In Texas, the relationships between athletes and their coaches or trainers can unfortunately be misused, leading to instances of sexual assault that leave deep and lasting effects. These incidents often arise not only from individual misconduct but also from systemic shortcomings that allow abuse to go unreported or unaddressed. The power coaches and trainers hold, combined with limited oversight in some environments, can create situations where abuse is concealed and victims are left without proper support or recourse.
If you or your child has experienced sexual assault by a coach or athletic trainer, Falcon Law Group is committed to guiding families through the legal process to hold those responsible accountable for causing harm. Contact Falcon Law Group today to have a free and confidential consultation about your legal options and to start pursuing justice.
Recognizing Sexual Assault and Abuse by Coaches
Early recognition creates opportunities to stop the abuse, provide support to the survivor, and hold perpetrators accountable. Vigilance and education about these warning signs empower families to protect athletes from sexual abuse.
Signs of possible sexual assault or grooming by a coach may include:
- Sudden changes in behavior or mood, such as withdrawal, anxiety, or depression.
- Unexplained bruises or injuries, especially near intimate areas.
- Secretive or excessive communication with the coach (texts, calls, social media).
- Isolating from teammates, friends, or family.
- Receiving gifts or special privileges exclusively from the coach.
- Discussing sexual topics is inappropriate for their age or comfort level.
- Avoiding physical contact or being fearful of certain places or people.
- Decline in academic or sports performance.
Steps to Take After an Incident
Addressing a sexual assault or abuse incident involving a coach or trainer requires careful attention to both the survivor’s well-being and the need for confidentiality, particularly when minors are involved. After a sexual assault by a coach or trainer, consider the following steps:
- Ensure the immediate safety of the survivor by removing them from the harmful environment.
- Seek professional medical care and an examination to address any physical or psychological harm.
- Gather any potential evidence, such as messages, photos, or other documentation surrounding the incident.
- Report the incident to local law enforcement or appropriate authorities to initiate an official investigation.
- Contact a trusted legal team experienced in handling sexual assault cases to guide you through protections and legal filings.
- Utilize counseling and advocacy services to support emotional and mental health needs.
Legal Protections for Survivors Under Texas Law
When it comes to holding coaches and trainers accountable for sexual abuse, survivors have multiple legal options to hold their abuser accountable for the harm they caused. It’s important to remember that these options are not mutually exclusive. Both criminal and civil legal actions can be pursued independently and/or simultaneously to seek justice and compensation.
Criminal vs. Civil Legal Options
Criminal charges focus on prosecuting the perpetrator for violating state laws such as sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault. In Texas, these charges carry severe penalties including imprisonment, fines, and registration as a sex offender. Criminal cases emphasize public safety and punishment, ensuring that abusers are held responsible under the law.
Civil lawsuits enable survivors to seek monetary compensation for the harm caused. This includes damages for emotional distress, medical expenses, lost earnings, therapy costs, and more. Civil litigation also targets institutions that may have neglected their duty to protect athletes by failing to supervise, ignore reports, or enable abusive environments.
At Falcon Law Group, our personal injury attorneys will discuss all your legal options and discuss how criminal and civil charges can be brought against your coach or trainer. We have extensive knowledge of the civil court system and are prepared to fight for accountability.
Statute of Limitations in Texas
For adults who experienced sexual abuse after the age of 18, Texas law generally sets a two‑year statute of limitations for filing a civil lawsuit against the abuser. However, this timeline can vary depending on the specific facts of the case, such as whether the abuse was part of a broader crime, whether the perpetrator faced criminal prosecution, or whether the abuse occurred in an institutional setting. In some instances, claims may be extended if fraud, threats, or intimidation delayed the survivor’s ability to come forward.
For those who suffered sexual abuse as minors, the statute of limitations for filing a civil lawsuit extends up to 30 years after they turn 18. This means a survivor has until around age 48 to pursue legal claims related to childhood sexual abuse.
Partnering with a knowledgeable legal team like Falcon Law Group ensures every step is managed efficiently, helping avoid missed deadlines or important opportunities for justice. Our team is committed to helping survivors and their families hold coaches, trainers, and institutions accountable, while guarding the survivor’s dignity and privacy throughout the process.
Liability of Schools and Organizations
Those who can be held liable for sexual abuse incidents include:
- The individual perpetrator of the abuse.
- Employers or supervisors who failed to prevent or report abuse.
- Property owners where the abuse occurred under negligent conditions.
- Schools, sports organizations, or clubs are responsible for oversight and safety.
- Third parties, such as contractors or volunteers affiliated with these institutions.
Schools and organizations bear particular responsibility under Texas law. They can be held liable if staff negligently failed to protect students or athletes from known dangers or ignored reports of abuse. This liability arises from their duty to provide a safe environment and enforce policies that prevent misconduct. When institutions fail in this duty, civil claims can seek to hold them accountable for their role in allowing abuse to occur or persist.
Resources for Victims
When someone in a position of trust, like a coach or trainer, takes advantage of a young athlete’s confidence and role, the impact can be deeply personal and painful. Knowing there are people and organizations ready to listen and assist can make a meaningful difference in a survivor’s recovery.
Survivors and their families can turn to these trusted resources for support:
- Texas Association Against Sexual Assault (TAASA)
- SAFE Alliance (24/7 hotline: 512-267-SAFE)
- Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) Hotline: 800-656-HOPE
- Legal Aid for Survivors of Sexual Assault (LASSA)
- Texas Advocacy Project for legal advice and protective orders
At Falcon Law Group, our team offers not only skilled legal guidance but also compassionate support, walking alongside survivors and their families every step of the way. We help protect your privacy, guide you through the legal process, and connect you with resources to support healing.
How Falcon Law Group Supports Survivors
At Falcon Law Group, we know the immense courage it takes to confront sexual abuse by coaches, trainers, or institutions. We don’t just advocate in the courtroom—we stand with survivors every step of the way. Our team helps families and loved ones identify warning signs, ensures survivors are never left to navigate the system alone, and pursues justice against individuals and organizations that enabled or ignored the abuse.
With us, survivors receive not only legal representation but also support rooted in dignity, respect, and the unwavering belief that every survivor’s voice deserves to be heard.
Take Action Today, Contact Our Texas Sexual Abuse Lawyers
Falcon Law Group’s sexual abuse lawyers are ready to provide confidential guidance tailored to your situation. Our Texas firm prioritizes confidentiality to support survivors who are still healing. Contact us today to discuss your legal options.
