San Francisco, CA Molestation Lawyer

Compassionate Legal Representation for Survivors of Child Molestation

At Kellogg & Van Aken LLP, our San Francisco, CA molestation lawyer is experienced in representing survivors of child sexual abuse – also called child molestation – and holding the people and institutions who enable the abuse accountable. We understand the complex and sensitive nature of these cases and provide comprehensive legal guidance alongside compassionate support to help victims and their families navigate the path to healing and justice. 

What is Child Molestation?

Child molestation is an unfathomable crime that has everlasting effects on victims, their families, and their communities. Child molestation is a form of child sexual abuse in which an adult or older adolescent uses a child for sexual stimulation. Sexual violence violates a child’s sense of privacy, safety, and well-being. Perpetrators often use their position of trust and authority to groom and prey on victims, and misconduct can range from inappropriate touching to more severe forms of sexual misconduct or harassment. 

Parents and family members often experience guilt for missing warning signs in their child that molestation may have been occurring. But the reality is predators often make a significant effort to gain the trust of parents and trusted family members in order to gain access and groom their victims. 

Certain individuals are mandated reporters, meaning they are required by law to report any instances of child abuse or neglect that they know, or reasonably suspect, to law enforcement. Failure to do so can lead to imprisonment and fines. 

What are the Signs of Molestation in Children?

Identifying child molestation can be difficult. There may be physical signs of abuse such as bruising or cuts around the genitals or anus or 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 on Survivors of Molestation

Survivors of child molestation often face long-lasting effects, including:

• Emotional Trauma: Child molestation can cause children to have feelings of shame, guilt, fear, humiliation, self-blame and distrust. These symptoms can persist long after the incident occurs. 
• Psychological Distress: Children who have been molested often experience anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They may experience intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, and nightmares.
• Educational Impact: Victims of child molestation may struggle with academic performance and school attendance due to the trauma they have experienced. 
• Interpersonal Challenges: A survivors’ relationships with family members, peers, and authority figures can be adversely affected after instances of molestation. 

What Can I Do If I Suspect a My Child is a Survivor of Molestation?

If you believe your child is a survivor of sexual abuse or molestation:

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 or police department 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 molestation 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 you or your child’s legal rights, reach out to an experienced child molestation lawyer to learn more about your legal recourse. 

Why Choose Kellogg & Van Aken LLP?

• Experience in Child Molestation Cases: Our attorneys have the knowledge and experience in handling child molestation cases and approach each interaction with a trauma-informed lens. We are fierce advocates in the courtroom but compassionate legal advisors to our clients. 
• Client-Centered Approach: We provide a confidential and safe environment for you to learn about your legal rights and options in holding the perpetrator and the institution that protected them accountable for the harm that you endured. We take the time to explain all of your options and partner with you in your journey toward healing and closure. 
• Contingency Legal Fee Model: We understand that high hourly legal fees can be a barrier for survivors of child molestation to come forward and pursue justice. We offer our legal services on a contingency fee basis to ensure that any person, regardless of their economic status, can seek accountability from their abusers. 

What Services Does a San Francisco, CA Molestation Lawyer Provide?

• No-Cost Confidential Consultation: We provide potential clients with a free, confidential, and trauma-informed consultation where we talk to you about your legal options and recourse. Our goal is to ensure that molestation survivors feel comfortable and safe in sharing their stories with us from the very beginning. 
• Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Our attorneys at Kellogg & Van Aken LLP conduct comprehensive investigations in order to gather evidence which may support your case and help determine your best legal options in pursuing justice. 
• Compassionate and Aggressive Legal Representation: We provide our client with compassionate legal support while aggressively pursuing their case from discovery to negotiations to trial.

Understanding Your Rights as a Survivor of Child Molestation

Survivors have the right to hold perpetrators and negligent institutions accountable. We guide you through the legal pathways available to seek justice and compensation for your suffering.

San Francisco Molestation Infographic

San Fransisco Molestation Statistics

According to RAINN, 34 percent of all child molestation victims are under the age of 12. One in 9 girls and 1 in 20 boys under the age of 18 experience sexual abuse or assault.

The impact of child molestation and sexual abuse can have life-long ramifications. Survivors are more likely to experience the following than those who have not been abused:

• Four times more likely to develop symptoms of drug abuse
• Four times more likely to experience PTSD as adults
• Three times more likely to experience a major depressive episode as adults

If you have been molested, contact our office to meet with a San Fransisco molestation lawyer and learn your legal options.

San Francisco Molestation Lawyer

If you have been molested, you may want to consult a San Francisco, CA molestation lawyer. You deserve justice. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about these lawyers.

1. What is a molestation lawyer?

A molestation lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in handling cases related to sexual assault. These attorneys possess expertise in the legal intricacies surrounding sexual offenses, providing legal representation and guidance to individuals involved in such cases.

2. What does a molestation lawyer do?

Molestation lawyers play a crucial role in the legal process by offering assistance to victims of sexual assault. They provide legal advice, conduct investigations, build a defense strategy, and represent their clients in court.

3. How can a molestation lawyer help survivors?

For survivors of molestation, a molestation lawyer can guide them through the legal process, help file a complaint, and advocate for their rights. These attorneys work to ensure that victims receive the support and justice they deserve, representing them during legal proceedings.

4. How do I choose the right molestation lawyer?

Selecting the right lawyer is essential. Look for an attorney with experience in handling molestation cases, a good track record, and effective communication skills. Consider consulting with potential lawyers to ensure they understand your situation and can provide the support you need.

5. What legal options exist for molestation survivors?

Molestation victims have various legal options, including filing a criminal complaint, pursuing a civil lawsuit, or seeking a protective order. A molestation lawyer can explain these options, guide victims through the process, and help them make informed decisions based on their unique circumstances.

6. Can I sue my assailant in a civil court?

Yes, survivors of molestation can pursue a civil lawsuit against their assailant. A molestation lawyer can help victims understand the legal grounds for such a lawsuit, gather evidence, and seek compensation for damages, including medical expenses, therapy costs, and emotional distress.

7. How long does it take to resolve a molestation case?

The duration of a sexual assault case varies depending on factors such as the legal processes involved, the complexity of the case, and court schedules. A molestation lawyer can provide a realistic timeline based on the specifics of your situation.

8. What rights do molestation survivors have?

Molestation victims have rights, including the right to privacy, the right to be treated with dignity and respect, and the right to seek justice. A molestation lawyer can advocate for these rights, ensuring that victims are treated fairly throughout the legal process.

A San Francisco molestation lawyer is a crucial ally for survivors of molestation, providing legal guidance, representation, and support throughout the legal process. At Kellogg & Van Aken LLP, we can help.

Contact a San Francisco, CA Molestation Lawyer at Kellogg & Van Aken LLP

For a safe and confidential consultation, please contact Kellogg & Van Aken LLP. Our molestation attorneys are ready to listen and help.