Understanding Institutional Sexual Abuse Claims
Institutional sexual abuse occurs when institutions fail to protect individuals from sexual assault or molestation by their employees, volunteers or others in their care. These claims involve two areas of responsibility; first the individual who caused the harm and second the institution that failed to stop or punish the misconduct. In Texas civil courts you may sue both the person who committed the abuse and the institution that allowed it.
Common Institutions Where Abuse Can Occur
Sexual abuse in institutional contexts can happen in many settings. If you experienced abuse in any of the following places you may have a claim against the institution:
- Religious organizations (churches, mosques, synagogues)
- Private and public schools, including boarding schools
- Daycare centers and preschool programs
- Childcare facilities and after‑school programs
- Residential treatment centers for minors
- Summer camps, including day and overnight camps
- Sports teams or youth leagues
- Foster care and group homes
- Juvenile detention centers and correctional facilities
- Hospitals, clinics and health care institutions
- Universities and colleges, including Greek life and dorms
- Scouting organizations
- Community centers and youth clubs
- Mentoring programs and social service agencies
This list is not exhaustive. Many institutions have a duty to protect those in their care. If that duty is breached, you may have the right to pursue compensation.
Why Choose Hill Law Firm?
- Personalized service: We tailor every case to your story and priorities, ensuring your voice is heard.
- Client‑first commitment: Your healing and justice matter more than our bottom line.
- Millions recovered: We have secured significant awards for victims of institutional abuse.
- 99 % success rate: Our record shows we fight hard and achieve results.
How the Firm Will Support You
Investigation and Evidence Collection
We collaborate with private investigators and experts to gather records, personnel files, internal reports, incident logs and witness statements. Texas law allows you to request internal probes by institutions and file subpoenas for relevant documents. Proper evidence is essential to prove that the institution knew or should have known about the risk.
Civil Lawsuits for Compensation
Victims of institutional abuse can recover:
- Medical expenses including therapy
- Lost earnings and career setbacks
- Pain and suffering and emotional trauma
- Punitive damages when institutions acted with gross negligence
We build case value based on severity, evidence, expert testimony and lasting impacts.
Protective Orders and Safety Planning
Even after abuse ends you may feel unsafe. We guide you through obtaining temporary or final protective orders under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Chapter 7B to restrict future contact and improve safety.
Coordination with Criminal Authorities
Institutional abuse often overlaps with criminal prosecutions. We work with district attorneys, police and Child Protective Services to support investigations and strengthen your civil claim.
The Scope of the Problem
Institutional sexual abuse affects thousands of vulnerable people each year. RAINN reports that nearly 1 in 5 women and 1 in 71 men are raped in their lifetime in the U.S NSVRC. A 2023 study found that 72 percent of victims of sexual abuse in congregate care experienced abuse by other residents or staff.
Our Four-step Legal Process
- Free consultation: we discuss your experience, legal options and next steps.
- Document gathering: we collect evidence from institutions, medical professionals and witnesses.
- Demand and negotiation: We pursue fair settlements from responsible institutions.
- Trial representation: if necessary we take your claim to court and fight for full compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I file a lawsuit years after the abuse?
Yes. Texas allows survivors to file institutional abuse claims until age 30 or until 3 years after the injury is discovered. Exceptions may apply, so contact us for a detailed review.
Do I need proof the institution knew about the abuse?
You need to show the institution knew or should have known of risk and did nothing. We can pursue personnel files, reports or prior complaints that show they ignored warning signs.
Will this case go to criminal court?
Criminal prosecution depends on law enforcement and the district attorney. You can pursue a civil claim even if no criminal charges are filed.
What if the abuser is dead or unknown?
You can still sue the institution. Claims against negligent institutions may be valid even without identifying the individual abuser.
How much will it cost to hire you?
Our firm works on contingency. You pay nothing upfront and only owe us fees if we recover money for you.
Nearby Cities & Towns
- New Braunfels, TX
- Boerne, TX
- Cibolo, TX
- Seguin, TX
- Kerrville, TX
- Comfort, TX
- Kingsville, TX
- Schertz, TX
If you were harmed by institutional sexual abuse you do not have to face this alone. Hill Law Firm is ready to stand with you, fight for justice and help you begin rebuilding your life. Call us now for a free, confidential consultation.