Speaking up after childhood abuse takes strength, and you deserve support from someone who knows how to help. Your San Bernardino child sexual abuse attorney with The Senators Firm understands how hard it is to talk about what happened.
Our firm has helped survivors recover over $500 million, and we are here to listen, support, and guide you every step of the way. If you are ready to explore your legal options, we are just a phone call away.
Why Choose The Senators Firm for Legal Counsel?
We know how hard it is to trust someone with something this personal. At The Senators Firm, our team has helped survivors of child sexual abuse hold schools, churches, youth organizations, and other institutions accountable. We take a trauma-informed approach that centers your voice while protecting your privacy.
Our experience with high-profile and systemic abuse claims helps us anticipate defense tactics and keep the pressure where it belongs. You stay in control throughout the process, and we make sure you are never left in the dark.
What is Considered Child Sexual Abuse?
Abuse does not have to involve physical contact to be deeply damaging. Child sexual abuse can take many forms, including inappropriate touching, explicit messaging, grooming behaviors, and coercion through digital platforms.
Whether it happens at home, in youth organizations, or through sexual abuse in public schools, these acts are serious crimes. Cases involving child exploitation sexual abuse often include threats, manipulation, and efforts to isolate or shame the victim.
Legal Definitions Under California Penal Code § 288 and Related Statutes
The California Penal Code § 288 makes it a felony to commit lewd or lascivious acts on a child under 14. That includes touching for sexual purposes, even if the child is fully clothed.
Other statutes cover grooming, sending or soliciting explicit images, and using a computer to communicate with the intent to commit a sex act. These definitions give survivors and their families a legal path forward, even when the abuse was subtle, long-term, or non-violent.
Cases That Do Not Require Physical Contact
Many survivors are surprised to learn that sexual abuse charges can apply without physical touch. Possessing or sharing child sexual abuse material, exposing a child to graphic content, or pressuring a minor into sexualized online behavior are all prosecutable offenses.
Visual abuse and verbal threats are just as real and traumatic, and California law allows survivors to speak up, be heard, and hold the abuser accountable.
What are the Penalties for Child Abuse in California?
When someone is convicted of child sexual abuse in California, the penalties are harsh for a reason. The law is designed to reflect just how serious and lasting the harm can be. Sentencing often depends on the child’s age, how the abuse occurred, and whether the accused has a history of prior offenses. Here are a few consequences someone may face if convicted:
- Felony charges
- Lifetime sex offender registration
- Sentence enhancements for cases involving multiple victims
- Minimum sentencing required under Penal Code § 667.61
- Added prison time if the person held a position of trust, like a teacher or coach
- Extended statute of limitations for civil claims, giving survivors more time to take legal action
Call Our San Bernardino Child Sexual Abuse Attorneys Today
Taking that first step can feel like a lot, but we are here to make it easier. When you work with your child sexual abuse attorney in San Bernardino from The Senators Firm, you will be treated with care and respect every step of the way. When you feel ready to contact us to talk about what has happened, we will be prepared to help.