Youth sports allow children and teenagers to socialize with their peers, challenge themselves to learn new skills and enjoy regular time spent exercising enjoyably. Many organizations run sports teams and leagues for young players, from city-run municipal sports to more formally organized private institutions. In all these spaces, the safety of children should be paramount — and the organizations should have a duty to protect their participants from harm.
Unfortunately, that is not always the case. As we’ve seen through blockbuster cases in the courts and the media, such as the Nasser and Sandusky abuse cases, sports organizations have a severe problem with sexual abuse and misconduct. While those high-profile cases garnered attention, less time has been spent focused on wrongdoing that affects only one or a few young people.
Are you the parent of a child abused by a coach, teammate, or another adult involved in their youth sports organization? This terrible breach of trust can have long-lasting effects. Your family has the right to pursue closure and justice through the civil litigation system. At HHJ Trial Attorneys, we can help.
We are San Diego’s Award-winning personal injury law firm. In the last three years, our San Diego personal injury lawyers have won tens of millions in settlements and verdicts for our clients. HHJ Trial Attorneys have been featured in the San Diego local news (ABC 10News San Diego) for recovering some of most challenging personal injury cases in southern California.
Defense offered $350,000 before trial
Defense offered $0 before trial. Largest therapist sexual abuse jury verdict in San Diego County.
Defendants offer was $150,000 before trial. We got 17 times the offer at trial for our client.
“Who is responsible?” is the key legal question in these cases and resolving it can be difficult due to the patchwork of laws that exists. However, recent legislative changes have made it easier to seek justice for sports organizations that abuse youth players. In some cases, the individual responsible will themselves be the target of a civil lawsuit. In other cases, it may include both the individual and the organization that employed them.
Establishing negligence and the culpability required to win a settlement or a court case can be difficult, especially in cases involving younger children. However, a legal team with direct experience with the law and similar cases can help you and your family take this important step.
There are several reasons to consider partnering with a firm such as HHJ Trial Attorneys to address the fallout from abuse within a sports organization. Potential outcomes include:
Every case is different, and so is every potential case outcome. The most detailed answers will come from attorneys informed on the situation and relevant case law.
Cases related to the abuse of children are immensely challenging, legally and emotionally. At HHJ Trial Attorneys, we understand the difficult position occupied by families in these situations. To support your needs, we offer a safe and calm environment for discussing the events and how to proceed with the potential for civil litigation. We believe survivors, and we believe that they deserve an advocate prepared to seek closure and compensation aggressively.
To speak with someone today, please contact us for a consultation.
