Thousands of people have come forward to reveal that a member of the clergy abused them. It is a sickening crime that happens all over the world. There are thousands of accused clergy members across the country, including many in California. This abuse continues to happen every day. If you were a victim of clergy abuse, you have a right to seek compensation.
Sexual abuse is a crime. The person who abused you and those who allowed the abuse to continue should pay for their crimes. You can recover the damages from your abuse. You have suffered long enough with the memory of what happened. California law has made it easier for people like yourself to get compensated for past abuse.
What happened to you is not your fault. The perpetrator and any institution that protected them are responsible for facing the consequences. You have already had your share of consequences to deal with. Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today. We can see if a Riverside clergy abuse lawyer from our team can help. Our number is (800) 219-9622.
California Child Victims Act
Until October 2019, child victims in California had until they were 26 to report any sexual assault that happened while they were a minor. The updated language in the California Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) §340.1 now states that the victim has until they turn 40 to file a lawsuit. The act also allows for victims to revisit cases where the statute ran out until the end of 2022.
California amended the law because of how difficult it can be for victims to revisit past trauma. It can sometimes take decades for a victim to come forward. Now you have the chance to right a wrong that you have suffered.
The law can be difficult to understand. A Riverside clergy abuse lawyer can listen to the details of your case and tell you how the law applies. You do not need to know the ins and outs of the law because we do.
Abuse Victims Suffer Greatly
People who suffer sexual abuse as children feel the consequences long after the abuse ends. Aside from any physical trauma that may occur, the psychological effects of sexual abuse on a child victim can be life-altering.
Clergy members are often highly regarded and well-respected members of the community. Many people view their clergy as trusted authority figures. This can make it very difficult for a person, let alone a child, to come forward and tell anyone that the clergy member has been abusing them. A child may believe that it is ok because of who the abuser is, or they may fear that no one will believe them.
These fears can make it impossible for a victim to come forward about their abuse for years. They can attempt to cope with the trauma in other ways, on their own. This can lead to a multitude of problems later in life, including:
- Substance abuse
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Problems forming relationships
- Sexual problems
- Depression
- Eating disorders
- Anxiety
It can take years to overcome the shame and guilt associated with sexual abuse to the point that a survivor can reveal what has happened. Until then, they have to pay for the consequences of someone else’s actions.
If you are suffering from these long-term effects of your abuse, you can discuss them with us. Even if you have overcome the challenges stemming from your abuse, you can still seek damages for what you went through in the past. We want to be sure we put together a comprehensive lawsuit to try and get you everything you deserve.
For a free legal consultation with a Clergy Abuse Lawyer serving Riverside, call (800) 794-0444
Abuse Can Take Many Forms
Child sexual abuse is a global problem. It is much more common than a lot of people realize. Clergy abuse occurs around the world, as well. The sexual abuse of a child can take many forms. It can involve rape, inappropriate touching, suggestive language, showing the child explicit images, or forcing the child to witness sexual acts. It does not always necessarily involve touching or physical force.
Children do not have the capacity to understand what is going on, and they certainly cannot give consent to any of these acts. It can be difficult, if not impossible, for them to understand that they are being abused. You and all other children put through this abuse should get justice. The abusers know that what they are doing is wrong.
Sometimes the parishes or dioceses they work for do not do enough to stop the abuse or punish past behavior. These organizations also deserve to pay damages to you for what you have suffered.
These acts cause children to feel guilt, shame, and confusion. What happened to you is a crime, and you have a right to recover damages. We can help you figure out the confusing legalities of your case. It can seem daunting and overwhelming to go up against your abusers and the people who protected them, but we will be by your side. We know the California law, and we want to fight for you.
Riverside Clergy Abuse Lawyer Near Me (800) 794-0444
Call Us Now
We are serving the Riverside, California area, and we want to fight for your right to compensation. You will only pay us if we win. You can receive damages to cover any medical treatment you have had, including psychiatric treatment. You can also pursue damages for the emotional toll the abuse had on you.
A Riverside clergy abuse lawyer can help you navigate the legal work of your lawsuit. You can call us at (800) 219-9622 to discuss the details of your case. We want to help you get compensation for the devastating abuse you suffered. Pintas & Mullins Law Firm is here for you. Let us be on your team to help you and your family recover from your abuse.
Call or text (800) 794-0444 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
