People turn to athletic trainers when they want to improve their health or meet certain fitness goals they are unable to achieve on their own. These individuals put a degree of trust in their trainers, as they are often in close physical contact with each other. Unfortunately, this is an ideal situation for a potential abuser to strike.
If you have been abused by your trainer, a dedicated assault attorney is here to help. Regardless of whether criminal charges are filed, you have an opportunity to pursue a civil suit against your abuser. Reach out to Phillips Law Group to discuss your athletic trainer sexual abuse claims.
Sexual abuse cases can proceed through both the criminal and civil justice systems, but each serves a different purpose. A criminal case is prosecuted by the state and focuses on punishing the offender. If the defendant is found guilty, they face the risk of jail time, fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. These proceedings do not provide financial compensation to the victim, who has little say in whether the case moves forward at all.
A civil case, by contrast, is initiated by the survivor and seeks monetary damages for the harm they suffered. The burden of proof is lower in civil court, meaning that a victim could succeed even when there is not enough proof for a criminal conviction.
A criminal conviction can significantly impact a civil suit. It may serve as strong evidence of wrongdoing, especially if the same facts underlie both cases. Even without a conviction, however, a civil lawsuit can still move forward and succeed on its own merits.
Athletic trainers work closely with athletes in private, often vulnerable settings, which can create opportunities for boundary violations. Because trainers frequently provide hands-on guidance, there is a risk that the trust they build may be exploited. Many victims are minors or young adults who may not fully understand appropriate boundaries or feel empowered to speak out.
In some cases, abusers may use their knowledge of injuries and physical care to normalize inappropriate contact. The confidential nature of athletic care can also make abuse difficult to detect, especially during private sessions. Institutions that fail to screen employees properly, provide adequate supervision, or establish clear reporting protocols may unintentionally enable this behavior. In these situations, it may be possible to sue the institution as part of an athletic trainer sexual abuse case.
No one should ever be victimized by a fitness professional who has abused their trust. If you have an athletic trainer sexual abuse claim, the right attorney could help you secure a measure of justice. This is true regardless of whether criminal charges are ever filed. Reach out to Phillips Law Group today for a confidential consultation.
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