How Can I Use California Assembly Bill 2777 in my Lawsuit?

You can use California Assembly Bill 2777 in your lawsuit if you filed a previous adult sexual abuse lawsuit that was barred because the statute of limitations expired. You could also use the new bill if your case involves a cover-up of sexual abuse. 

If you are looking to take action in your sexual abuse case, our firm can help you. A sexual abuse lawyer from our team can advocate for you as you pursue justice. We can also explain how you can use California Assembly Bill 2777 in your lawsuit and work with you to seek a fair settlement. 

What Is California Assembly Bill 2777?

California Assembly Bill 2777, also called the Sexual Abuse and Cover-Up Accountability Act, allows certain survivors of adult sexual abuse to file lawsuits if: 

• Their case was rejected because the statute of limitations expired or
• They were unable to file a claim due to a coverup

The new bill also establishes specific deadlines for taking civil action in cases of sexual abuse. It notes what cases these deadlines apply to and what older cases survivors can still bring forward. 

What Does It Mean To Take Civil Action in a Case of Sexual Abuse?

Civil action involves seeking compensation from those responsible for a case of sexual abuse. Compensation can help survivors of sexual abuse move forward and cover potential costs related to sexual abuse. For example, compensation can help cover the costs of medical care or income you lost if you needed to take time off work. 

How Long Do You Have To File a Lawsuit Under California Assembly Bill 2777?

How long you have to file a lawsuit depends on the circumstances of your case.

For example, if you suffered sexual abuse as an adult on or after January 1, 2009, you may have until December 31, 2026, to file your case. This provision has a few exceptions, but it reopens the possibility for compensation in cases that could not be addressed simply because the statute of limitations had expired. 

In addition, until December 31, 2023, people who suffered sexual abuse as an adult can bring forward cases of sexual abuse that occurred where there was an attempt to cover up the incident and where an entity (e.g., a school or church) is liable. 

As with other sections of the law, there are some exceptions to the cases that people can bring forward.  

Working With a Lawyer on a Case Where California Assembly Bill 2777 Applies

It is wise to consult with a lawyer with experience handling sexual abuse cases if you are interested in pursuing compensation from those responsible. A lawyer can advise you on how to take legal action and some of the likely outcomes in your case. 

In California, your lawyer can help ensure that you work within the deadlines of California Assembly Bill 2777. Some of the other tasks a lawyer will handle for you include: 

• Speaking to other parties involved in your case
• Filling out all paperwork for you 
• Advocating for you as you pursue fair compensation
• Explaining any other laws that apply to your case 
• Answering all your case-related questions

Your lawyer can review what happened in your case and determine how much compensation you can pursue based on your specific circumstances. They will present the evidence of the damages you suffered and represent you in court as needed. 

Get Started With Your Sexual Abuse Case Today With a Free Consultation

The legal team at Greenberg Gross is ready to represent you in your case. If California Assembly Bill 2777 applies to your case, we will help you work within the deadlines and guidelines laid out by this law. You can contact us today to receive a free initial consultation. We are ready to answer your questions and help you get started with your case.