Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Statute of limitations for molestation?

14 years ago, when I was a 14 year old student, a male teacher initiated physical relations with me. Although we didn't have sexual intercourse, he kissed/touched me often, and had me touch him as well.

Due to the lapse of time, do I still have any legal rights? Is there a statute of limitations? Is this considered molestation? To deal with this, I've been in therapy for about 7 years, paid thousands of $$ out of my own pocket. Can this person be held financially responsible for some of these bills?

It's a very personal matter, you're respect for my privacy will be appreciated. And thank you for any information you can share with me on this.


Asked on 9/23/97, 2:49 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Jes Beard Jes Beard, Attorney at Law

Statute of limitations for molestation?

While you should check with an attorney licensed in your state, generally the statute of limitations for molestation is the same as the statute of limitations for any other personal injury. In Tennessee that is one year. In many states it is two. In some states I have heard of it being four.... but never have I heard of it being 14 years.Now, since this happened when you were 14, and were not yet old enought to file suit, the statute did not begin to run until you turned 18... but still was 10 years ago.What happened was terrible, but the statute of limitations is unforgiving and the extent of the injury does not extend it.

Read more
Answered on 9/23/97, 10:19 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Criminal Law questions and answers in California