Children placed in Texas foster homes deserve safety and stability. Tragically, some face a devastating betrayal: sexual assault. These young survivors, already grappling with the trauma of family separation, endure further harm within a system meant to protect them.

Grossman Law Offices understands the profound pain and confusion caused by Texas foster home sexual assault. We're committed to holding perpetrators accountable and empowering survivors and their families to pursue justice.

Why Are Foster Children Vulnerable?

Children in foster care face unique challenges that heighten their vulnerability to abuse, including sexual assault. These factors contribute to their increased risk.

• Trauma and instability. Many foster children have experienced significant trauma, which can impair their ability to recognize and respond to dangerous situations. Additionally, frequent placement changes disrupt their sense of security and make them more susceptible to manipulation.
• Emotional and behavioral challenges. The stress of removal from their families can lead to emotional and behavioral difficulties, making them more likely to trust or depend on adults inappropriately.
• Lack of boundaries. Some children in foster care may have difficulty understanding and setting personal boundaries, making them more vulnerable to exploitation.
• Systemic oversights. While the foster care system aims to protect children, it has flaws. Overburdened caseworkers and a shortage of qualified foster homes can contribute to inadequate supervision and increased risk.

These factors create a complex environment where children are at heightened risk of harm, emphasizing the critical need for comprehensive protection and support.

How Long Do I Have to Bring a Texas Foster Home Sexual Assault Claim?

Typically, personal injury cases have a two-year limitation period in Texas. However, the statute of limitations for survivors of sexual assault is notably extended to allow them more time to come forward. According to Texas law, a survivor of sexual assault has five years from the date of the assault to file a civil lawsuit. Because foster home sexual assault survivors are minors, they have 30 years from the date of the assault to file a claim, which is the statute of limitations for sexual crimes involving minors. 

Failing to file a civil claim for sexual assault promptly in Texas can have serious repercussions:

• Loss of legal recourse. You lose the right to seek compensation or hold perpetrators accountable.
• Evidence deterioration. Evidence may degrade over time, making it harder to substantiate your claim.
• Emotional impact. Not pursuing legal action can prolong feelings of unresolved trauma.
• Accountability. Perpetrators and institutions may continue to evade responsibility, potentially allowing further harm.

For survivors, it's crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the legal timeframe. Grossman Law Offices is here to support you through the process and help you seek the justice you deserve.

Related: A Victim’s Guide to Sexual Assault Civil Lawsuits in Texas

What Compensation Can I Receive for My Sexual Assault in Foster Homes Case?

Perpetrators of sexual assault in foster homes can face criminal charges, which may result in penalties such as imprisonment or fines. However, criminal proceedings focus on punishing the offender and do not provide financial compensation to survivors. By filing a civil lawsuit, survivors can seek damages for the harm caused by the assault. This legal action is separate from criminal charges and aims to provide financial relief for the impact of the assault.

Here’s a breakdown of what compensation you might receive and the types of damages available.

Economic Damages

Economic damages, including medical expenses and lost wages, can be easily quantifiable. Medical expenses include the costs related to physical and psychological treatment required due to the assault, such as doctor visits, prescriptions, and therapy. Lost wages refer to the reimbursement for income lost due to the inability to work as a result of the trauma.

Noneconomic Damages

Noneconomic damages are more challenging to calculate because they are not quantifiable. Instead, they are more subjective. Pain and suffering damages refer to compensation for physical pain, anxiety, depression, and other psychological impacts caused by the assault. Emotional distress damages refer to the ongoing mental health issues and the long-term effects of the trauma. You can also get compensation for the impact on your ability to enjoy daily activities and hobbies due to the trauma of the assault. This damage is called loss of enjoyment of life.

Contact Grossman Law Offices and Get the Support You Deserve

Navigating the legal system after experiencing sexual assault can be overwhelming. At Grossman Law Offices, with over three decades of experience, we offer compassionate and understanding support to help you seek the compensation and justice you deserve. Our team is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process with sensitivity and care, ensuring your rights are protected and your voice is heard.

Contact us today to discuss your case with our experienced attorneys and find out how we can assist you in pursuing the justice and compensation you need to move forward.