Florida Sexual Abuse Attorney Assisting Those Harmed In Sports Organizations

Athletic organizations are meant to provide an avenue for good-spirited competition. This is true whether the organization involves youth-football games or professional athletes. It is important to understand that, in addition to organizing events, these organizations have duties that go well beyond the competition. These duties include the obligation of ensuring the well-being and safety of athletes, spectators, and others. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon to hear about sexual assault, molestation, and harassment within these organizations. While nothing can change the past and erase such a horrific event, it is important to make sure that your rights remain protected. One step towards protecting your rights is to contact a Florida sexual abuse attorney immediately.

Bringing Suit Against Coaches, Athletic Directors, and Others for Sexual Assault

Florida sports organizations have a duty to reasonably screen and supervise their employees. They also have a duty to provide a safe environment for those utilizing their facilities or services. Unfortunately, they sometimes fail in these duties and sexual abuse of athletes, students, or others, occurs as a result. In such instances, it is possible to bring a claim against the perpetrator as well as the organization itself.

In addition to the protections provided under Florida law, the Safe Sport Act of 2017 requires mandatory reporting of any known acts of sexual abuse against youth athletes. 

Common claims against sports organizations involve coaches, assistant coaches, athletic directors, and others in positions of authority. In some cases, the abuse may go on for years without being reported. Examples of such conduct can include:

• The sexual assault of athletes

• Withholding playing time unless the demands are met

• Threatening to make negative statements to college recruiters

• Threatening to punish other team members unless the demands are met

• Etc.

If you, a family member, or others that you know have been the victims of such conduct then it is important to report it to law enforcement immediately.

Contact a Florida Sexual Abuse Attorney For Claims Against Athletic Organizations

It is important to take immediate steps to protect your interests if you have been abused by a coach, team administrator, or other staff member. You only have a limited amount of time in which to bring your claim. Time, therefore, can be of the essence. Our Florida sexual abuse attorneys understand that this is a horrible situation and we will stand up for your rights. Contact us online, by email at lewisteam@searcylaw.com, or by telephone at 800-780-8607.