Dave Ring Speaks on Psychologist’s Testimony in Sexual Abuse Case of Special Needs Victim Against LAUSD
Partner Dave Ring represented the family of a 9-year-old special needs female student who was sexually abused by a fellow classmate against the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). The family sued LAUSD for financial compensation to pay for her much needed long-term therapy. Dr. Stan Katz, a psychologist hired by LAUSD, testified that due to the girl’s low IQ, the abuse she experienced in fact reduced the amount of her emotional distress.
In an article published by KPCC, Mr. Ring said, “I have handled hundreds of cases where the experts have given depositions, and I’ve never heard [the protective factor argument] in the way it was said.”
Several experts disagreed with Dr. Katz’ testimony and said due to her developmental disability, it puts her at an even higher risk for this type of trauma.
Additionally, Mr. Ring said, “The jury was offended, they were disgusted and they thought it was unbelievable that an expert witness could come in and say something like that.”
The jury ultimately awarded the girl $1.4 million in damages.
Serving clients throughout the Greater Los Angeles and Southern California area, we represent victims in a variety of civil litigation cases. If you or a loved one has been injured, turn to an experienced Los Angeles personal injury or sexual assault lawyer.
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