California — A California sexual assault law allows prosecutors to consolidate related offenses committed across multiple counties into a single criminal proceeding. The rule may reduce the need for repeated court appearances by survivors while helping courts evaluate related allegations more efficiently.
California Expands Venue Options for Cross-County Cases
Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 806 in October 2023, changing how California may prosecute certain crimes occurring in multiple jurisdictions. Before the amendment, connected allegations could require separate proceedings depending on where each offense happened.
The law permits qualifying charges to be prosecuted in a county where at least one alleged offense occurred. Consolidation is not automatic. Prosecutors from the affected counties must agree to the selected venue, and a court must hold a hearing before joining the charges.
Judges may consider where most alleged offenses occurred, the location and complexity of the evidence, the rights of the accused and the prosecution, and potential hardship to survivors or witnesses. The statute applies to specified sexual offenses, domestic violence crimes, stalking, human trafficking, and related conduct.
What the Cross-County Rule Means for Survivors
California’s cross-county sexual assault law primarily addresses criminal jurisdiction and trial venue. It does not automatically establish guilt, ensure that charges will be consolidated, or determine whether a survivor has a separate civil claim.
The rule may affect a case by:
- Allowing qualifying offenses from different counties to be presented in one proceeding
- Reducing the possibility that survivors must testify in several separate trials
- Helping prosecutors present evidence showing an alleged pattern of connected conduct
- Requiring agreement from district attorneys whose counties have jurisdiction
- Directing courts to consider hardship to survivors and witnesses
Criminal prosecution is handled by government authorities. A survivor might also seek compensation through a civil sexual assault claim against the alleged perpetrator or responsible party. Options depend on facts, evidence, deadlines, and the survivor’s age at the time of abuse.
Seek Legal Guidance After Sexual Assault
Sexual assault can affect a survivor’s safety, emotional well-being, relationships, education, and work. When allegations involve multiple counties, the legal process may become even more complex.
Women’s Rights Group helps survivors assess civil claims, preserve evidence, and identify potentially responsible parties. A sexual assault lawyer can explain available options, filing deadlines, and the difference between a civil case and criminal prosecution.
Contact us for a free, confidential consultation.
