Pasadena Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Over 35 Years of Combined Experience Representing Clients

At McGee, Lerer & Associates, we prioritize the well-being of sexual abuse victims. We understand the toll this experience can take on individuals and their families, which is why we are committed to providing them with the support and representation they deserve.

Our team is deeply knowledgeable about the legal avenues available to victims, and we use our resources to pursue justice. Our persistent and compassionate approach to our work allows us to help our clients move forward with their lives with the closure they need.

If you or a love one has experienced sexual abuse, contact our Pasadena sexual abuse lawyers at (626) 642-9302.

What Is Sexual Abuse?

Sexual abuse is a form of assault where any undesired sexual contact occurs between people. It does not discriminate based on the relationship between individuals and can happen between intimate partners, colleagues, family members, and caregivers.

Examples of sexual abuse may include:

• Unwanted sexual contact
• Unwanted sexual requests
• Forced viewing of pornographic media
• Refusal to use condoms or restricting a person’s access to birth control
• Coercing a person into sexual activity

Sexual abuse can happen to anyone regardless of their gender or age. It's not limited to a certain group and can affect individuals from all walks of life. Our firm provides assistance in obtaining the compensation that victims are entitled to. We strive to help our clients in their healing process by holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.

What Are the Long-Term Psychological Effects of Sexual Abuse? 

The long-term psychological effects of sexual abuse can have a profound impact on survivors, influencing various aspects of their mental health and well-being. 

Here are some common long-term effects:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Many survivors of sexual abuse may develop PTSD, experiencing symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, and avoidance behaviors.
• Anxiety Disorders: Survivors may struggle with generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic attacks, or specific phobias related to their traumatic experiences.
• Depression: Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, guilt, and worthlessness are common among survivors of sexual abuse, potentially leading to clinical depression.
• Dissociation: Survivors may experience dissociative symptoms, feeling disconnected from their thoughts, feelings, memories, or sense of identity as a coping mechanism.
• Low Self-Esteem and Self-Blame: Many survivors grapple with feelings of shame, self-blame, and low self-worth as a result of the abuse they endured.
• Trust Issues: Difficulty trusting others, forming healthy relationships, or feeling safe in intimate situations can be significant challenges for survivors of sexual abuse.
• Substance Abuse: Some survivors may turn to alcohol, drugs, or other substances as a means of coping with the emotional pain and trauma associated with the abuse.
• Eating Disorders: Disorders like anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating may develop in response to the psychological distress caused by past sexual abuse.
• Sexual Dysfunction: Survivors may experience difficulties with intimacy, sexual relationships, or engaging in healthy sexual behaviors due to the trauma they endured.
• Self-Harm and Suicidal Behavior: The long-term effects of sexual abuse can increase the risk of self-harming behaviors, suicidal ideation, or suicide attempts among survivors.

It's essential for survivors of sexual abuse to seek professional help and support to address these long-term psychological effects. Therapy, counseling, support groups, and other therapeutic interventions can assist survivors in processing trauma, developing coping strategies, and promoting healing and recovery.

How Can Our Pasadena Sexual Abuse Lawyers Help?

Our team is well-equipped to support victims and navigate the complexities of the legal system on their behalf. 

Our attorneys can do following:

• Explain the laws and legal options to our clients
• Determine if other individuals and/or entities are responsible such as: churches, schools, employers, etc.
• Collect, research, and organize evidence to build our client’s case

If you are a victim of sexual abuse, it is important to know that you may be entitled to compensation for various damages. These damages could include medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages due to time off, and much more. Our attorneys at McGee, Lerer & Associates can help you pursue the compensation you rightfully deserve. Don't hesitate to seek help. You are not alone in this difficult situation.

Why Clients Choose Us

Our team at McGee, Lerer & Associates has built a reputation on providing exceptional service and legal counsel to our clients. We understand that navigating legal issues can be daunting and stressful, which is why we strive to make the experience as smooth as possible. 

A few reasons clients have chosen us include:

• Personalized attention: we care deeply for our clients and are dedicated to being by their side every step of the way.
• No upfront costs: we provide free consultations and only collect a fee if we win. If nothing is recovered, you pay us nothing.
• 24/7 availability: our office offers appointments on weekends as well as in hospitals or in your home. Our team is here for you.
• Spanish services: We’re devoted to serving our community as best as we can. That’s why we provide legal services in English and Spanish.

Local Support and Resources for Sexual Abuse Victims in Pasadena

Living in Pasadena, we understand the unique challenges our community faces when dealing with the aftermath of sexual abuse. The City of Pasadena offers various resources to support victims, including the Pasadena Police Department and the Pasadena Public Health Department, which provide essential services and information for those in need. Additionally, local organizations such as Peace Over Violence and the YWCA Glendale and Pasadena offer counseling and advocacy services to help victims navigate their recovery journey.

One of the significant pain points for sexual abuse victims in Pasadena is the feeling of isolation and the fear of not being believed. Our McGee, Lerer & Associates team is dedicated to addressing these concerns by offering a compassionate and supportive environment. We are familiar with the local legal landscape and work diligently to ensure our clients receive the justice they deserve.

We also recognize the importance of community support in the healing process. By connecting our clients with local resources and support groups, we help them build a network of care that extends beyond legal representation. Whether you seek medical assistance, counseling, or legal advice, our team is here to guide you every step.

At McGee, Lerer & Associates, we are committed to making a difference in the lives of sexual abuse victims in Pasadena. Our deep understanding of the local community and its resources allows us to provide tailored support that meets the unique needs of our clients. If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to help you find the strength and support you need to move forward.

Contact the Pasadena Sexual Abuse Lawyers at McGee, Lerer & Associates

For many years, our team has been passionately committed to providing personalized and reliable legal services to our clients. We have a wealth of experience and a reputation for success. Our firm represented 14 of 124 victims who obtained a childhood sexual abuse settlement of $122.5 million from the City of Santa Monica and the Police Activities League, an afterschool program.

No matter how complex the case, we are here to listen, guide, and fight for your rights. Don't hesitate to reach out to us, and let's get started on your case.

Call today at (626) 642-9302 or contact us online.