by case, balancing survivor privacy against defendant due process rights.

What Is the Look-Back Period for Sexual Assault in California?

The look-back period for sexual assault in California is two years, from January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2027. This lets survivors revive previously time-barred civil claims regardless of age or when the abuse occurred. The extended statute of limitations gives survivors the chance they deserve to seek justice, no matter how much time has gone by since the incident.

Take the First Step Toward Holding Abusers Accountable Today

Survivors of childhood sexual abuse in California do not have to face this journey alone. AB 218 removed the legal barriers that once silenced so many people across this state, so contact DeMarco Law Firm today. Our team handles every case with sensitivity, discretion, and a relentless commitment to seeking the justice each survivor deserves.