What is California AB 2777 “Sexual Abuse and Cover-Up Accountability Act”?

Maison Law stands with sexual abuse survivors, advocating for your legal rights. While a lawsuit can’t completely undo the harm or criminally penalize offenders, we’re dedicated to using all legal avenues to help you. Contact us today for a free consultation to explore all available options to get the maximum financial support available to you under California law.

California AB 2777 and Sexual Abuse Survivors

Of all the different laws pertaining to sexual abuse in California, one of the most important is Assembly Bill 2777, also known as the “Sexual Abuse and Cover-Up Accountability Act.” Among the law’s many provisions, the most prominent involves the following:

AB 2777 extends the statute of limitations for filing an injury claim for sexual abuse or assault to:

• Lengthens the time limit for filing a civil lawsuit regarding sexual assault to December 31, 2026, if the incident happened after January 1, 2009.
  
  

• Reopens sexual assault cases that were previously dismissed only due to the expiration of the statute of limitations, regardless of when the assault took place.
  
  

• Covers claims against both individuals and organizations, except public entities or agencies, which are exempt.
  
  

• Permits legal actions against entities involved in a “cover-up” of sexual assault, defined as a coordinated effort to conceal evidence related to a sexual assault or prevent information about the assault from being disclosed publicly.
  
  

The reason that this bill was passed isn’t complicated: the traumatic nature of sexual assaults or abuse can have a “chilling” effect on coming forward. As such, many perpetrators and the associated organizations or companies they work for were able to “run out the clock” on these claims. However, even with this added time, filing a claim as a sexual abuse survivor is a difficult process. That’s where our experienced team can help.

Should You Work With Our Lawyers in a California Sexual Abuse Claim?

Being sexually abused is among the worst things a person can experience. Not only can it be physically challenging, but it’s often the mental and emotional damage that is the most impactful, lasting well after the initial incident and usually for the rest of your life. There’s no requirement in the books that says you need to have a lawyer represent you in your claim, but having our experienced team by your side, it can make this emotionally taxing process much easier for you:

• Legal assistance – When it comes to sexual abuse claims, the legal process can be intricate. Our team is well-versed in navigating such cases, possessing the necessary legal expertise to assist and guide you effectively.
  
  

• Understanding of the law – Our lawyers are knowledgeable about California’s sexual abuse laws. We’re also familiar with the specific regulations and statutes relevant to your case, making sure you have comprehensive legal support.
  
  

• Collecting evidence – Our legal team has the capabilities and skills to conduct thorough investigations, gather evidence, and construct a compelling case on your behalf. This is essential for validating the legitimacy of your claims, especially within the specified timeframe of AB 2777.
  
  

• Skilled negotiations – In many instances, sexual abuse claims can be resolved outside of court through negotiations. Our experienced lawyers can skillfully advocate for your rights and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
  
  

• Court representation – If your case proceeds to trial, we are prepared to represent you in court. Our team can present your case convincingly, cross-examine witnesses, and navigate the complexities of court proceedings.
  
  

• Emotional support – Coping with a sexual abuse claim can be emotionally draining. Our lawyers and staff not only offer legal support but also provide guidance and understanding during this challenging period.
  
  

• Easing your burden – Above all, our commitment is to ease your burden and safeguard your rights. We will advocate for you against any efforts to undermine your case.
  
  

Choosing a team with experience in sexual abuse cases and a proven track record is crucial before delving into a claim. We believe our approach sets us apart, and we take pride in representing you.

Who Can Be Legally Responsible in a California Sexual Abuse Claim?

As with any civil claim, the key starting point is figuring out liability–or who is legally responsible for covering your injuries and damages. While it depends heavily on the circumstances, sexual abuse claims can have a wide range of potentially liable parties:

• Perpetrator – The individual who committed the sexual abuse is the primary party responsible for their actions. Under normal circumstances, they would face both criminal charges and civil liability under California law.
  
  

• Facility or institution – If a facility, such as a school, organization, or healthcare institution, knew or should have known about the abuse and failed to take appropriate action to prevent or address it, the institution may be held liable. This includes potential negligence in hiring, training, or supervision.
  
  

• Staff members – If specific staff members within an institution were aware of the abuse or engaged in abusive behavior, they may be individually liable for their actions.
  
  

• Employer or management – The employer or management of an institution can be held responsible if they were aware of the abuse or should have been aware but failed to take corrective action. This may involve inadequate investigation of complaints or failure to protect individuals from harm.
  
  

• Third parties – Individuals or entities not directly employed by the institution but with access to victims and participating in the abuse may also be held legally responsible.
  
  

Again, figuring out who is responsible for the abuse is the main starting point for any civil claim. At the same time, many sexual abuse claims involve one or multiple parties sharing liability.

Damages Available in a California Sexual Abuse Claim

The ultimate goal of AB 2777 is to help survivors of sexual abuse by giving them the time they need. Filing a lawsuit requires courage, but even moreso when there’s sexual abuse involved. Often, the trauma is so severe that it creates difficulty in recalling events or keeping track of a timeline. At the same time, having legal protection is only as good as your willingness to use it. As such, when you file a sexual abuse lawsuit, it’s important to know what can be recovered. Legally speaking, this available financial support is known as “damages,” and can include things like:

• Medical expenses and costs related to mental health services
• Lost wages or earning potential
• Damages related to pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of companionship or enjoyment of life
• Punitive damages, in certain cases. These are meant to provide extra financial support meant to further punish the wrongdoer and anyone else involved for their negligence.
  
  

Dealing with a sexual abuse claim is complex and emotionally challenging. It’s important to have our team with you every step of the way. We’ll guide you, provide support, and represent you against the abuser and anyone else involved. Our goal is your satisfaction, and we’re dedicated to doing everything we can to help you get the support you deserve.

Free Consultations for Sexual Abuse Survivors in California

For victims of sexual abuse in California, holding those responsible accountable can be profoundly emotional and even daunting. That’s why it’s so vital to work with our team of seasoned and dedicated California sexual abuse lawyers at Maison Law. We’ll offer strong representation and support as you stand up for yourself and advocate for the rights of other sexual abuse victims. Reclaim your strength today and contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation.