Maison Law stands with survivors of sexual abuse at California detention centers, 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.
What Damages Can You Get in a Sexual Abuse Claim Against Camp Glenn Rockey?
Getting justice for sexual abuse at Camp Glenn Rockey means dealing with the legal system in California, and it takes a lot of courage, even with the law on your side. Maison Law is here to give you strong support during this tough process. Though each case is different, the basic steps for these claims–and the damages you can recover–include:
- Filing a civil lawsuit in court – Your claim by officially filing a Complaint in civil court against entities like Camp Rockey, Los Angeles County, perpetrators, and others involved.
Successful claims may lead to recovery for various damages, which is the legal term for your injuries and losses that resulted because of your abuse:
- Medical expenses – This category of damages deals with the actual medical treatment, ongoing care, and therapy you need as a result of the abuse.
- Mental anguish – These damages are expenses related to therapy and care for psychological trauma.
- Emotional distress – Emotional distress damages, as the name suggests, covers the emotional distress and associated costs stemming from the abuse.
- Pain and suffering – Pain and suffering damages take into account the physical pain and mental suffering resulting from the abuse.
- Loss of companionship or quality of life – These damages are geared toward the impact on relationships and overall quality of life.
- Punitive damages – Additional awards penalizing involved institutions for gross or negligent care, acting as a deterrent against future misconduct.
Claims Process
While these damages are generally available, going through the legal process is the way you can reach them. Before you decide to move forward, you should take advantage of our free consultations. It’s here that our team can guide you on expectations. After filing your Complaint in civil court, the subsequent steps usually involve:
- Discovery – This phase involves formal requests for evidence, documents, and answers to questions. It can also involve depositions.
- Mediation – Throughout your case, we’ll engage in settlement discussions. Then, often right before trial, including mediation overseen by an objective third-party mediator.
- Trial – If the case doesn’t settle, it may go to trial. This is where we will present your case, evidence, and witnesses, with the jury making a decision and awarding damages. Our team will stand by your interests throughout this entire process.
It’s important to note that the legal process can vary based on your case details. However, working with our team ensures the protection of your rights and interests, along with essential emotional support as you confront the institution and perpetrators in court.
Who’s Liable in a Sexual Abuse Claim Against Camp Rockey?
Even though allegations and incidents of sexual abuse at Camp Rockey is unfortunately part of a juvenile detainees time at the camp, any claim related to sexual abuse there will hinge on figuring out who is responsible. Liability in a sexual abuse claim isn’t just about the person who did it, especially when the abuse happens in the juvenile detention system. Essentially, liability is determined by showing that the Camp:
- Didn’t take reasonable steps to stop sexual abuse and allowed an environment where it could happen, causing harm or injury to you.
Under this definition, several parties could be responsible, including:
- The person who committed the abuse
- Authorities in charge of the camp
- The county government
- Camp staff
- Outside parties like contractors working at the camp
Do You Need a Lawyer?
No matter who played a role in your abuse, our experienced lawyers at Maison Law can help you through the legal process to hold them accountable. We can do this in the following ways:
- Legal guidance – Our team will provide essential guidance on the legal aspects of filing a sexual abuse claim against Camp Rockey, explaining your rights, the legal process, and the potential outcomes.
- Investigation – We conduct thorough investigations to gather evidence supporting your claim. This may involve interviewing witnesses, obtaining documents, and collaborating with experts.
- Building a strong case – Not surprisingly, we’ll work hard to compile a strong case on your behalf, presenting evidence to support your claims.
- Emotional support – Dealing with sexual abuse claims can be emotionally challenging. Our team understands this and offers support and understanding throughout the legal process, making sure you feel heard and supported.
Deadline to File a Sexual Abuse Claim Against Camp Rockey
A crucial aspect of a sexual abuse claim is the legal deadline for filing, known as the “statute of limitations.” In sexual abuse cases, two significant legislative acts determine this deadline:
- Assembly Bill 218 (AB 218) – AB 218, or the Child Victims Act, allows claims to be filed until:
- You turn 40 or;
- Within 5 years of discovering injury from the abuse.
The aim is to provide survivors with sufficient time to file a claim.
- Assembly Bill 452 (AB 452) – AB 452, known as the Justice For Survivors Act, removes the statute of limitations for sexual abuse incidents occurring after January 1, 2024. For inmates in California, including those at Camp Rockey, that face sexual abuse after this date, there’s no deadline to file a claim. If the abuse occurred before January 1, 2024, AB 218’s statute of limitations remains in effect.
Overcoming the aftermath of sexual abuse as a former detainee at Camp Rockey poses significant challenges. However, it’s crucial to recognize that you possess legal rights in California, and you don’t need to confront these challenges on your own. Maison Law and our dedicated team are here to support you.
Experienced California Sexual Abuse Lawyers Will Stand With You
Sexual abuse is a major issue for juvenile detainees at Camp Glenn Rockey. Whether you’re a former or current detainee who experienced abuse during your time there, Maison Law and our dedicated California sexual abuse lawyers are here to guide you through the challenging process of filing a lawsuit and seeking justice. Don’t face the process alone. Contact us today for a free consultation.
