Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

As a child, I was molested by my older cousin who is five years older than me. He was around 12 or 13 at the time. We are now adults. This happened around 10 years ago. If I choose to do so, Can I still press charges on him? Would it go to juvenile court?


Asked on 1/31/11, 5:06 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

You can try to file criminal charges with the police in that jurisdiction. It's up to them whether they do so, based upon Statute of Limitations, proof, etc.

Minors can bring sexual abuse civil lawsuits for up to 8 years after turning 18. If you are 26 or over, too late. But, if you determine that you have a case with MERIT [provable and a likelihood of winning], VALUE [substantial provable damages] and COLLECTABILITY [defendant with substantial assets], then you would have proper grounds to bring your legal claims in a lawsuit. If you can meet those requirements, feel free to contact me.

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Answered on 2/08/11, 3:28 pm


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