Woodland Hills Foster Care Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Woodland Hills Foster Care Sexual Abuse Attorney

Being in the foster care system can already bring challenges and negative emotions to a child, and they shouldn’t have to deal with the consequences of sexual abuse on top of it. If you suspect that a child has been the victim of molestation or sexual assault, you can bring them justice and protection by seeking the counsel of a seasoned Woodland Hills foster care sexual abuse lawyer.

What to Know About the DeMarco Law Firm

The DeMarco Law Firm is a legal practice based in Southern California, focusing solely on representing victims of child molestation. We are dedicated to standing up for survivors of child sex abuse and their families by providing unwavering support, protection, and experienced legal guidance. Our team is small but focused; each staff member is a professional committed to holding abusers accountable and preventing further harm from befalling more victims.

When to Hire a Foster Care Sexual Abuse Lawyer in Woodland Hills

It is estimated that about 90 percent of child sexual abuse is committed by an individual whom the child or their family already knows and likely trusts. It is also believed that at least one in 20 boys and one in four girls experience sexual abuse in the United States on average.

Child sexual abuse is a broad category of unlawful acts involving sexual conduct between an adult and a minor, or even between minors, where there is a significant age gap or power imbalance. Regardless of whether a sex act or behavior was “forced” or believed to be consensual, it is against the law because children are incapable of providing informed consent.

Sexual abuse may involve direct contact, such as molestation, rape, or fondling, but it can also include indirect contact, such as indecent exposure, engaging in a sexual conversation, or exposing a minor to pornography. If you know a child who may have been subjected to any of these acts, be sure to hire a foster care sexual abuse lawyer.

Why You Should Work With a Qualified Attorney

There are several benefits to hiring a qualified Woodland Hills foster care sexual abuse attorney, such as our lead attorney at the DeMarco Law Firm. California foster care sexual abuse laws can be complex and difficult to navigate for those who aren’t familiar with the various processes involved. When you have an experienced legal professional for your foster care sexual abuse case, you can feel confident that the proceedings are handled swiftly and thoroughly.

If a foster care sexual abuse case in Woodland Hills involves criminal prosecution, it is most likely to go through the Van Nuys Courthouse West, at 14400 Erwin Street Mall. Depending on the details of the case, including whether your goals include seeking civil damages, the legal venue that may handle the proceedings can vary. Your lawyer can confirm the courthouse where your case will be held.

No matter the situation, your lawyer can investigate it, collect evidence, and fight for justice in your case.

FAQs

Am I Required to Report Foster Care Sexual Abuse?

Generally, yes, all forms of child abuse, including sexual abuse, must be reported by certain individuals in California. Mandated reporters include professionals such as:

• Social workers
• Teachers
• Counselors
• Therapists
• Doctors
• Other roles that have routine contact with children

These reporters are mandated to report any suspected child abuse, including neglect, exploitation, and sexual, emotional, or physical abuse, quickly and in writing. Failing to report suspected abuse can result in criminal charges and penalties.

How Does Foster Care Sexual Abuse Go Unnoticed?

Unfortunately, child sexual abuse in the foster care system can often go unnoticed for several reasons. Common reasons include:

• Background checks being poorly conducted or not performed at all
• Previous complaints or reports of abuse going unchecked
• Lack of sufficient child supervision
• Lack of case management
• Failure to remove the child from an abusive environment

It’s critical to act on any suspected abuse because such misconduct has the potential to negatively impact the child for life.

What Are Signs of Child Sexual Abuse in Foster Care?

It can be difficult to notice signs of child sexual abuse in foster care environments because many children have already experienced some form of trauma. It’s important to recognize these signs to prevent the child from sustaining further harm:

• Self-harm
• An uneasiness around certain adults or places
• Performing poorly in school
• Anxiety
• Anger
• Depression

There may also be sudden behavioral changes, like:

• A lack of interest in their hobbies
• Reservation and withdrawal
• An increase in sexual behavior or conversations

Can Damages Be Recovered for Child Sexual Abuse?

Yes, it is possible to recover damages in a child sexual abuse case if a civil claim is filed. This allows survivors to pursue compensation for the losses they otherwise wouldn’t have sustained if they weren’t the victims of abuse and negligence.

Typically, a compensatory settlement includes economic and non-economic damages. Economic losses can include:

• Past and future medical or psychiatric care
• Reduced ability to earn
• Lost wages

Non-economic damages cover physical pain, emotional suffering, and similar losses.

What Is Considered Child Sexual Abuse in California?

Child sexual abuse may include a variety of behaviors and acts. In California, the sexual abuse of a minor can involve:

• Sex acts entailing penetration
• Sexual touching between an adult and a minor
• Voyeurism
• Exhibitionism
• Exposing a child to pornography
• Abusing them during the production of explicit material
• Sexual exploitation

If you’re unsure whether something may be considered abuse, you can consult a qualified attorney.

Strong Legal Representation for Victims of Child Sexual Abuse

At the DeMarco Law Firm, we understand that child sexual abuse is one of the most difficult experiences one could go through. We can make sure you or those you care about don’t have to face it alone. Whether you’re acting on behalf of a child in your life or seeking justice for abuse you experienced as a child, we can help. Contact our team today to schedule a consultation with an experienced child sexual abuse lawyer.