Most people are not aware about the laws regarding the transmission of STDs and civil lawsuits in Los Angeles and California. One of the most devastating things a person in a monogamous relationship can discover, is that they have been infected with a sexually transmitted disease (“STD”) by their partner. The feelings of mistrust and betrayal can be overpowering. After the initial feelings of betrayal subside, people begin to wonder if their significant other has been cheating on them, or if they had known about their STD status all along. Fortunately, in California, there is legal redress for victims of these instances, if their sexual partner has knowingly transmitted an STD to them.
Many people wonder how it can be proven that their partner “knew” that they had an STD when it was transmitted. Oftentimes, people that are infected with an STD, such as herpes or HPV, will have signs or symptoms of an infection such as genital burning, irritation, or lesions, that should make them aware that they have an infection. Other times, people will actually have a positive test result that definitely should have indicated to them that they are infected with an infection. Evidence like this is strong proof that the person knew, or using reasonableness should have known, that they were infected with an STD.
If an individual is infected with an STD, they have the legal obligation to inform their partner before sex, that they are in fact the carrier of an STD. If they do not, and they expose their partner to an STD, they can be held liable for damages which can include emotional damages, punitive damages, and medical damages.
These type of STD lawsuits can be more complex than the average case, and it is strongly recommended that you speak to an experienced attorney before attempting to pursue this type of claim alone. At the Law Firm of Rivers Morrell, we have extensive experience with STDs and civil lawsuits in Los Angeles and California. We are dedicated to resolve your claims efficiently, confidentially and for the maximum value allowable under California law. You deserve to have the resources necessary to deal with your STD, and move forward with your life. Please feel free to contact the Law Firm of Rivers Morrell for a free consultation at (949)305-1400 to discuss your claims and injuries. We are experienced attorneys and staff that will advocate your claims for you!
