Teacher and School Abuse Victims Attorneys in New Jersey
Parents trust schools and teachers to provide a safe environment for children to learn and grow. Whether in public or private schools, educators are given extraordinary authority and responsibility. When that trust is broken and children are abused, the consequences are devastating and lifelong.
At Leonard Legal Group, our attorneys represent survivors of sexual abuse by teachers and school staff. We hold educators, administrators, and school districts accountable when they fail to protect children. Survivors deserve justice, and negligent institutions must be held responsible.
New Jersey Laws Protecting Survivors
New Jersey has some of the strongest laws in the nation for survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Even if abuse occurred decades ago, survivors may still bring claims against both abusers and the schools that allowed the abuse to happen.
These laws reflect the reality that:
- Childhood sexual abuse has lifelong consequences
- Schools and teachers have a legal duty to protect students
- Survivors should be able to seek justice no matter how much time has passed
Justice delayed is not always justice denied. By coming forward, survivors can hold schools accountable and help prevent future abuse.
The Responsibility of Teachers and Schools
Teachers in public and private schools are entrusted with the care of children. Institutions must:
- Carefully screen and train staff
- Monitor classrooms and student interactions
- Investigate and respond to reports of misconduct
- Remove abusers from positions of authority
When schools fail in these duties, they can be held legally responsible for the harm caused to students.
Example: Hillsdale Board of Education Case
Leonard Legal Group recently filed a lawsuit against the Hillsdale Board of Education and George White Elementary School, alleging that former teacher Howard Schultz sexually abused a second-grade student in the 1980s.
This follows another case against the same school district, which resulted in a $3 million settlement after the trial earlier this year. These cases show the serious responsibility schools bear—and the tragic consequences when they fail to protect children.
Our Commitment to Survivors
For more than 29 years, Leonard Legal Group has represented survivors of sexual abuse across New Jersey. We provide compassionate, confidential support while aggressively pursuing justice against abusers and the schools that enabled them.
If you or someone you know experienced abuse by a teacher or school employee, you are not alone. We are here to listen, support, and fight for the justice you deserve. Call (973) 984-1414 or contact us online today!