There is a chance for residents of California who have experienced any form of sexual assault to seek justice. This was extended in 2019, as the time limit for child sexual abuse lawsuits.
You may be able to file a claim if you or your child experienced sexual abuse.
California Statute of Limitations for Sex Abuse Lawsuits
Some people may hesitate to seek justice or compensation for abuse that happened years ago. California recently changed its laws on the statute of limitations for child molestation cases, giving more time to file claims or pursue criminal charges.
In 2019, California extended the time limit for civil child molestation claims. Now, individuals who were assaulted have until their 40th birthday to file a lawsuit. There’s an exception if someone is diagnosed with psychological injury after turning 40; they have five years from the diagnosis to file a claim, regardless of their age.
Accusations Involving Sexual Abuse in Children
The Truth Project played a major role in an inquiry into child sexual abuse. Their 2019 report, “Child Sexual Abuse in the Context of Religious Institutions,” included stories from almost 1,700 abused children. Out of these, 183 reported that the abuse was done by someone linked to the religious organization they attended, such as other church members or staff.
Several religious organizations have faced accusations involving sexual abuse in children, including:
- Southern Baptist Convention
- Catholic Church
- United Methodist Church
- Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (The Mormon Church)
- Jehovah’s Witnesses
- Church of Scientology
- Presbyterian Church
Different Signs of Sexual Abuse in children
There are different signs to watch out for in a sexual abused children.
One of sexual abuse in children often causes physical trauma like bleeding or bruising in the genital area. If a child tests positive for sexually transmitted infections, it strongly suggests they may have been abused. In addition, changes in a child’s behavior can also indicate they have experienced sexual abuse.
They may also reveal specific emotional signs, some of these include —
- Intense fearfulness
- Lowered confidence
- Excessive anxiety
- Altered eating habits
- Bad dreams
- Shifts in mood
- Self-injury
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