Surviving sexual abuse is deeply traumatic—but pursuing justice shouldn’t be. Dordick Law Corporation has over 35 years of experience helping survivors in Riverside, California, hold abusers and negligent institutions accountable. Riverside sexual abuse attorneys are dedicated to protecting the rights of survivors in Riverside and across California.
Some abusers and negligent institutions never face criminal charges, even when their actions caused life-altering harm. Civil lawsuits offer survivors an opportunity to seek compensation for their pain, suffering, lost income, medical care, and future therapy. Many people choose civil claims because they offer the chance for accountability with a lower burden of proof. Our law firm operates on a contingency fee basis, so clients pay nothing unless they win their case.
The Riverside sexual abuse lawyers of Dordick Law Corporation will prioritize your safety, privacy, and dignity throughout the legal process. Clients receive compassionate and confidential legal representation from an experienced legal team. The dedicated team at Dordick Law Corporation has a strong track record of securing compensation for victims. We guide you with compassion and fierce advocacy every step of the way. If you’re considering a sexual abuse lawsuit or want to understand your rights, contact us today at (310) 551-0949 or contact us online for a confidential case review. Our experienced legal team is ready to assist victims in securing the compensation they deserve.
You don’t have to face this alone—let us fight for the justice you deserve.
Introduction to Sexual Abuse Cases
Sexual abuse is a devastating and traumatic experience that can have profound and lasting effects on survivors of all ages. In Riverside, California, sexual abuse cases are treated with the utmost seriousness, and state law provides strong protections for those who have suffered such harm. Whether the abuse occurred in childhood or adulthood, survivors may have the right to seek justice and hold responsible parties accountable through the legal process.
A Riverside sexual abuse attorney plays a significant role in guiding survivors through the complexities of the law, helping their voices be heard and their rights protected. The California Child Victims Act has been a significant step forward for survivors of child sexual abuse, greatly expanding the time in which many California survivors can file a civil lawsuit against their abusers and, in some cases, reviving previously time‑barred claims. This legislation has empowered many individuals who experienced childhood sexual abuse to come forward, seek justice, and pursue compensation for the harm they endured.
If you or someone you love has experienced sexual abuse, know that you are not alone. The legal system in Riverside is designed to help survivors of sexual abuse pursue justice, hold responsible parties accountable, and begin the process of healing.
Who Can File a Sexual Abuse Civil Lawsuit?
According to the California Department of Public Health, over 33% of women and 25% of men report experiencing sexual violence involving physical contact in their lifetime. An estimated 23 million women in the United States have experienced completed or attempted rape in their lifetimes.
These statistics are horrifying—but survivors of sexual abuse have strong legal rights in California. If you’ve experienced sexual abuse, you may be entitled to pursue financial compensation and other remedies—even if criminal charges were never filed. California law makes it clear that you don’t have to stay silent or accept what happened.
Civil vs. Criminal Paths to Justice
Criminal cases and civil lawsuits serve different purposes. In a criminal case, the government prosecutes the offender to impose penalties such as jail or probation. In a civil case, you—the survivor—bring the case, seeking financial compensation for the harm you’ve suffered. Civil claims often move forward even if there’s no criminal conviction. That’s because the burden of proof is lower, and the focus is on making you whole—not proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Evidence is critical in both civil and criminal cases, as it can support or challenge the claims made. Some cases involve false accusations or false allegations, and the presence or absence of evidence can be decisive. Legal defenses may focus on whether any sexual contact occurred or whether the encounter was consensual sex. The account of the alleged victim may be disputed and supported by testimonies and alibis.
Filing a civil lawsuit provides a path to accountability when the criminal system doesn’t act or provide justice.
Adult and Child Survivors’ Rights
Both adult and child survivors have the right to bring civil claims in California. Child abuse, including child sexual abuse, is a severe crime that often involves perpetrators known to the victim. These cases can seek compensation for emotional suffering, therapy costs, medical expenses, lost wages, and future care. In some cases, survivors may also seek punitive damages. Punitive damages punish egregious conduct and deter others from similar abuse.
California law recognizes that trauma can delay a survivor’s decision to come forward. You may still have a valid claim, even if the abuse happened years ago. A knowledgeable attorney from Dordick Law Corporation can explain your rights and next steps.
Why Choose Dordick Law Corporation to Represent You in Your Sexual Abuse Claim?
Dordick Law Corporation focuses on serious civil cases, including sexual abuse claims. Lead trial lawyer Gary A. Dordick offers more than 35 years of courtroom experience and personally manages every case our firm takes on. Our experienced legal team and dedicated team are committed to each case, and our track record of success in sexual abuse cases demonstrates our ability to deliver results. That hands-on attention allows us to build the strongest possible claims, guided by strategy, compassion, and accountability.
We intentionally limit the number of cases we accept to help each client receives our full focus. Clients receive personalized attention and support throughout the process. Survivors of sexual abuse need more than legal skill—they need an advocate who listens, prepares thoroughly, and refuses to be intimidated by powerful institutions. Whether your claim involves an individual perpetrator or a large organization like a school, church, or employer, we have the experience to hold them accountable.
Our results reflect our strong advocacy and deep compassion. In 2023, we secured a $2.28 billion verdict in Doe v. Fitzgerald—one of the largest sexual abuse verdicts ever awarded in Riverside Superior Court. In 2024, we followed with a $900 million unanimous jury award in Los Angeles for another survivor of sexual assault and harassment. These verdicts were the result of thorough preparation, persuasive trial work, and our commitment to justice.
When you work with Dordick Law Corporation, you get a trial team known for ethical, relentless advocacy. We understand how difficult these cases can be—and we’re here to support you through every step. We believe in keeping communication open with our clients, ensuring you are informed and supported throughout the legal process.”
Types of Sexual Abuse Claims We Handle
The compassionate attorneys at Dordick Law Corporation represent survivors of sexual abuse in a wide range of civil claims. Whether the harm occurred recently or years ago, we work hard to hold individuals and institutions accountable.
Sexual abuse cases can involve complex dynamics and powerful defendants. Being accused or convicted of a crime of a sexual nature can have serious personal and professional consequences, including being labeled a sex offender. We’re here to pursue justice, no matter how complicated the case. Many of the cases we take on involve institutions that failed to prevent or respond to abuse.
Under California law, organizations may be held liable for negligent hiring, supervision, or retention of abusive employees or volunteers. They may also be accountable for covering up known abuse or allowing a dangerous environment to persist.
We represent survivors in cases against:
- Individual actors who perpetrated the abuse
- Public and private schools that ignored reports or allowed predators continued access to students
- Religious institutions, including churches and dioceses, that protected clergy or volunteers at the expense of victims
- Youth organizations, such as scouting groups or camps, that failed to implement safety policies or respond to warning signs
- Employers who allowed harassment or assault by supervisors or coworkers to go unchecked
- Medical facilities and therapists involved in boundary violations or abuse under the guise of treatment
- Foster care agencies and group homes where vulnerable youth suffered preventable harm
- Landlords or housing providers who used their position to exploit tenants or ignored complaints of sexual misconduct
Every survivor’s story is different. Whether the abuse happened in childhood or adulthood, we listen carefully, investigate thoroughly, and pursue full accountability from each party.
Riverside Sexual Abuse Resources
Victims of sexual abuse in Riverside have access to a variety of resources designed to support their recovery and pursuit of justice. Local organizations, such as Riverside Area Rape Crisis Center and REACH (serving Southwest Riverside County), offer free and confidential counseling, advocacy, and support groups for those affected by sexual assault. Many of these providers operate 24-hour hotlines so that help is always available, giving immediate assistance and guidance to victims in crisis.
Statewide organizations, such as ValorUS (formerly the California Coalition Against Sexual Assault), also offer valuable resources, including information, referrals, and advocacy for victims of sexual abuse. These services can be a lifeline for individuals seeking support, understanding, and empowerment as they navigate the aftermath of abuse.
A Riverside sexual abuse attorney can help victims connect with these local and statewide resources, ensuring they receive the emotional and practical support needed to move forward. Whether you are seeking justice, healing, or both, you do not have to face this journey alone—help is available.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re considering a sexual abuse lawsuit, you likely have plenty of questions. Here are some of the most common questions we receive:
How long do I have to file a sexual abuse claim?
California law gives adult survivors of sexual assault up to 10 years from the last act of abuse or three years from discovering an injury caused by abuse to file a civil claim. For child survivors, the window is even longer. However, the specific deadline for a minor’s civil claim depends on when the abuse occurred and other case‑specific factors, so there is not a single unlimited time period that applies to every claim involving a minor. In many situations, California law allows childhood sexual assault survivors to file until at least their 40th birthday or within several years of discovering that psychological injury was caused by the abuse, but additional revival and look‑back provisions may extend or modify these time limits, making early legal advice essential.
What should I do if I want to report sexual abuse but am unsure about filing a lawsuit?
You can contact us for a confidential consultation to discuss your options. We’ll explain your rights and the best steps forward.
How long does a sexual abuse lawsuit typically take to resolve?
Each case varies, but a sexual abuse lawsuit can take months to years. The timeline depends on complexity, discovery, and court schedules. However, our firm will keep you informed every step of the way so you know what to expect.
How does Dordick Law Corporation handle sensitive information in sexual abuse cases?
We prioritize confidentiality and respect your privacy. Our attorneys will gladly answer any questions you may have and explain your options throughout the legal process.
What if the abuser is part of a religious or educational institution?
Institutions can be held liable for abuse committed by their employees or agents if they knew or should have known and failed to act. We have extensive experience holding such organizations accountable.
Can I file a civil lawsuit even if no criminal charges were filed?
Yes. Civil cases focus on compensation for harm, and you can pursue a lawsuit regardless of whether a criminal case exists or results in conviction.
Discuss Your Case with an Experienced Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has suffered sexual abuse in Riverside, don’t wait to seek justice. Dordick Law Corporation is focused on holding perpetrators and negligent institutions accountable.
Contact Dordick Law Corporation today at (310) 551-0949 or complete our online form to schedule a confidential case review.
