Third degree sexual assault usually refers to non-consensual sexual contact that doesn’t involve penetration but still violates someone’s bodily autonomy. Laws vary by state, but this charge often involves unwanted touching, coercion, or abuse of power.
If you’re wondering whether what happened fits this category, a Los Angeles sexual abuse lawyer can help. You don’t have to fit a label to ask questions or explore your legal rights.
Understanding what third degree sexual assault means can give you a clearer path forward, whether you’re ready to take legal action or just want answers.
What Is Third Degree Sexual Assault?
The term “third degree sexual assault” refers to unwanted sexual contact that falls short of rape but still involves a serious violation. It often includes groping, fondling, or coercive sexual behavior. Some states reserve this charge for specific age gaps, relationships of authority, or situations involving intoxicated or unconscious victims.
While California doesn’t use the phrase “third degree sexual assault” in its penal code, similar conduct falls under charges like sexual battery, lewd acts, or unwanted touching.
Other states—like New York, Wisconsin, and South Carolina—use this label for crimes involving non-consensual contact or abuse of power.
Whether or not your case uses the exact term, the law still protects you. A Los Angeles personal injury lawyer can explain how California statutes apply to what happened and what steps you can take next.
How California Classifies Sexual Battery and Related Charges
California uses specific legal terms rather than a “degree” system. For example:
- Sexual battery (Penal Code §243.4) covers non-consensual touching of intimate parts for sexual gratification, arousal, or abuse.
- Lewd acts with a minor (Penal Code §288) involve touching a child for sexual purposes.
- Rape (Penal Code §261) and related charges apply when penetration is involved, with or without force.
Third degree sexual assault in other states often aligns most closely with California’s definition of sexual battery. The act does not need to involve violence or physical restraint—just the absence of consent.
A Los Angeles sexual abuse attorney can help you determine which charge may apply and whether civil action is possible.
Recognizing Third Degree Sexual Assault in Everyday Settings
When someone uses manipulation, fear, or authority to initiate sexual contact without consent, many states categorize that as 3rd degree sexual assault. This can happen at home, in school, at work, in care facilities, or during professional services like medical exams or therapy.
Some examples include:
- A teacher touching a student’s body inappropriately
- A caregiver groping a vulnerable adult
- A coworker forcing sexual contact while threatening to harm your job
- A friend or partner crossing a boundary without consent
You don’t need physical injuries for the law to recognize the harm. Sexual abuse leaves lasting psychological impacts, even when the legal charge falls in the third degree. An attorney can help you explore civil and criminal options based on your goals, not someone else’s judgment.
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Signs of 3rd Degree Sexual Assault
You may not realize what happened qualifies as abuse until time passes. That’s common. Many survivors question themselves first or worry others won’t believe them.
But certain patterns can signal non-consensual sexual contact:
- Pressure to stay silent or keep secrets
- Changes in behavior, sleep, or mental health
- Discomfort around certain people or locations
- A sense of powerlessness in the situation
- Sexual contact that felt manipulative or forced
If anything about the interaction made you feel cornered, scared, or confused, your experience matters. Whether it fits the exact statute or not, a sexual abuse attorney in Los Angeles can help you understand your rights and options.
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California’s Lookback Window for Adult Sexual Assault Survivors
California’s civil law gives some adult survivors more time to file a lawsuit. Assembly Bill 2777 created a temporary legal window for people sexually assaulted on or after January 1, 2009. That window remains open until December 31, 2026.
California’s lookback window applies even if the original statute of limitations has already expired. A shorter, one-year window for institutional cover-ups closed at the end of 2023, but many claims still qualify under the broader rule.
These changes apply to civil claims only, not criminal charges. An attorney can review your situation privately and let you know if California’s lookback window could allow you to take action.
Legal Options for Survivors of Third Degree Sexual Assault
You can choose to:
- File a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator, an institution, or both
- Submit a police report (even if it’s outside the criminal window)
- Work with your lawyer on a confidential resolution or settlement
- Request workplace or school protections under Title IX or similar laws
Survivors don’t always want the same outcome. Some seek change, not punishment. Others want recognition, privacy, or a sense of control. You don’t have to decide everything today.
A Los Angeles sexual abuse attorney can walk you through your options without pressure and build a legal path that supports your healing.
Who Commits Third Degree Sexual Assault?
Abuse can come from someone close to you or someone in a position of power. That might be a family member, friend, coworker, or someone you trusted, such as a teacher, coach, supervisor, or caregiver. In some cases, it is a stranger. In others, it is a spouse or partner.
Consent must come freely. It cannot be pressured, assumed, or taken. Sexual abuse does not always involve violence. It often hides behind power, manipulation, or familiarity. That does not make it any less real or any less harmful.
A sexual abuse lawyer in California can help hold individuals and institutions accountable, even if the charge falls under third degree sexual assault.
When You’re Ready, a Los Angeles Sexual Abuse Lawyer Is Here
Knowing how third degree sexual assault fits into California law can help you make your next move. You don’t need legal jargon or proof to ask questions.
At Arias Sanguinetti | Trial Lawyers, we’ve helped survivors throughout California confront abusers, institutions, and systems that failed them. With over 300 years of combined experience and well over $1.5 billion recovered, we don’t back down from difficult cases.
We will do everything in our power to protect your safety and your privacy. When you’re ready, a Los Angeles sexual abuse lawyer from our team is here to listen—and to act. Give us a call today.
Call or text 310-844-9696 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
