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Call Us (866) GO-SEE-SAM
Sep 20, 2024
Did you know that over one-third of the US workforce is bound by non-disclosure agreements (NDAs)? The Harvard Business Review recently wrote that NDAs in the United States are “out of control.”
While NDAs can be unfair for countless employees, these legal contracts can have particularly severe implications for victims of sexual abuse and assault by prohibiting them from discussing sexual misconduct. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the impact of non-disclosure agreements in sexual assault cases, recent legislative changes, and what you need to know about protecting your rights.
A non-disclosure agreement, or NDA, is a provision often found in legal and employment contracts. It requires one or both parties to keep certain information confidential. In the context of sexual assault cases, NDAs have become a controversial tool that can silence victims and protect perpetrators.
NDAs are commonly used across many industries. They’re added within contracts to protect trade secrets, confidential business information, and sometimes, unfortunately, to cover up misconduct like sexual assault and sexual abuse. The widespread use of these agreements has significant implications for workplace culture and employee rights.
The use of NDAs in sexual assault and harassment cases has come under intense scrutiny in recent years. Here’s why:
High-profile sexual abuse cases have brought the misuse of NDAs to light:
The impact of NDAs on sexual assault survivors is severe. These agreements effectively take away a survivor’s voice, making them afraid to speak out for fear of legal repercussions or job loss.
Additionally, NDAs can provide protection for sexual predators. By concealing lawsuit settlements or even the existence of sexual abuse claims, NDAs can shield individual perpetrators and institutions from public scrutiny and accountability.
Don’t let an NDA keep you silenced. To speak with a compassionate and experienced sexual assault NDA lawyer about your situation, contact Dordulian Law Group today by calling 866-GO-SEE-SAM for a free and confidential consultation.
In response to growing awareness and advocacy, lawmakers are taking action to limit the power of NDAs in sexual assault and harassment cases.
The #MeToo movement has been a significant catalyst for change in the scope of NDA usage, prompting legislatures in multiple states to limit or ban confidentiality agreements related to sexual harassment and discrimination.
The legal landscape surrounding NDA enforcement in sexual assault cases is evolving. If you live in California, here’s what you need to know:
Outside of California, different courts have applied varying decisions related to NDA enforcement. The good news for survivors is that, even in jurisdictions without specific laws limiting NDAs in sexual assault cases, courts have the discretion not to enforce these agreements, especially if they involve serious sex offenses.
NDAs are generally not enforceable if:
If you’re bound by an NDA but have experienced or witnessed sexual assault, it’s important to understand your rights:
If you’re unsure about your rights under an NDA, it’s important to consult with an experienced sexual assault and abuse lawyer from D Law Group. Our dedicated team can provide guidance on your specific situation and help protect your rights.
D Law Group is a top-rated and nationally-recognized sexual assault and sexual abuse firm that has helped survivors secure more than $200,000,000.00 in settlements and verdicts with a near-perfect 98% winning record.
Founded by Sam Dordulian, a former sex crimes prosecutor and member of the National Leadership Council for RAINN (the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence nonprofit), D Law Group provides survivors with a unique type of full-service legal representation which includes access to a 24/7 support network of professionals.
Meet the D Law Group SAJE Team (Sexual Assault Justice Experts):
To speak with a member of the SAJE Team for your free NDA sexual assault lawyer consultation, contact us any time at 866-GO-SEE-SAM.
As awareness grows and laws continue to change, we’re likely to see further restrictions on the use of NDAs in sexual assault cases. Ongoing advocacy and legal reforms are essential to protect victims’ rights and promote accountability.
Remember, your voice matters. While NDAs can be intimidating, they should never prevent you from seeking justice or speaking your truth about sexual assault or harassment.
If you're considering speaking out, it's advisable to consult with a lawyer from D Law Group who specializes in employment law and sexual harassment cases. Our compassionate team of sexual assault lawyers can review your NDA and advise you on your rights and potential risks.
No, NDAs in sexual assault cases are not always enforceable. Many states, including California, have passed laws limiting their use in these situations, and courts may choose not to enforce them if they're deemed against public policy.
The #MeToo movement has led to significant changes in NDA laws across many states. It has prompted legislation limiting or banning the use of NDAs in sexual harassment and assault cases, giving more power to victims and enabling them to speak out.
The STAND (Stand Together Against Non-Disclosures) Act is a California law that prohibits the use of NDAs in settlements involving sexual assault, sexual abuse, sexual harassment, or sex discrimination.
Our Sexual Assault Justice Experts are here to help survivors secure justice. Contact our top-rated attorneys online or by phone for a free consultation today.
Sam Dordulian is an award-winning sexual abuse lawyer with over 25 years' experience helping survivors secure justice. As a former sex crimes prosecutor and Deputy District Attorney for L.A. County, he secured life sentences against countless sexual predators. Mr. Dordulian currently serves on the National Leadership Council for RAINN.
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