Can I Sue an Organization for Sexual Abuse?

This content contains sensitive subject matter related to sexual abuse.

Even when survivors come forward, the abuser may not face criminal charges because too much time has passed or the abuser has passed away. However, the organizations that were in charge of some of these abusers may be held accountable for allowing the abuse to go on.

Survivors of child sexual assault may be able to file a claim for damages in civil court. A civil sex abuse case can help survivors get compensation and hold the organizations liable. For more information about sexual abuse cases, talk to an experienced sexual abuse attorney for legal advice.

When Is an Organization Liable for Sexual Abuse?

Organizations, churches, and schools can be held responsible for the actions of their employees. Victims of sexual abuse can take legal action against the abusers and the organizations. Victims of abuse and their loved ones can file a claim for failure to protect individuals from abuse, allowing abuse to continue, or allowing abuse to happen on the organization’s property.

Sexual Abuse Lawsuit Against Churches

Religious organizations have paid out hundreds of millions in settlements for abuse victims. The Catholic Church has had tens of thousands of victims come forward to report abuse by priests. Even after church leaders became aware of abuse claims, they would allow some of these priests to continue working with children.

Sexual Abuse Lawsuit Against Colleges and Universities

Colleges and universities are supposed to be institutions of higher learning where young people can continue to learn, grow, and prepare for careers. Unfortunately, some professors, staff, and administrators take advantage of their positions to abuse students. Universities and colleges should be held accountable for failing to take action to protect students and young people.

There have been several high-profile abuse and sexual assault cases involving universities in recent years. Penn State settled a sexual abuse claim for more than $100 million. Michigan State settled a sexual abuse case for $500 million. The University of Michigan settled claims involving more than 1,000 people for $490 million in financial compensation.

Sexual Abuse Lawsuit Against Boy Scouts or Others

Some organizations are supposed to help young people develop into good moral and ethical adults. Unfortunately, some people take advantage of these organizations for abuse. The organization should be taking action to protect young boys and girls. However, the Boy Scouts of America were found to have failed young scouts in allowing abuse to go on. The Boy Scouts reached a $2.46 billion settlement for sexual abuse survivors.

How Much Time to Sue an Organization for Abuse?

Under state law, there may be a limited amount of time to file a civil lawsuit for childhood sexual abuse. The time limit is known as the statute of limitations. The statute of limitations for some civil cases can be as little as two years. However, some states have passed laws specifically addressing molestation and child sexual contact. These laws have extended the statute of limitations for child victims of sexual assault to still come forward as adults to seek money in a civil claim.

What Damages Can I Recover for Sexual Abuse?

Damages refer to the financial award you can get in a personal injury lawsuit. Compensatory damages are supposed to compensate the victim for their losses. No amount of money can reverse the damage done by sexual abuse, but a large award holds the organization responsible for their wrongful actions.

Damages in a child sexual abuse case can include economic damages, non-economic damages, and punitive damages. Monetary compensation can include payment for:

• Medical bills
• Mental health care
• Emotional distress
• Pain and suffering
• Post-traumatic stress disorder

Survivors of sexual assault involving religious organizations, school districts, or daycare centers may be able to hold the organization responsible in a civil suit. But there may be a time limit for filing a child sex abuse claim. To find out about your rights, talk to a sexual abuse lawyer in your area with experience representing victims like you. A lawyer can advise you about the best way to proceed.