California Institutional Sexual Abuse Attorneys

Legal Advocates for Survivors of Institutional Abuse in Youth Facilities, Schools, Religious Institutions, Detention Centers & More

Exposing Abuse. Demanding Justice. Supporting Survivors.

Free, Confidential Consultations for Survivors of Institutional Sexual Abuse

At Potter Handy LLP, we stand with survivors of institutional sexual abuse across California. Whether the abuse occurred in a juvenile detention center, religious institution, school, or youth program, our mission is to hold institutions accountable and fight for the justice survivors deserve.

We are currently investigating multiple claims related to abuse in youth detention facilities in San Diego and San Bernardino Counties, but our work spans all types of institutional settings throughout the state.

Call us today at (415) 534-1911 or fill out our confidential online form to schedule a free, confidential consultation.

🛡️ What Is Institutional Sexual Abuse?

Institutional abuse occurs when a person in power — such as a guard, teacher, coach, religious leader, or staff member — sexually abuses someone under their care within an organization or system, and the institution fails to prevent or stop the abuse.

Institutions may be:

  • Public or private
  • Nonprofit or corporate
  • Religious, educational, governmental, or healthcare-related

If an organization knew or should have known about abuse and did nothing — or actively covered it up — it may be legally responsible.

⚖️ Your Rights Under California Law

Thanks to laws like AB 218 and recent legal reforms, survivors of childhood sexual abuse in California have expanded rights to seek justice:

  • You can file a civil lawsuit until age 40, or within 5 years of discovering the abuse’s impact.
  • A special “look-back window” (through Dec. 31, 2025) allows survivors to file lawsuits even if their case would normally be time-barred.
  • Institutions and individual perpetrators can be sued for damages, including pain and suffering, medical treatment, therapy costs, and punitive damages.
  • In some cases, claims can be filed anonymously to protect your identity.

💼 Why Choose Potter Handy LLP?

✅ Deep Experience in Institutional and Civil Rights Law
We’ve spent over two decades taking on powerful institutions — including government entities, religious organizations, and private corporations.

✅ California-Based and California-Focused
We know California’s legal system, and we understand the unique trauma experienced by survivors in local detention centers, schools, and religious settings.

✅ Trauma-Informed Representation
We offer confidential, respectful, and compassionate legal service to every client. We believe survivors — and we fight for them.

✅ Results That Matter
We have recovered millions in settlements and verdicts for those harmed by abuse, discrimination, and civil rights violations.

✅ No Fee Unless We Win Your Case – We Work on a Contingency Basis
As experienced institutional sexual abuse attorneys in California, we are committed to providing our clients with the personalized attention they deserve while fighting for justice on their behalf. We understand the emotional and financial toll this type of abuse can take on an individual, and we are dedicated to helping you secure the compensation and accountability your case deserves. With decades of experience and deep knowledge in this field, you can trust Potter Handy to handle your case with the utmost care and discretion.

🧠 Examples of Institutional Settings Where Abuse Can Occur

  • Juvenile halls and youth detention facilities
  • Foster care and group homes
  • Public and private schools
  • Religious organizations (churches, synagogues, mosques, etc.)
  • Youth sports and extracurricular programs
  • Residential treatment centers and behavioral health facilities
  • Summer camps and boarding schools
  • Medical facilities, hospitals, and psychiatric institutions

San Diego and San Bernardino Youth Detention Facilities

Recent reports and survivor accounts have raised serious concerns about sexual abuse, misconduct, and negligence within juvenile halls and youth detention centers in San Diego and San Bernardino Counties.

These facilities are operated by government agencies that have a legal duty to protect minors in custody. We are actively investigating claims involving:

  • Abuse by correctional officers or staff
  • Failure to report or intervene
  • Retaliation against youth who speak out
  • Civil rights violations under California and federal law

If you or someone you love was abused while detained in a California youth facility, you may have a valid legal claim, even if the abuse occurred years ago.

🕒 Time Matters — Don’t Wait to Speak Out

Legal deadlines for filing a claim — even under expanded laws — can still expire. If you’re considering coming forward, we encourage you to contact our legal team as soon as possible for a free, private consultation.

We can help you understand:

  • Whether you have a case
  • Who can be held legally responsible
  • What compensation you may be entitled to
  • Whether you can proceed anonymously

About Potter Handy LLP

Potter Handy LLP is a California civil rights and personal injury law firm dedicated to justice for those harmed by abuse, negligence, and discrimination. With a reputation for fearless litigation and compassionate representation, we are proud to serve survivors of institutional sexual abuse statewide.

📞 Call us today at (415) 534-1911 or fill out our confidential online form to schedule a free, confidential consultation.