Dedicated Sexual Assault Attorneys Representing Survivors in California
Anyone can be a victim of sexual assault or harassment, regardless of gender or age. If someone has forced or coerced you to perform sex acts, touched you against your will, or made unwanted advances or comments in the workplace, you may have been sexually assaulted or harassed.
California has strict laws protecting people from assault, particularly from people in a position of power. If you have been assaulted or harassed, you may have the right to take legal action against the person who harmed you.
At Fiore Achermann, we are dedicated to helping people take a stand against sexual abuse. Our experienced California sexual abuse lawyers, Jennifer Fiore, Sophia Achermann, and Alexandra Hamilton, have the knowledge and skills to help you pursue justice for your suffering. Learn more about how we can help by calling (415) 550-0650 or reaching out online.
The Impact of Sexual Assault
Any form of sexual attack can have significant impacts on survivors. Many assaults lead to substantial physical harm or otherwise require medical care. It may be necessary to get treatment for sexually transmitted infections or get emergency prophylaxis to prevent unwanted pregnancies. In addition, survivors often need therapy and mental health support after the attack.
These medical expenses are why survivors benefit from working with experienced California sexual assault lawyers. They can help you pursue just compensation for the costs associated with recovering from your attack.
The California Ralph Act’s Protections Against Sexual Abuse
The Ralph Act amends the California Civil Code to protect residents and visitors to the state from “any violence, or intimidation by threat of violence, committed against their persons or property” because of protected traits such as sex or gender. This act specifically allows victims to hold organizations accountable for hate crimes their employees commit when they are at work.
The Ralph Act has been found to cover sexual assaults and harassment. Most assaults are committed because of the perpetrator’s perception of the victim’s gender or sex. As such, if you are assaulted by someone while they work, their employer may be found liable for their actions.
Rideshare Sexual Abuse
The Ralph Act applies in many situations, but it is particularly valuable for people who have suffered from rideshare sexual harassment or assault. Too many rideshare drivers are willing to take advantage of their passengers. If you are sexually attacked by a rideshare driver, the Ralph Act may allow you to hold their employers accountable.
Sexual Harassment and Assault of Older Adults
Many older adults are unfortunately vulnerable to sex-based assaults, especially those in residential care facilities. However, these adults are protected by multiple laws. In California, assaulting someone over 65 is considered elder abuse, even if the attack does not meet the definition of sex-based attacks. In addition, the Ralph Act also applies to medical workers who assault their patients because of their sex or gender. If you or an older loved one has been assaulted, you can hold your attacker accountable for the harm they caused.
Child Sexual Abuse
Children are deeply vulnerable to all forms of abuse. This is particularly true of sexual abuse, which many children do not recognize as harmful until years after they have been victimized. If your child has suffered from sex abuse, or if you were sexually assaulted as a child, you deserve expert help. Children should never have to suffer sexual harassment by teachers, religious leaders, or family members. While it may be too late to prevent you or your child from facing childhood sexual assault, it’s not too late to get help. Working with an attorney for childhood abuse victims can help you fight back.
Contact Our California Law Firm for Victims of Sexual Assault
At Fiore Achermann, we aim to help you stand up against sex predators and seek the compensation you need to recover. Contact the California sexual assault attorneys at Fiore Achermann for a free consultation to discuss your options. They stand ready to assist you in your fight for justice.
