In recent years, there have been many allegations of sex abuse within sports organizations that work with children. Aside from recently abused victims, we are finding out that countless youth athletes from decades ago were raped or groomed for sexual relationship by their coaches. In fact, some of the cases at our law firm go back to the 1970, and it’s distressing to realize that this is just the tip of iceberg, as many victims are too ashamed or afraid to speak out.
Were you sexually assaulted by a soccer coach prior to the age of 18? Sadly, there are predatory individuals that apply for jobs as coaches and coaching assistants, as it provides them with immediate access to victims. These children come into the sport with high hopes and expectations, and leave with psychological trauma that haunts them for life.
Thanks to social media campaigns and outreach groups, many victims are coming forward with their stories and finding resources to help them move forward with their life. But those who were subjected to sexual abuse can also take action by filing a child sexual assault lawsuit. If you are struggling with the impact of sex abuse by a sports coach, our law firm can help you explore the option of suing the coach, a school district, sports organization, etc. To schedule a free case evaluation with a soccer coach sexual assault lawyer, contact the offices of Normandie Law Firm.
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The Impact of Sexual Abuse During Childhood
Children who are forced or coerced into a sexual relationship with an adult struggle with many heath issues on a physical, emotional, and psychological level. The betrayal cuts particularly deep when the perpetrator is a coach they admire. However, understanding just how the abuse impacted your life and what it took away from you does not happen right away. Even more difficult is putting your pain and suffering into words and seeking help from a therapist or support group.
As we mentioned before, victims can also speak with an attorney to see if filing a lawsuit is in their best interest. The clients we represent are from many different backgrounds, but many of them come to us as adults. By then, they are dealing with mood disorders, suicidal thoughts, commitment phobias, drug and alcohol dependency, and many other mental health issues. These problems are a direct result of sexual abuse, and the feelings of shame, anger, and guilt that are associated with these incidents. Victims also tell us about how the abuse took away their love for soccer and created a lifelong resentment towards authority figures.
We know that money can’t make up for everything you lost, but filing a lawsuit is a powerful statement against the entities that ignored your cries for help or promised to do the right thing, then allowed your case to slip through the cracks. No matter the circumstance, our sexual assault lawyers are here to listen and guide you through the legal process from start to finish.
Who can I Sue if I was Sexually Assaulted by a Soccer Coach?
The parties you can sue for monetary damages is based on a legal concept known as “duty of care.” For example, a school district has a duty to protect the students at their schools from harmful situations, like accidents, assault and battery, and sexual abuse by a staff member. The same responsibilities apply to private sports academies and governing organizations that work with youth athletes. When it comes to sexual assault, you must prove that the defendant (whoever you are suing) caused or contributed to the harm you suffered, either through an act of negligence or misconduct.
Typically, coach sexual abuse claims are based on negligence, like failing to report allegations or identity the signs of a sexually inappropriate relationship. Or, a soccer coach may be allowed to keep their job, even when there are multiple complaints of sexual misconduct from athletes, parents, and other employees. These and other circumstances can form the basis for a youth sports sexual abuse lawsuit, which you can learn more about during a free, initial case review.
Case Values for a Child Sexual Abuse Claim
Sexual assault lawsuits filed by survivors of childhood abuse typically end up in 6 to 7 figure settlements or verdicts. Overall, victims who were forced or manipulated into a sexual relationship can end up with anywhere from $450,000 to $5,000,000. Claims for sexual assault of a minor are generally worth more than cases of sexual exploitation and harassment, though this is not an absolute rule. In our experience, lawsuits for child sexual assault (any physical interactions of a sexual nature between adult and minors) can settle for $1,500,000 to $10,000,000. A lawsuit for harassment and solicitation, on the other hand, is likely to settle for less than $1,000,000.
At the end of the day, an experienced sexual assault attorney is the most reliable source of information if you are wondering how much you can receive from a lawsuit for sexual abuse by a soccer coach.
Time Limit to Sue for Sexual Assault by a Soccer Coach
A lawsuit for the sexual abuse of a minor by an adult has a deadline of 22 years under California law. However, the statute of limitations for child victims does not begin until they are 18, i.e., a legal adult. Thus, you have until the age or 40 to file a soccer coach sexual abuse lawsuit against the individuals and organizations that failed to protect you.
The laws in California include a discovery rule, which is based on when the victim discovered, or reasonably should have discovered the harm that resulted from sex abuse during childhood. These injuries may be physical, but most of the cases we handle are based on the realization of mental health issues (psychological damage). Don’t worry if you are unfamiliar with this legal exception, which we can discuss with you during a free case review. The important thing is to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to determine how long you have for a sports coach sexual assault lawsuit.
No Upfront Cost to Hire a Sexual Abuse Attorney
One thing that holds victims back from contacting a law firm is how much it will cost to hire a lawyer that can sue for sexual assault. Here at Normandie, all of our attorneys work on contingency, so you will never pay out of pocket for the entire duration of your case. Our payment comes at the end of your case when you are compensated by the defendant, either from a settlement or a trial verdict. We also have a Zero Fee Guarantee program, which is our promise to you that you pay absolutely nothing unless you receive compensation from a successful lawsuit.
For more information on your rights and legal options from a soccer coach sexual assault lawyer, contact our office as your earliest opportunity.
Other Pages on Our Website Related to This Topic
Baseball Coach Sexual Assault Lawyer
Basketball Coach Sexual Assault Lawyer
Sexual Abuse by Little League Coach Lawsuit Attorney