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.
How is Liability Determined in a Sexual Abuse Claim Against Central Juvenile Hall?
While under its custody, you and other survivors were owed a reasonably safe environment at Central Juvenile Hall. Being subjected to sexual abuse, obviously, was a breach of this duty and is the main component in assessing civil liability.
Still, it can sometimes be difficult to nail down all the liable parties. Usually, though, it’s the following:
- The abuser
- Authorities in charge of the camp
- The county government
- Staff officers and members
- External parties, like contractors operating at the site
Legal Process in a Sexual Abuse Claim Against Central Juvenile Hall
If you experienced sexual abuse while you were a detainee at Central Juvenile Hall, you have the right to take legal action against those accountable. Firstly, though, it’s crucial to file your claim in time. This is set by the following law:
- Assembly Bill 218 – AB 218, also known as the Child Victims Act, permits claims to be lodged either until you reach 40 years of age or within 5 years of discovering injury or harm resulting from the abuse. This statute is designed to provide you and other survivors with adequate time to submit a claim.
Even with the extra time provided, making the decision to move forward with a lawsuit can be intimidating, especially going up against your abuser and the county government. However, our team is here to provide support and protection at every step. Here’s how we can assist:
- Thorough investigation – We will meticulously examine instances of abuse to construct a strong case.
- Compelling evidence – Our team will gather and present persuasive evidence to bolster your case.
- Protecting your rights and interests – During negotiations, we will advocate for your rights to ensure a fair resolution.
When you choose to move forward, we start by submitting your Complaint to the court. This document outlines your claims and the damages you’re seeking. Following this, your case may go through the following stages:
- Exchanging evidence – Known as “discovery,” this is the formal exchange of requests for evidence, documents, and responses to questions. It also includes depositions, which we’ll prepare you for.
- Negotiating – As the case progresses, there will be discussions with the opposing side regarding resolution. Then, prior to trial, there could be court-mandated mediation that’s overseen by an impartial third-party mediator.
- Jury trial – If the case doesn’t settle, it progresses to an actual jury trial, involving the presentation of your case, evidence, and witnesses. Our team provides continuous support throughout.
Damages
Despite the similarities in the circumstances of many sexual abuse cases, every case proceeds in its own unique way. That said, there are some general “damages” that are available in any claim, including yours:
- Economic damages – This category of damages is meant to cover tangible financial losses like medical expenses and lost income that came about because of the abuse.
- Non-economic damages – Addressing intangible harms such as pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
- Punitive damages – These are additional damages awarded in cases of gross negligence or recklessness. In instances of sexual abuse, there might be a compelling argument for such damages.
Moreover, victims may have the opportunity to recover attorney’s fees and other expenses incurred during the legal process in certain situations. Overall, the path to file a sexual abuse claim in California requires courage. With Maison Law’s support, we’re dedicated to standing with you throughout the process, offering the help and validation you need to see your claim through to the end.
Why Did Sexual Abuse Happen at Central Juvenile Hall?
Despite its closure in May 2023 after being deemed “unsuitable” to house juvenile detainees, Central Juvenile Hall was for many years one of the foremost detention centers in the LA County system. During this time, detainees frequently alleged incidents of sexual abuse. But the question of why this happened deals more with several important factors:
- Power dynamics – Staff may misuse authority, exploiting vulnerable detainees.
- Lack of oversight – Insufficient monitoring allows staff to engage in abuse without consequences.
- Staff training – Inadequate training hinders recognizing and reporting sexual abuse.
- Policies and procedures – Weak guidelines may lead to unnoticed abuse.
- Culture of silence – Detainees fear reporting, contributing to widespread abuse.
- Vulnerability of detainees – Juvenile inmates facing mental health issues or substance abuse problems may be more susceptible to abuse, and staff members may exploit these vulnerabilities for their own gain.
No matter what the underlying factors are, the fact remains that sexual abuse at Central Juvenile Hall or anywhere else is a huge betrayal of the stated purpose of the juvenile detention system. By taking legal action and with the help of our team, you can hold your abusers and those responsible for enabling them accountable.
Protect Your Rights With Maison Law
At Maison Law, we recognize that sexual abuse within juvenile detention centers is a concerning problem that goes on, often without accountability. Our team takes pride in our approach to these cases, offering individualized support, approaching your situation with utmost respect. Whether you or someone you know has survived sexual abuse at Central Juvenile Hall or any other California juvenile detention center, we are dedicated to protecting your rights.
Contact us today to set up a free consultation to begin the process.
