Your Rights Under California’s Sexual Abuse Statute Extension Law
California, known for being a state that fights tirelessly for victims and those wronged by the justice system, has lived up to its reputation in its recent sexual abuse statute extension laws. These laws make it easier for victims of childhood sexual abuse to seek justice and hold their abusers accountable. Wondering if your case applies? It’s time to reach out to a clergy sexual abuse lawyer to find out if you can sue.
For decades, the legal team at DeWitt Algorri & Algorri, LLP has advocated for victims throughout Southern California. Our team is comprised of highly experienced personal injury and clergy sexual abuse attorneys who know how important it is that victims get the justice they deserve. Call us at 855-WINNING (946-6464) to set up a time to meet with our team.
What is the Sexual Abuse Extension?
Prior to recent changes in California law, victims had a fairly limited period of time in which to take action against perpetrators of sexual abuse. This left many victims without recourse, particularly those who were victimized as children or who were groomed and did not realize that they had been victimized. While AB 218 focuses on the rights of minors, AB 2777 focuses on adult survivors.
Before AB 2777, the statute of limitations in California was either 10 years from the date of the sexual abuse or three years from the date on which the victim realized or should have realized they were harmed.
AB 2777 provides a lookback window for victims whose previous claims had been limited by the old statute of limitations. From January of 2023 to December of 2026, those who suffered sexual assault on or after January 1, 2009 can file claims.
Your Rights as a Survivor
We understand that confronting these issues can be extremely mentally draining and traumatizing, which is why working with a clergy sexual abuse law firm may help you approach this issue while limiting your direct exposure.
If you were the victim of sexual assault after January 1, 2009, and you had previously been unable to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party because the statute of limitations had expired, you may use this lookback period to once again seek closure. It’s important to note that, under this law, you cannot revive claims that have already been litigated or that have been settled via written agreement.
You have a right to tell your story and to hold the people who harmed you accountable. Abusers have long kept their victims silent, and unfortunately, old statute of limitations laws allowed them to do so. But the trauma of an assault doesn’t end when the statute of limitations expires, and with legal assistance, you may be able to get the closure and justice you need.
What is the Date of Discovery?
One topic that often confuses survivors is the date of the assault versus the date of discovery. Our clergy sexual abuse law firm has helped numerous survivors navigate this issue. It is entirely possible for survivors of sexual assault to block out what they’ve experienced, particularly if it happened at a formative age, when they were impaired or intentionally drugged by the assailant, or when they have a history of mental health concerns. In these scenarios, a victim may to realize what has happened until years later. Different triggers can bring these memories to the forefront, including running into the assailant, going to therapy, or revisiting the site of the assault.
How Legal Representation Can Help
Our team of clergy sexual abuse lawyers has helped victims of sexual abuse fight for justice, regardless of the perpetrator. Many claims relate to those in positions of power, including clergy, teachers, and employers. We understand the unique challenges survivors face and the mental, emotional, and legal hurdles they must clear to bring closure to a difficult chapter in their lives.
Reach Out to DeWitt Algorri & Algorri Today
If you’re ready to discuss your potential case with our clergy sexual abuse attorneys, we’re here to support you and advocate for you. Let’s schedule a confidential consultation to discuss what happened to you and how we can help you seek closure. Contact us online or call us at 855-WINNING (946-6464) now.
Mark Algorri has successfully represented individuals and their families in matters involving serious and catastrophic injuries, insurance claims denials, and wrongful deaths, achieving a success rate of 99 percent for our clients.
