Legal Help For Survivors Nationwide
Legal Help For Survivors Nationwide
San Diego’s juvenile detention centers, including Kearny Mesa and East Mesa, are meant to rehabilitate youth—not traumatize them. Some survivors have bravely stepped forward to share how they were abused by staff or fellow detainees. Their stories point to deeply rooted safety failures—and to a system that, far too often, turned a blind eye.
Many survivors were just kids—scared, alone, and without anyone to turn to. Rather than being protected, they were ignored, punished, or left to cope on their own. For some, it took years to fully understand the harm they had lived through.
We can help answer your questions and connect you with an attorney if you may have a case.
To support survivors, California passed Assembly Bill 218 (AB 218). It extended the deadline to file childhood sexual abuse lawsuits. Survivors now have until age 40—or five years from when they connect their emotional harm to the abuse—to take legal action.
The law also created a three-year lookback window for filing claims that would otherwise be barred by time limits. That window won’t stay open forever. If you think you may have a claim, now is the time to explore your options.
For survivors, a lawsuit can be about more than money. It’s about accountability and having your story heard. Legal action can help:
You may be able to recover damages for therapy, medical expenses, lost wages, emotional pain, and more. In some cases, punitive damages are awarded to punish misconduct.
Many survivors worry the process will be too painful or complicated. But you don’t have to go through it alone. A trauma-informed attorney can walk you through your options, explain what to expect, and protect your rights.
The process usually begins with a consultation, where you can share your experience in a private setting. From there, your attorney can help collect evidence, build your case, and represent you in negotiations or court if needed.
Most cases settle outside of court. Your lawyer can help you choose the best course of action.
Taking care of your emotional and mental health is just as important as seeking legal justice. Fortunately, there are many survivor-centered resources available:
These organizations can connect you with therapists, support groups, and other services to help you heal.
If you or someone you love has experienced abuse in a juvenile detention center, here are steps to take:
Everything you share can remain confidential. And remember: taking action is your choice—there’s no pressure or timeline on healing.
Many survivors wait years to speak up. That’s normal. Realizing what happened—and deciding to take action—can take time. But when you’re ready, there are people who believe you and want to help.
By telling your story, you can help hold institutions accountable. You can also protect future generations from going through the same pain.
You don’t need to carry this alone. Support is here, and justice is possible.
Sexual abuse includes any unwanted contact, threats, pressure, or grooming by staff or other residents. It can also involve using authority to manipulate or control someone sexually.
Yes. Thanks to AB 218, survivors can take legal action even if the abuse happened years or decades ago. A lawyer can help you understand if your case still qualifies.
Survivors may be eligible for financial support to cover therapy, medical costs, lost income, and emotional suffering. Courts may also award extra damages for institutional wrongdoing.
Yes. Most survivor claims can be filed confidentially, which means your name and details stay private during the legal process.
Not always. Many cases resolve through settlements. If yours goes to trial, your legal team will be there to guide and support you the whole way.
You’ve carried this long enough. Let us help you carry it from here. Call for a private consultation or submit your information securely online.
Survivor’s Justice is dedicated to supporting, educating, and empowering individuals affected by sexual assault and abuse. Have questions about your own experience? We’re here to help.
Support for Survivors
Survivor’s Justice is committed to supporting, educating, and empowering individuals affected by sexual assault and abuse.
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