Beverly Hills Sexual Assault Attorney
Pursuing Justice and Empowering Survivors in Beverly Hills
Sexual assault is a devastating and deeply personal violation that can leave lasting scars, both physical and emotional. If you or a loved one has experienced sexual violence, it’s important to know that you are not alone. At Carpenter & Zuckerman, we are dedicated to helping survivors of sexual assault seek justice, hold perpetrators accountable, and reclaim their lives.
While nothing can erase the pain and trauma of such an experience, taking legal action can provide a sense of closure and the compensation needed to rebuild. Our Beverly Hills sexual assault attorneys bring nearly three decades of experience to every case, empowering survivors through compassionate advocacy and relentless pursuit of justice.
If you’ve been sexually assaulted, call Carpenter & Zuckerman today at (310) 273-1230 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
What Constitutes Sexual Assault in California?
Sexual assault encompasses a wide range of non-consensual acts, including any unwanted touching of intimate areas for sexual satisfaction or arousal (California Penal Code §243.4). When non-consensual sexual intercourse occurs, it is considered rape.
Key Elements of Sexual Assault:
- Intent: The defendant must have acted with the intent to commit the act.
- Lack of Consent: The survivor must not have agreed to the contact. Under California law, minors under 18 are legally incapable of consenting to sexual acts.
At Carpenter & Zuckerman, we have in-depth knowledge of California’s sexual assault laws. Our attorneys work tirelessly to strengthen your case by gathering compelling evidence, arranging expert testimonies, and preparing effectively for trial.
Civil vs. Criminal Sexual Assault Lawsuits in California
It’s important to understand the distinction between civil and criminal sexual assault cases.
- Criminal Cases: These are pursued by the state with the goal of punishing the perpetrator, potentially through imprisonment, fines, or other penalties.
- Civil Cases: These are filed by survivors to seek financial compensation for the harm they’ve endured, including medical expenses, emotional distress, and lost wages.
Both types of lawsuits can be pursued simultaneously. A civil lawsuit provides survivors an opportunity to hold perpetrators accountable in a manner that is survivor-focused, offering an avenue for financial relief and empowerment.
The Statute of Limitations for Sexual Assault Cases
Understanding the timeline for filing a sexual assault claim is crucial. California recently extended the statute of limitations for sexual assault cases to provide survivors with more time to come forward.
Filing Deadlines:
- Adult Survivors: Claims can be filed within 10 years of the incident or three years from the discovery of a related injury or illness (California Code of Civil Procedure §340.16).
- Childhood Survivors: Survivors of childhood sexual assault can file claims any time before their 40th birthday (California Code of Civil Procedure §340.1).
Navigating these deadlines can be complex. Our attorneys will ensure that your claim is filed accurately and on time, preserving your right to seek justice and compensation.
Recoverable Damages in Sexual Assault Civil Cases
Victims of sexual assault can pursue a range of damages to address the physical, emotional, and financial consequences of the assault.
Types of Compensation:
- Economic Damages: These include medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, and loss of earning capacity.
- Non-Economic Damages: Compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and the loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive Damages: Awarded in cases involving particularly egregious acts to penalize the perpetrator and deter similar behavior in the future.
At Carpenter & Zuckerman, we meticulously assess your case to ensure all potential damages are pursued, maximizing the financial relief you deserve.
Proving Sexual Assault in a Civil Case
The burden of proof in civil sexual assault cases is lower than in criminal cases but still requires a strong presentation of evidence. Our attorneys build compelling cases using evidence such as:
- Police and medical reports.
- Forensic evidence, including DNA results.
- Witness and character testimonies.
- Communication records, such as texts, emails, or call logs.
- Expert input from psychologists or other professionals.
By developing a comprehensive strategy and presenting clear, persuasive evidence, we increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
Dedicated Advocates, Always in your Corner A Team You Can Trust
Carpenter & Zuckerman is a leading personal injury law firm founded on the principle that justice for injured people takes precedence over corporate profits. CZ Law has the resources and legal expertise to fight powerful insurance carriers and corporations that do everything they can to limit their liability.
Why Choose Carpenter & Zuckerman?
At Carpenter & Zuckerman, we don’t just fight for justice—we provide survivors with the support and resources needed to move forward. Here’s why Beverly Hills residents trust us with their sexual assault cases:
What Sets Us Apart:
- Proven Track Record: Over $2 billion recovered for personal injury clients across California.
- Compassionate Representation: We handle each case with sensitivity and respect, providing a safe space for survivors.
- Trial-Ready Attorneys: We prepare every case for trial, ensuring aggressive advocacy when it matters most.
- No Fees Unless We Win: Our contingency fee structure guarantees zero financial risk for our clients.
- Comprehensive Client Care: Beyond legal representation, we connect survivors with counseling and support networks to aid in the healing process.
Our team is deeply committed to empowering survivors and helping them rebuild their lives after unimaginable hardship.
OUR PRACTICE AREAS How We Can Help
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Vehicle Accidents
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Catastrophic Injury
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Premises Liability
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Civil Rights
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Assault
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Product Liability
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Medical Malpractice
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Catastrophic Injury
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Civil Rights
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Product Liability
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Medical Malpractice
beverly hills Practice Areas
A Few Of Our Big Wins
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$131M Car Accident
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$74.53M Birth Injury
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$45M Drunk Driver
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$31.7M Brain Injury
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$29.25M Brain Injury
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$21.65M Motorcycle Accident
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$17M Brain Injury
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$16.4M Medical Malpractice
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$14.6M Commercial Vehicle
Contact Our Beverly Hills Sexual Assault Attorneys
Your journey towards justice and healing begins with understanding your rights and options. We are here to provide an unwavering dedication to your case and ensure that your voice is heard. By choosing Carpenter & Zuckerman, you're taking a powerful step toward holding perpetrators accountable and fostering a safer, more responsive community. Reach out to us to learn more about how we can assist you in finding the resolution you need and deserve.
Call us at (310) 273-1230 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today.
At Carpenter & Zuckerman, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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My car was rear ended, aggravating a bulging disc. Carpenter & Zuckerman set up all my doctor appointments and paid for everything up front. They were able to get me a settlement for both my injury case and property damage case. I am very happy with the way they handled my case.- Ben A.
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- Larry T.
Carpenter & Zuckerman team was very helpful and informative. Especially Edward Cherkezian and Disha Bhagwat. This was my first time doing any of this and they helped me through step by step. Would recommend!
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My attorneys Pej and Mario were absolutely amazing. They made everything easy for me handling everything very well. They set me up perfectly to help get me the best results I could ask for. Truly appreciate all their hard work!!- Neena Z.
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- Jon C.
It was a pleasure working with C&Z. Edward was extremely helpful in making me feel confident in their ability. Would highly recommend.
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Vlad had my case that was going on for 2 years, resolved in less that 2 months! They are always on top & update you every step of the way- Luna U.
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- C.H.
Very professional. Had an amazing experience after our vehicle accident. Referral so many people because of the good experience. You're in good hands! I wouldn't go anywhere else.