San Marcos

Sexual assault can affect people in many different ways, and the signs are not always obvious. If you're a parent or guardian and notice your child or teen acting differently, like becoming withdrawn, anxious, suddenly aggressive, or fearful of certain people or places, it could be a sign that something is wrong. Other indicators may include physical injuries, trouble sleeping, unexplained health issues, or a drop in school performance. Trust your instincts and take any changes seriously.

The length of a sexual assault case can vary widely depending on the details. Some cases may settle in several months, while others, especially those involving large institutions or multiple defendants, can take years. These cases often require thorough investigation, evidence collection, negotiation attempts between both parties, and expert and witness testimony. While the process may take time, a careful and well-prepared case often leads to a stronger outcome.

You don’t have to worry about paying anything upfront. Jessica Pride and her team work on a contingency basis, which means you only pay if your case is successful. The legal fees come from a percentage of the settlement or verdict, and the firm covers all initial costs to file your lawsuit.

It's best to contact a sexual assault law firm as soon as you feel ready, even if you're unsure about taking legal action. California law gives adult survivors up to 10 years to file a claim, or 3 years from when they discover emotional or psychological injuries related to the assault. For those who experienced childhood sexual abuse, the deadline is age 40 or within 5 years of discovering the abuse.