California Sexual Abuse Lawyer
You may have come across the term sexual abuse and may wonder what exactly it entails. Sexual abuse is more than just rape. It refers to any unwanted sexual activity. Victims of sexual abuse are typically children. Children cannot consent to sex.
Although men are typically the perpetrators, women can be as well. Most victims know their perpetrator.
Sexual abuse can be a terrifying situation for a child, especially if they know and trust the perpetrator. It can be a highly emotional situation. Contact a California sexual abuse lawyer from The Garza Firm for the right help so you and our child can move on.
Sexual Assault vs. Sexual Abuse
You may have heard the terms sexual assault and sexual abuse used interchangeably. While they are similar, they mean different things under California law.
Sexual assault typically refers to unwanted sexual activity among adults. Assault is generally a one-time event. Sexual abuse, on the other hand, often involves children and is an ongoing situation. The abuser is typically an adult but could be an older child.
However, there are situations in which adults can sexually abused. For example, elderly people with physical or mental conditions may be regularly abused by their caretakers. Abuse can last many months or years.
Types of Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse involves any type of sexual contact between a minor and an abuser, such as the following:
- Unwanted kissing or touching
- Fondling
- Threatening or pressuring someone into unwanted sexual activity
- Child molestation
- Rape or attempted rape
- Sodomy
- Forcing a child to touch their own private parts
- Forcing a child to touch the abuser’s private parts
- Forcing a child to watch the abuser masturbate
- Taking sexually explicit photos and videos of a child
- Forcing a child to look at pornography
Children can be affected by sexual abuse in many ways. They may experience angry outbursts, personality changes, mood swings, and poor performance in school. They may also experience physical signs, such as bruising, injuries to the genital areas, and sexually transmitted diseases.
Where Does Sexual Abuse Happen?
Sexual abuse can happen anywhere. Most cases (55%) happen at or near the victim’s home. They are typically sleeping or performing another activity in their home when the abuse happens. In 15% of cases, the sexual abuse happens out in the open in a public place. Twelve percent of incidents happen at or near the home of a relative. In 10% of cases, the person is victimized at an enclosed public place, such as a parking lot. Eight percent of cases happen on school campuses.
Contact The Garza Firm Today
Sexual abuse is a scary situation for children, disabled adults, and the elderly. They may not be aware of what is happening.
If your loved one has been a victim, seek legal help from The Garza Firm. We’ll guide you through the process. Schedule a consultation with an California sexual abuse lawyer today by calling (949) 570-8350 or filling out the online form.
