Private School Teacher Sexual Abuse Claims
Helping survivors of sexual abuse at private schools
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Justice for Private School Sexual Abuse Survivors
Students are sexually abused or molested by educators far too often at private educational institutions. Sexually abusive teachers and school employees need to face the legal consequences for their unthinkable actions. In the case of private schools and sexual abuse by their teachers and educators, don’t hesitate to seek legal help from an experienced private school sexual abuse attorney in Maine.
Berman & Simmons Trial Attorneys advocate for rape, assault, and sexual abuse survivors throughout Maine, and seek to provide justice for those who were sexually abused by an educator at their private school. Contact us to speak with one of our experienced sex abuse attorneys today.
How Common is Sexual Abuse at Private Schools?
Sexual abuse in private schools is more common than many realize, with 1 in 10 students experiencing abuse by a teacher or school employee. According to the American Association of University Women, two-thirds of these incidents involve physical contact, highlighting the severe nature of this issue in educational institutions. Abuse occurs in various private school settings, including boarding schools, day schools, preparatory schools, therapeutic and special-purpose schools, and parochial or religious schools. Addressing this widespread problem requires accountability and support for survivors.
The following may be red flags that a teacher or school staff member is grooming a student for abuse:
- Repeatedly rewarding a particular child more than others
- Spending time alone with the child at lunch, recess, or after school
- Unwarranted attention or gifts
- Getting involved in the child’s personal affairs or giving rides
- Attending events or activities outside of the classroom to form a closer relationship with the child
- Making secret plans with the child after school
Recognizing the Signs of Abuse In Students
Recognizing child sexual abuse can be challenging, as physical and behavioral signs vary by age. Physical symptoms may include bruising around the genitals, anus, or pelvis, difficulty walking or sitting, and pain during bathroom use. These signs, regardless of age, are red flags that require immediate attention.
Behavioral changes in younger children may include regression to earlier behaviors like thumb sucking, sexually aggressive play, or resistance to clothing changes. Older children and teens may show shifts in grooming habits, self-injury, depression, or risky behaviors like substance abuse. Across all ages, mood changes, eating disturbances, sleep issues, or explicit art can indicate abuse. Recognizing these signs is crucial for early intervention and support.
The best sexual abuse lawyers, the most resources, and over $1.45 billion recovered for our clients
Berman & Simmons is widely recognized as the premier law firm in Maine for survivors of sexual abuse. But for us, that is not enough. With our unparalleled resources, trauma-informed philosophy, and depth of talent, we strive to be among the best in the country.
Year after year, we have set new records for survivors of sexual abuse. Our sex abuse attorneys have pursued justice for more abuse survivors than any other law firm in Maine. Our track record of success is built on our experience, knowledge, and determined advocacy. But handling these complex cases requires much more than mastery of the law. We have access to the world’s leading and most highly credentialed experts whose analysis and testimony are often pivotal in our efforts to obtain full compensation for our clients.
When the stakes are high, Berman & Simmons has what it takes to stand up for abuse survivors.
The Rights of a Private School Sexual Abuse Survivor
Each school abuse case is unique, and the rights and options a private school sexual abuse survivor has may depend on the details and circumstances surrounding the incident. Here’s an example:
- Parents of minor children can contact the police and hire an experienced private school teacher sex abuse lawyer to pursue criminal and civil legal action against the offender, the school, and others liable for the abuse.
- An adult who was abused as a minor may have the right to pursue legal action against those responsible. Many adult survivors of child sex abuse from private schools and private educational institutions in Maine are still able to file civil lawsuits even decades after the abuse occured.
Additionally, other factors that may influence your case and the way in which you seek justice including the time at which the abuse occurred at the private institution. The type of abuse can also be a factor, but many actions can qualify as abuse, such as:
- Inappropriate touching or remarks
- Sexual contact with a minor either in or outside of school
- Inappropriate texts or emails
- Sexual assault, rape, and molestation
- Inappropriate relationship with a minor
Our firm has experience handling private school abuse cases, so we can give you the insight and guidance you need to understand your options.
A confidential review of your case may indicate you could benefit from taking legal action. Survivors have rights that are very important to you as you navigate the process, including the right to legal representation, the right to confidentiality, and the right to tell your story at the trial. However, many cases are settled before court.
Survivors also have the right to seek financial compensation for your damages as a victim of abuse. This compensation might include:
- Medical bills and expenses
- Psychological treatment
- Emotional trauma
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of income
- Economic and noneconomic damages resulting from abuse
At Berman & Simmons, our Maine private school sex abuse lawyers are devoted to protecting the rights of abuse survivors during legal proceedings. We provide our clients with more than legal support and guidance; we also provide resources and support to help them address the emotional and psychological aftermath of child sexual abuse.
What You Can Do if You Suspect a Private School Teacher or Employee is Sexually Abusing Your Child
It’s critical for parents to be attentive to their children’s behavior. Pay close attention if you notice a sudden change in your child’s behavior, and encourage them to explain what is troubling them regardless of fear.
Growing up can bring about sudden behavioral changes, but parents should always investigate any changes to ensure they aren’t a reaction to abuse, especially if their children attend a private educational institution. Click here for a complete list of warning signs of child molestation.
A child who has been sexually molested may not understand what is happening and may display various alarming behaviors. An unexpected interest in sexual topics or sexually charged language may indicate that a child has been abused. A child who suddenly withdraws becomes emotional, unpredictable, or avoids going to school could be frightened of the teacher/educator who has abused him or her.
According to RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) the following steps should be taken if your child exhibits signs of physical abuse or molestation, and you believe that a private school teacher is responsible:
- Talk to your child first and make sure you are able to support them at this difficult time. Additionally, contact your local law enforcement if your child reports abuse.
- Take your child to the hospital. Get a rape kit right away.
- Take photos of the injuries with permission. Ask your child if it is okay to take pictures if they have sustained bruising. Then give the police those photos. Most likely, the hospital and/or police will take photographs as well.
- Offer encouragement to your child during this time. It can be terrifying to speak with law enforcement. Your child may not want you to be in the room when they describe what happened. If he or she doesn’t disclose the details to you, make sure your child has an advocate present during the process.
- Talk to the police about contacting the school. It is natural to want to find the teacher or to confront the school. You should not do this. You should contact the police instead. They are trained to handle these kinds of horrible situations.
- Contact a lawyer. Representation is essential. Once you’ve spoken with the police and taken care of your child’s health, call us. Berman & Simmons Trial Attorneys have handled hundreds of cases of teacher and school staff sexual abuse, including cases involving sexual touching, sexual grabbing, locker room transgressions, and inappropriate relationships.
- Close your social media profiles and the profiles of your children. Posting on social media does nothing for you, and it can harm your case. You should also stay away from the comment section.
Get a Free Case Evaluation with a Private School Teacher Sex Abuse Lawyer in Maine
Berman & Simmons offers free, confidential consultations to discuss your potential sexual abuse case and how we can help. To talk to a private school teacher sex abuse attorney in Maine about your case, contact us now.
If your child has been sexually abused at a private school and you need expert legal counsel, turn to Berman & Simmons. Our sexual abuse lawyers will help you get your child maximum compensation and bring accountability to where the abuse took place.
If you suffered sexual abuse as a child and are ready to speak with one of our Maine child sexual abuse attorneys and learn more about your rights, please contact us to arrange a free, confidential initial consultation.