This site is the dedicated prison sexual abuse practice of The Wagner Law Group, led by Nicholas “Butch” Wagner — a California trial attorney with over 42 years of experience fighting for survivors against some of the most powerful institutions in the country. If you were sexually abused while incarcerated, we are here to fight for everything you are owed. Call 833-200-7111 for a free, confidential consultation. No fee unless we win.
Who We Are
The Wagner Law Group has represented California victims for over four decades. We created this dedicated practice to give survivors of prison sexual abuse focused, experienced legal representation — because the institutions responsible have armies of lawyers, and you deserve someone who has beaten organizations like them before.
We handle civil rights claims against the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the Federal Bureau of Prisons, individual correctional officers, wardens, and any other staff who violated your rights. Every case is handled with complete confidentiality.
Nicholas “Butch” Wagner
Nicholas “Butch” Wagner graduated as class valedictorian from St. Xavier University in 1980 and earned his law degree from the University of Notre Dame Law School in 1983. He has been licensed to practice in all California state courts, all federal courts, and the United States Court of Claims since 1990.
Over four decades of trial work, Mr. Wagner has achieved multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of America’s largest corporations and government institutions — including a nearly $75 million verdict against Walmart and direct litigation experience against PG&E. He has argued before the California Supreme Court and testified as an expert witness before the California State Assembly.
For survivors of prison sexual abuse, that track record matters. Government institutions and their legal teams count on survivors not having experienced representation. We level that playing field.
Why We Take Prison Sexual Abuse Cases
Incarcerated people are among the most vulnerable in our society — isolated from family, stripped of autonomy, and entirely dependent on the institution that houses them. When prison staff exploit that vulnerability to commit sexual abuse, it is one of the most serious violations of civil rights imaginable.
The law is clear. There is no consent between an inmate and a correctional officer. Every act of sexual contact between prison staff and an incarcerated person is illegal — and both the individual abuser and the institution that failed to stop them can be held accountable.
We take these cases because the stakes are too high to leave survivors without a fighter in their corner.
Our Track Record
- 42 years of California trial experience
- Over $300 million recovered for clients across California
- Direct litigation experience against PG&E and other major institutions
- Multi-million dollar verdicts against Walmart, Bolthouse Farms, Pepsi Co., and more
- Licensed in all California state courts, all federal courts, and the U.S. Court of Claims
- National television appearances including Good Morning America and Court TV
Giving Back
The Wagner Law Group provides pro bono legal assistance through the California Rural Legal Assistance group, delivering access to justice for low-income rural workers across California. We believe the legal system should work for everyone — not just those who can afford it.
Ready to Fight for You
If you were sexually abused while incarcerated at FCI Dublin, Chowchilla, CIW, or any other California facility, contact us today. Every consultation is free and completely confidential.
Call 833-200-7111 or fill out the contact form for a free consultation.
For the full firm profile, visit thewagnerlawgroup.com.