Sexual abuse of a child is a heinous crime. Anyone who turns a blind eye to that abuse can be held accountable not only through the criminal justice system, but through civil litigation. In cases of child abuse, schools and organizations may be held accountable.
We are all aware of the large amounts of money that the Catholic Church paid to victims of sexual abuse for their role in covering up the abuse and allowing it to continue. Sadly, over the years many other organizations have paid because of the same type of cover-ups. While criminal charges can punish the abuser, a civil lawsuit can be brought against those who covered-up the abuse. It is very important for victims of the abuser to get money damages to pay for the emotional and other damages that have occurred as a result of the school, organization or business that allowed the abuse to occur.
Claims against schools
You may have a claim against a school or university if you can show that it had knowledge that allowed the abuse to take place. An example of this is if the school knew of the abuse and allowed it to continue. Whether the abuse took place at the hands of a teacher, mentor, coach, professor, a maintenance person or another student, we can help you bring a civil claim against the institution that allowed it to happen.
Statute of Limitations
Whether you were abused years ago or if your child has recently been abused, we will work to ensure the victims receive the counseling needed to move forward and hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions or inaction. Although there are time limits in Pennsylvania in which a claim must be filed, there are exceptions when you are dealing with the sexual abuse of a child. The time to bring your claim may depend on a number of factors and our firm has experience and understands the rules governing time limitations.
Free Confidential Consultation
If you or a loved one has been the victim of abuse, we invite you to call our firm for a free confidential consultation. We can help you understand your rights and help you take the steps you need should you decide to file a lawsuit. Our firm is dedicated to helping victims of negligence and there are no more worthy victims of our support than those who are survivors of sexual abuse.
Many times the victim does not want to come forward because of shame or embarrassment associated with the abuse. Your identity may be able to be kept confidential. If you are a victim please call us to discuss your potential case.
