Jiu jitsu is a system of martial arts that can be used for defensive or offensive purposes. In America, many students gravitate toward Brazilian jiu jitsu, commonly referred to as BJJ. However, this is just one of many martial arts styles that developed from the original system of jiu jitsu.
Whether you choose to take classes in BJJ, aikido, judo, or another sport that originated from jiu jitsu, finding the right instructor is critical to your success. Thankfully, many martial arts students find caring and skilled instructors who teach them many valuable lessons that can be applied on and off the mat. Others, unfortunately, are physically, emotionally, or sexually abused by a predatory instructor.
If you or your child was victimized in a sexual manner by a jiu jitsu instructor, our law firm is here to guide you through the available legal options. Our child sexual assault lawyers have decades of experience with lawsuits against schools, learning centers, sports academies, and other institutions that work with children. We are more than ready for the challenge of fighting for you and the compensation you deserve. Contact Normandie Law Firm and talk to a sexual abuse lawyer during a free, private consultation.
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California’s Definition of Child Sexual Assault
Each state has its own definition of what it means to commit sexual assault or abuse against a minor. In California, any form of sexual contact between adults and individuals younger than 18 is defined as child sexual assault. This is based on the fact that the legal age of consent in California is 18. So, if you are under this age, the law recognizes that you do not have the intellectual and emotional capabilities to make informed choices about sex.
This is why an adult cannot defend themselves by saying that the child agreed to engage in intercourse, oral sex, or any other activity of a sexual nature. They also cannot argue that the child was not a virgin and knew about the activity they were engaging in. Essentially, any sexual relationship for any duration of time between a minor and someone of adult age is blamed on the adult, and the consequences can range from criminal prosecution to a lawsuit filed by the victim or their family members.
There is much more to know about child sexual abuse and your rights as someone who was subjected to sexual exploitation and assault by a jiu jitsu instructor. We are here to answer your questions and provide you with advice, so don’t hesitate to contact us if you are a victim of sexual abuse by a martial arts instructor.
Who can I Sue if for Sexual Assault by a Jiu Jitsu Instructor?
Aside from the teacher that took advantage of you, the martial arts school or academy may be responsible if they were negligent in their duty to protect you from a predatory employee. With sports-related activities, we also examine organizations that are involved in competitions and training events. Tournament organizers, for example, are often aware of suspicious behavior among instructors, whether they witness an event or hear about it from others.
Aside from sensing that an instructor is engaging in sexually inappropriate conduct, businesses must have effective screening procedures in place, including criminal background checks. Unfortunately, some of these places neglect such common sense measures in order to save money, or choose to hire someone solely based on their competition record.
In case you were not aware, employers of businesses that work with children are mandatory reporters. That means owners, administrators, and staff members must report all suspicions or accusations of child sexual abuse to the police or the county child protective services agency. Neglecting this duty is punishable by a hefty fine and up to 6 months in jail. Victims also have the option of filing a civil claim for sexual assault and recovering monetary damages like medical expenses, emotional trauma, and pain and suffering.
Determining who is responsible for the sexual abuse of a minor is a complicated subject that requires help from an experienced attorney. Contac the jiu jitsu instructor sexual assault lawyers of Normandie to learn about your rights and legal options.
Suing for Sex Abuse During Childhood – What is the Deadline?
Under California’s Assembly Bill 218, victims of childhood sexual assault have until their 40th birthday to sue an individual or entity for the harm they suffered. In essence, the statute of limitations for a child sexual abuse lawsuit is 22 years from when you are legally an adult.
So, if you are past the age of 40, are you prohibited from seeking monetary damages? That depends on when you discovered the harmful effects of being sexually assaulted while you were a minor. Like many other survivors, you may not have realized how the trauma of sexual assault has impacted your mental health. Victims can struggle with issues like substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, and problems managing their anger for many years before they figure out that these are the effects of the abuse they endured.
At the point of discovery, you have 5 years to file a child sex abuse claim, no matter how old you are. For more information about the deadline to sue for sexual abuse prior the age of 18, schedule a free case review with one of our legal experts.
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While lawsuits result in compensation for the victim, it can also provide a sense of justice and accountability for those who failed in their duty of care. This is particularly important with businesses and sports organizations that serve children.
If you were sexually abused by a jiu jitsu instructor or any other adult while you were a martial arts student, our attorneys are here to help, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We offer free consultation, along with a Zero Fee Guarantee, so you pay $0 upfront if you choose to go ahead with a lawsuit. At the point of recovering your settlement, a portion of it is deducted for legal expenses. This is our only form of payment, so we make $0 if we fail to win your case.
Contact us today and speak with an attorney who can help you sue for sexual assault by a martial arts instructor.
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