California’s laws specifically protect patients and clients against sexual misconduct by medical professionals, which may include doctors, nurses, therapists, psychiatrists, and other healthcare providers.
Generally speaking, sexual assault refers to non-consensual sexual acts against an adult. In a medical or therapeutic setting, the law recognizes that the consent of a patient is not a defense. Sexual abuse refers to any sexual acts against a child. A sexual act is the unlawful touching of an intimate part of another person for the purposes of sexual arousal, gratification, or abuse and can occur either directly on the skin or through clothing.
Fighting for Justice for Survivors of Sexual Abuse and Assault by Healthcare Providers
Patients and their families put their trust in their caregivers. You trust the doctor, dentist, therapist, and other medical professionals to take care of your healthcare needs. Sexual abuse or assault by a healthcare provider betrays that trust and breaks the law.
Experienced Attorneys to Help Victims of Sexual Abuse by Medical Professionals
As a California law firm working to vanquish sexual abuse and assault in the healthcare professions, we are committed to helping survivors raise their voices and hold perpetrators accountable.
Empathetic in the Office – Aggressive in the Courtroom
Our office is a safe space. We create a compassionate and supportive environment where you can share your story. Our team of professionals understands that seeking help for sexual abuse or assault is a difficult first step to take. At Melmed Law Group, we respect your courage to reach out and we’ll be by your side every step of the way.
But make no mistake. When we enter the courtroom to take on the abuser’s defense attorneys, we are relentless.
Abuse by a Therapist
Mental-health professionals such as a psychiatrist or a therapist must maintain specific boundaries when it comes to therapeutic relationships. When a therapist crosses that line, the damage done to a patient can be severe.
Patients Must Be Safe from Sexual Assault
Stand up against sexual abuse and sexual assault by healthcare providers. With the experienced attorneys of Melmed Law Group at your side, get the justice you deserve.
Victims are silent. Survivors make noise.
The #MeToo movement launched a revolution against sexual harassment and sexual abuse. Abusers thrive in the veil of shame and embarrassment that once isolated and silenced survivors. But now—more than ever—abuse survivors are rallying together, raising a powerful and united voice against their abusers.
Complaints with the California Licensing Boards
Sexual abuse or sexual assault by a trusted healthcare provider is particularly heinous. We understand how extreme this violation of trust is, and we’ll fight to get you—and your loved ones—the justice you deserve.
Healthcare providers—including doctors, surgeons, dentists, therapists, psychiatrists, nurses, and aides—owe their patients a high standard of care. Most healthcare professionals have taken a professional vow to provide appropriate and ethical care to their patients. In addition, healthcare institutions are responsible for the safety and well being of the patients they serve. In addition to representing you in the courtroom, we can guide you through the process of filing a complaint with the California professional licensing boards.
Your Case Matters, and So Do You
If you have been sexually abused or assaulted by a medical professional, the first step is to reach out for help. At Melmed Law Group, we understand how much courage it takes to ask for help, and we will listen to you. Every survivor’s story is unique and so is our approach. We will help you gather the information needed to evaluate your case for you. Our team of attorneys is here to help.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Get the financial compensation you deserve and stop this systemic abuse in its tracks. Melmed Law Group represents people all across California, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and Sacramento. Schedule your free consultation with an attorney at Melmed Law Group. Call us at 310-824-3828 or fill out our form. Take action today!
Frequently Asked Questions:
I’ve never talked to an attorney before. What should I expect?
When you choose Melmed Law Group, you can expect to be heard. We will listen to you with respect and empathy. We’ll ask a few questions to help you determine your best course of action. And we’ll take the time to answer all your questions thoroughly.
While we’re evaluating your case, you should evaluate us. We are confident you will find our office to be a warmly professional environment and our attorneys to be both knowledgeable and empathic. Your first consultation is confidential and free.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit for sexual assault or sexual abuse by a healthcare provider?
Different types of lawsuits have different timelines. Don’t miss your opportunity to fight back against abuse and assault by waiting too long. Contact us today so we can evaluate your case right away.
What if I think other patients may have been abused too?
If you think other patients may have been abused, chances are that you’re probably right. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for an abusive healthcare provider to use their position of power to target multiple people. If this is the case, Melmed Law Group’s sexual abuse attorneys can file a class action against the abuser.
What are the benefits of a class action lawsuit?
When survivors join forces against an abusive healthcare provider, they corroborate each other’s testimony, which builds a stronger case. In addition, the costs associated with the lawsuit are divided among more people, reducing everyone’s cost. Finally, there is strength in numbers. Many survivors find great comfort and strength knowing they are not alone in the fight.
I’m really uncomfortable talking about my experience but I want to know if I have a case. Can you help?
It’s not easy. We understand. You’ve been betrayed by a trusted medical professional or therapist. At Melmed Law Group, we’ll work hard to earn your trust. And keep it. With x years of experience protecting Californians, we are here to get you the compensation you deserve and to hold healthcare professionals accountable for sexual abuse and assault.
What does the process look like?
The process starts with a phone call or, if its more comfortable for you, filling out our online form. An experienced intake attorney will carefully gather your information. Be assured, we will treat you with respect and dignity every step of the way.
What kind of compensation am I entitled to?
We will investigate your case thoroughly, secure expert witnesses, and fight aggressively on your behalf. Potential compensation may include:
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages or diminished earning capacity
- Punitive damages
What’s important to remember is that we work on a contingency basis. This means you don’t pay us unless we reach a settlement or verdict on your behalf.