San Francisco, CA Teacher Sexual Assault Lawyer

Compassionate Legal Representation for Victims of Teacher Sexual Assault

Teachers are some of the most beloved and trusted members of our community. Parents send their children to school each day trusting that their teachers will care for them and keep them safe. Unfortunately, sexual abuse by teachers and educators happens all too often. At Kellogg & Van Aken LLP, our San Francisco, CA, teacher sexual assault lawyer understands the complex and sensitive nature of cases involving teacher sexual assault. We prioritize providing experienced legal guidance alongside compassionate support to help children and student survivors navigate the path toward justice and healing. 

What Is Sexual Assault by A Teacher?

Teachers, educators, or other school staff members often use their positions of trust and authority to groom and prey on vulnerable students. Sexual assault by a teacher can involve any unwanted sexual activity or conduct perpetrated by an educator against a student. This can range from inappropriate touching to more severe forms of sexual harassment or misconduct. Such actions have deep and lasting impacts on the victim's emotional and psychological well-being.

School officials are mandated reporters under California law. This means that if they know or suspect that a teacher is sexually abusing a student, they are required to report it to law enforcement or a child welfare agency. 

What Are the Signs of Teacher Sexual Abuse in Students?

Identifying child sexual abuse can be difficult. There may be physical signs of abuse such as bruising or cuts around the genitals or anus, discomfort while sitting, walking, or using the toilet. There may also be behavioral signs, including regression to younger behaviors; bed-wetting; nightmares; sexually aggressive play, writing, or art; discomfort with getting dressed or undressed; or sudden changes in eating habits. In older children, behavioral signs may include signs of anxiety or depression, self-harm, self-destructive behavior, changes in how they dress (covering up or dressing more revealing), sudden changes in eating habits, and changes in sexual expression.

The Impact of Teacher Sexual Assault on Victims

Victims of teacher sexual assault often face long-lasting effects, including:

• Emotional Trauma: Feelings of fear, shame, guilt, and mistrust can persist long after the incident.
• Psychological Distress: Anxiety, depression, and PTSD are common among survivors.
• Impact on Education: Victims may struggle with academic performance and attendance due to the trauma.
• Interpersonal Challenges: Relationships with peers, family, and future authority figures can be adversely affected.

What Can I Do If I Suspect a Teacher is Sexually Abusing My Child?

If you believe your child is a victim of teacher sexual abuse:

1. Listen to your child. If your child tells you that they have been abused, listen to them. It takes tremendous courage for a child to admit that something like this has happened to them. 
2. Call law enforcement. Call your local law enforcement agency and file a report.
3. Go to the hospital. If possible, go to your local hospital and request a rape kit as soon as possible.
4. Document any injuries. Do your best to document what happened and, if possible, take photos of any injuries your child may have sustained.
5. Support your child. Coming forward to report abuse can be overwhelming and scary for a child. This may be their first experience interacting with law enforcement and they may be nervous to describe what happened to them. Listen to what your child may need to feel supported and comfortable sharing their experience.
6. Contact a lawyer. If you are interested in learning more about your legal rights, reach out to an experienced teacher sexual assault lawyer to get more information on your legal recourse. 

Why Choose Kellogg & Van Aken LLP in a Teacher Sexual Assault Case?

• Experience in Sexual Assault Cases: Our attorneys at Kellogg & Van Aken LLP have deep knowledge and experience in handling these delicate cases with the utmost care and professionalism.
• Client-Centered Approach: We provide a safe and confidential environment for you to pursue your legal claims and hold the teacher and school district accountable for your harm. 
• Financial Accessibility: We understand that high legal fees can be a barrier for survivors to come forward. We offer legal services on a contingency fee basis to ensure that justice is accessible to everyone. 

What services does a San Francisco, CA teacher sexual assault lawyer provide? 

• Free Confidential Consultation: We begin with a no-cost, confidential and sensitive discussion about your case and legal options. We use a trauma-informed approach during all of our consultations with survivors of teacher sexual assault to make the survivor and their family feel as comfortable as possible. 
• Investigation and Evidence Gathering: After our confidential consultation, our attorneys conduct a comprehensive investigation and begin collecting evidence in order to build a strong case or determine whether it makes sense to pursue legal action.
• Legal Representation: We are passionate and fierce advocates who pursue a civil lawsuit on your behalf and provide unwavering support from investigation to negotiations to trial. 

Understanding Your Rights

Survivors of teacher sexual assault have the right to hold perpetrators and negligent school districts accountable. We guide you through the legal pathways available to seek justice and compensation for your suffering. 

Contact a San Francisco, CA Teacher Sexual Assault Lawyer at Kellogg & Van Aken LLP

For a confidential consultation, please contact one of our San Francisco, CA teacher sexual assault lawyers at Kellogg & Van Aken LLP. Our team is ready to listen and help.