According to statistics shared by Childhelp, the facts about sexual assault in youth athletics programs state that around 40% to 50% of youth athletes have experienced sexual harassment or abuse.
As more cases of youth athlete sexual assault are brought to attention, it’s important to be aware of the issue and pay attention to the signs of child sexual assault. If you were abused as a child in an athletic program, or your child has faced assault, you have legal options.
Working with a Las Vegas sexual abuse attorney can make it easier for you to navigate the legal process and pursue the justice you deserve. You might be entitled to a financial settlement because of youth athlete sexual assault.
Studies State That Many Young Athletes Have Endured Some Form of Abuse
In a study conducted by Child USA, it was revealed that of the 473 elite athletes surveyed, 3.8% of them endured sexual abuse as a minor. Furthermore, 8.4% of athletes studied experienced sexual assault by a sports official or a peer athlete.
Child USA’s study also states that:
- 31.9% of elite athletes were diagnosed with some form of mental health condition.
- Elite athletes who faced sexual assault were more likely to be diagnosed with a mental health disorder than those who were not abused.
Childhelp also points out that the majority of child sexual abuse victims know the person who abused them in some way, whether they are another athlete, a coach, or a sports official. Child abuse can occur in any sport, so it’s essential to pay close attention to your child’s behavior before and after practices or games.
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You Can Take Legal Action If You Suffered Sexual Assault in Youth Athletics
If you suffered any form of sexual violence as a child in sports, you have legal options. Even if you are now an adult, you could be entitled to a settlement from the person who assaulted you.
Though the statute of limitations varies by state, many states allow survivors of sexual assault to file a civil lawsuit years after the incident occurred. In other states, you may have several years after you turn 18 to submit your case.
One way to find out which laws apply to your case is to work with a sexual assault lawyer. They can assess your case and determine what steps you’re entitled to take to pursue justice.
Evidence Your Legal Team Will Collect to Prove Sexual Assault
If you decide to pursue a sexual assault case, your law firm will need to prove the liable party owes you compensation. One way they can do this is by gathering evidence.
Some of the evidence that may support your sexual violence case includes:
- Surveillance footage
- Medical records
- Statements from lay and expert witnesses
- DNA evidence
- Photos of your injuries
You do not need to manage your child abuse case alone. Hiring an attorney allows you to avoid interacting with anyone involved in your case.
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Damages You May Recover If You Were Sexually Assaulted in Child Sports
Your Las Vegas personal injury lawyer will analyze the details of your case to determine which damages you’re eligible to recover. Although filing a civil case isn’t the same as pursuing criminal charges against your abuser, it may allow you to recover a financial settlement.
Some of the damages you can recover compensation for include:
- Mental anguish for the anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) your assault caused
- Physical pain and suffering you endured
- Medical bills for doctor’s appointments, travel to the hospital, medications, and ongoing care you need
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity, if your mental or physical injuries don’t allow you to earn money or work at the same job that you could have if not for the assault
Though a settlement can’t compensate for your suffering, it can help you stay financially stable as you seek any treatments you need.
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A Sexual Assault Lawyer Can Help You File Your Case
You might be hesitant to file a lawsuit against your abuser, especially if they are someone you know personally. However, there are many benefits to filing your case, such as getting financial justice and holding the liable party accountable.
A lawyer can help you file a case for sexual violence by:
- Gathering evidence to prove childhood sexual assault happened
- Informing you of the laws that apply to your case
- Speaking to any parties involved in your case for you
- Preparing your case for trial, if necessary
- Informing you of your legal options
- Answering any questions you have
Many personal injury law firms take sexual misconduct cases like yours on a contingency-fee basis. This way, you don’t need to worry about paying your lawyer upfront or out-of-pocket.
Signs of Sexual Assault in Youth Athletics Programs
If a child you know displays any of the following signs of abuse, it may be a good idea to intervene:
- They want to skip practices or games
- Their grades are slipping
- They are more emotional than usual
- They have trouble falling asleep or waking up
- They want to quit the sport altogether, seemingly out of nowhere
- They aren’t eating like they normally would
- They have unexplained bruises, scratches, or other injuries
While it isn’t an easy subject to bring up with your child, talking to them about sexual assault can point them to the resources they need. Abuse in sports is more common than you might think, so it’s important to be aware of the issue.
Reach Out to Van Law Firm to File a Case for Sexual Violence in Children’s Sports
The facts show that many young athletes have experienced some form of abuse, even before turning 18. While you may feel helpless, there are steps you can take to hold the liable party legally responsible.
When you call Van Law Firm, a member of our team will provide you with a free consultation. We can also explain what you should do next and offer resources to help a child who faced sexual abuse. Call us 24/7.
No obligation consultations are always free.
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