Los Angeles Summer Camp Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Los Angeles Summer Camp Sexual Abuse Attorney

Summer camps should be a happy, fun, and character-building time for kids. However, some camps have become the scene of a horrific crime: child sexual abuse. When a child is molested by a counselor, staff member, volunteer, or even another camper, the effects can be felt for a lifetime. At the DeMarco Law Firm, our Los Angeles summer camp sexual abuse lawyers are committed to holding camps and their operators accountable under California law.

What Is Child Sexual Abuse?

Minor individuals face sexual abuse when adults or peers force them into sexual acts through coercion or power exploitation. Abuse during summer camps could occur during an overnight stay, during a situation with minimal supervision, or even within what appears to be normal adult/child interaction. Some common examples of child sexual abuse include touching, fondling, molestation, actual or attempted rape, or grooming behaviors.

Child sexual abuse is a serious crime under both federal and state law. When this happens, you may have grounds for a civil suit to hold both the perpetrator and the responsible organizations accountable.

Why Summer Camp Sexual Abuse Cases Are Unique

Sexual abuse at summer camps has distinct characteristics that set it apart from abuse at other institutions. Camps are often seasonal operations, with many workers who may be volunteers or young counselors, not always subject to the same screening and training as more permanent staff.

Seasonal or temporary employees, combined with often remote or isolated settings, can mean that supervision is less consistent or even absent. Many camp activities occur in cabins, wooded areas, or during overnight trips, where children may be particularly isolated. Furthermore, an abuser may take advantage of their position as a trusted adult to groom or manipulate children.

The complexity of state jurisdictions, or the fact that some camps may be part of larger national networks, can make it more challenging to identify patterns of abuse or locate the parties responsible. Victims may be confused or afraid to report abuse while at camp, leading to delayed reporting, which further complicates legal proceedings.

Childhood Sexual Abuse Statistics

While locating specific recent summer camp sexual abuse statistics is difficult, especially because much of it goes unreported, surveys show that it is a growing concern for families. One survey indicated the following:

• 53% of parents consider safety measures to be the most important consideration when sending their children to camp.
• 45% were very concerned about the potential for sexual abuse.
• 75% of families anticipated sending their child off to camp within the next year.

If you decide to move forward with a claim, your case may be filed in the Stanley Mosk Courthouse in Downtown Los Angeles, where many civil claims related to childhood sexual abuse are filed. The UCLA Rape Treatment Center at Santa Monica Medical Center also treats children and teens who have suffered trauma and may be a resource if you are seeking medical or psychological treatment as a survivor.

How to File a Summer Camp Sexual Abuse Claim

Survivors of sexual abuse at summer camps can seek justice by filing a civil claim. Claims may be filed by the survivor or their parent and can name both the abuser and any organization that failed to protect the child, including the camp itself and any other organizations involved. Under California legislation, multiple legal avenues are available to survivors, including negligence and emotional distress.

If the abuser was criminally convicted, this may help your civil case, but you do not need to wait for a conviction. California has time limits (also known as statutes of limitations) on filing a claim, but it also has long and extended deadlines and a special “lookback window” for older cases of abuse. A Los Angeles summer camp sexual abuse attorney who is experienced with these claims can help ensure that your case is filed correctly and on time.

About DeMarco Law Firm

The DeMarco Law Firm only represents survivors of childhood sexual abuse. This is our focus, not just one of our practice areas. With more than 20 years of experience in serving Los Angeles and neighboring communities, Anthony DeMarco has represented over 400 survivors of childhood sexual abuse in Southern California, all in an effort to bring justice and accountability.

FAQs

What Are the Sexual Laws in California?

Sexual laws in California address sexual behavior, including sexual assault and other crimes, in which one or more participants in sexual activity do not consent to the sexual activity. California’s age of consent is 18.

California’s criminal code imposes especially severe punishments for child sexual abuse. Offenders can be subjected to both civil and criminal penalties in summer camp sexual abuse cases. The summer camp sexual abuse penalties can be harsh.

What Is the 243.4 A Law in California?

The 243.4A in California refers to California Penal Code § 243.4(a) PC. This law says that sexual battery is unwanted touching for sexual arousal or abuse that happens when the victim is unlawfully restrained or unaware of the conduct. It is a “wobbler” that can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. Summer camp sexual abuse penalties include jail time, fines, and sex offender registration.

What Is the Abuse Reporting Law in California?

The abuse reporting law in California is California’s Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA). Under this state law, various professionals must report suspected child abuse or neglect cases to law enforcement or child protective services. A mandated reporter can face criminal charges for not making required reports. Some professionals who fall under this category include pediatricians and teachers.

What Is Defined as Sexual Assault in California?

Sexual assault in California is defined as any non-consensual sexual act. This protects both adults and children. For adults, consent must be expressly given, and it can be revoked at any time. For minors, they receive additional protections, as they are not legally able to consent to sexual acts with adults. There are also protections in place for vulnerable adults, such as those who are mentally or physically impaired.

Hire a Summer Camp Sexual Abuse Lawyer Today

If you or one of your loved ones experienced sexual abuse at a summer camp, DeMarco Law Firm can help you receive the justice you deserve. Contact us today to begin holding the responsible parties accountable. Hire a summer camp sexual abuse lawyer today.