Youth sports are meant to be a foundation for growth, character, and camaraderie. But for some young athletes in New Jersey, their experience is tainted by sexual abuse from a trusted adult—often a coach, team staff member, or volunteer. Abuse in sports isn’t just betrayal; it’s a preventable tragedy that can leave long-term psychological scars.
If you or your child experienced sexual abuse in a sports setting in NJ, our attorneys at Survivors of Abuse NJ are here to help. We understand the complexity of these cases and work aggressively to hold individuals and institutions accountable through civil lawsuits.
Types of Abuse Common in Youth Athletics
Sexual assault or molestation by a coach or trainer
Inappropriate comments, behavior, or touching
Digital harassment or coercion through texts or social media
Grooming tactics involving favoritism, gifts, or secret contact
School or league staff failing to report known misconduct
We represent survivors from recreational programs, travel teams, school leagues, and competitive youth sports environments.
New Jersey’s Civil Legal Options for Survivors
Even if law enforcement was never involved—or if the criminal process failed—you may still file a civil lawsuit in New Jersey. You can seek compensation and shine a light on institutional failures.
Recoverable damages may include:
Emotional and psychological therapy
Costs of medical care related to the abuse
Pain and suffering
Educational or professional losses
Punitive damages against enabling organizations
Our attorneys will investigate the entire system that allowed the abuse to occur—from the individual perpetrator to the administrators who failed to act.
Entities That May Be Liable:
Individual coaches or athletic staff
Youth sports organizations and nonprofits
Public or private school systems
National sports governing bodies
If institutions had complaints, ignored warning signs, or hired someone with a known history of misconduct, they may share full legal responsibility.
Why Clients Trust Us:
Extensive background in institutional abuse litigation
Supportive, trauma-informed legal care
No legal fees unless compensation is recovered
Discreet, compassionate consultations statewide
You are not alone. Let our team help you fight back and protect the next generation of athletes from experiencing what you endured.