Bakersfield Teen Dating Sexual Abuse Lawyer
Teen dating sexual abuse is a growing concern throughout California, including right here in Bakersfield. These cases are often overlooked, misunderstood, or downplayed because the abuse occurs within the context of what appears to be a consensual relationship. But when one teen—or an adult—uses coercion, pressure, or force to obtain sexual gratification, it becomes a serious legal matter. These situations leave deep emotional wounds and lasting trauma that can follow a survivor throughout life.
At Greenberg Gross LLP, we stand with survivors. Our Bakersfield teen dating sexual abuse lawyers help those who have suffered sexual abuse in dating relationships pursue justice through California’s civil legal system. Whether the abuse occurred in school, through youth groups like the Boy Scouts, or even in religious organizations, our law firm offers confidential consultation and experienced legal representation. We are here to guide survivors through civil lawsuits, help them gather evidence, and ensure they receive the financial compensation and emotional support they need to heal.
What Is Teen Dating Sexual Abuse?
Teen dating sexual abuse involves any form of sexual assault, sexual battery, or coercive sexual activity within a romantic or dating relationship involving minors. Many cases involve a teen being sexually abused by someone they trust—often a peer, sometimes an older adult. In some instances, the abuse is part of a broader pattern of child sexual abuse, and in others, it is a single but traumatic incident that qualifies under California law as a sexual abuse case.
Examples include:
- Unwanted sexual activity under pressure or threat
- Physical assault or forced sexual activity
- Digital coercion (e.g., threats over shared photos)
- Repeated harassment or grooming by older individuals
- Childhood sexual assault disguised as a relationship
- Abuse committed by clergy members, coaches, or healthcare workers
Survivors of sexual abuse in dating relationships may experience deep psychological trauma, emotional distress, and physical pain. Many do not disclose the abuse until years later.
Understanding the Law in California
California law protects minors from sexual abuse and offers civil and criminal remedies for survivors. Statutory rape, sexual assault, and other sexual misconduct involving teens may be criminally prosecuted, but survivors can also file civil lawsuits against the perpetrator and any liable third party.
Key legal protections include:
- Statutory rape and child molestation laws: In cases involving significant age differences or lack of consent, perpetrators may face felony charges and severe penalties.
- Civil lawsuits: Survivors of childhood sexual abuse can file claims for damages such as medical bills, lost wages, psychological injury, and more.
- Negligent hiring or supervision: Institutions such as churches or summer camps may be held liable for failing to prevent abuse.
- Recent updates to California law: New law provisions have extended the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse civil cases, allowing adult survivors more time to come forward
Filing a Civil Lawsuit in Bakersfield
A civil lawsuit allows sexual abuse survivors to seek financial compensation and hold perpetrators accountable, even if no criminal case is filed or the perpetrator is never found guilty. Civil cases can be filed against both the abuser and any third party whose negligence contributed to the abuse.
Our law firm helps clients:
- File lawsuits for past or recent sexual abuse
- Pursue compensation for emotional distress and medical expenses
- Recover lost wages or future earning potential
- Secure compensation for therapy and long-term care
- File claims against institutions such as the Boy Scouts, churches, or schools
- Demand punitive damages where the abuse was egregious or repeated
We offer legal options on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients do not pay unless we win financial compensation.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
While individual abusers are usually the focus of legal action, many cases also involve third parties who failed to protect the survivor. These can include religious organizations, youth camps, or law offices that ignored complaints or enabled abuse through negligent hiring or supervision.
In Bakersfield, we pursue civil lawsuits against:
- Clergy members and churches involved in sexual abuse
- Youth organizations that failed to screen adult supervisors
- Employers or institutions that permitted access to minors
- Medical providers or counselors who crossed ethical boundaries
- Anyone found legally responsible for allowing the abuse to occur
Liability can include both financial and legal consequences. Holding all parties accountable is critical for achieving justice and preventing future abuse.
Damages Available in Sexual Abuse Claims
Survivors who file civil lawsuits may recover significant financial compensation, including:
- Costs for counseling and psychological treatment
- Hospital and medical bills
- Pain and suffering damages
- Lost income or loss of future income
- Punitive damages in cases of extreme misconduct
- Legal expenses under a contingency fee basis
We help survivors document their psychological injury, demonstrate the impact of the abuse, and secure compensation that reflects the true cost of the trauma endured.
Our Law Firm’s Approach
Greenberg Gross LLP is a California law firm dedicated to helping sexual abuse survivors secure justice. Our team includes experienced sexual abuse attorneys who handle complex cases involving clergy sexual abuse, childhood sexual assault, institutional liability, and more.
We understand how difficult it is to talk about these experiences. That’s why we offer:
- Confidential consultation with trauma-informed professionals
- Compassionate yet aggressive legal representation
- Detailed case preparation, including help to gather evidence
- Legal expertise in child sexual abuse and civil litigation
- Support for survivors of sexual abuse in Bakersfield and across California
You deserve legal representation that prioritizes your safety, your healing, and your future.
Contact a Bakersfield Teen Dating Sexual Abuse Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been sexually abused in a teen dating relationship, you have the right to pursue legal action. Our Bakersfield legal team offers confidential support, legal options, and dedicated representation to help you secure compensation and peace of mind.
We’re committed to holding every responsible party accountable. Let us help you pursue justice and move forward with strength and clarity. Contact Greenberg Gross LLP today for a confidential consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I file a civil lawsuit if I was abused years ago?
Yes. California has extended the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse. Adult survivors now have more time to file lawsuits.
Who can be sued in a teen dating sexual abuse case?
Both the individual abuser and any institutions that enabled the abuse may be held liable. This includes youth groups, religious organizations, and employers.
How do I prove that sexual abuse occurred?
You do not need physical evidence. Witness testimony, text messages, medical records, and therapy notes can support your case.
What if I was sexually abused but never reported it?
You can still file a civil lawsuit. Civil cases have a lower burden of proof than criminal trials and don’t require a previous police report or criminal case.
How much compensation can I receive?
Each case is different. Survivors may receive financial compensation for emotional trauma, medical bills, lost income, and more.
Do you handle cases against religious organizations?
Yes. We handle clergy sexual abuse cases and lawsuits against churches and institutions such as the Catholic Church.
How is a civil lawsuit different from a criminal case?
A civil case is filed by the survivor seeking compensation. A criminal case is filed by the state to punish the perpetrator. You can pursue both.
Will my name be public if I file a lawsuit?
Not necessarily. In many child sexual abuse cases, survivors can file anonymously or with protective measures in place.
Do I need to pay upfront to hire your law firm?
No. We work on a contingency fee basis. You only pay if we win your case.
How do I get started?
Contact our Bakersfield office today. Our team will listen, answer your questions, and guide you through your next steps with care and professionalism.