When we entrust our children to schools, churches, care facilities, or youth organizations, we expect them to be safe. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. If your child has been harmed—physically, emotionally, or sexually—by someone working in an institution, the pain, anger, and confusion you’re feeling is unimaginable. You’re not alone. And more importantly, you have rights.
At Moran Law Group, we represent abuse and crime victims across Pennsylvania. As the top personal injury law firm in Scranton, we help families navigate these incredibly painful and complicated cases with strength, compassion, and clarity. If you’re asking yourself whether to take legal action, this article will help you understand your civil options and what to expect.
What Is Institutional Abuse?
Institutional abuse refers to mistreatment that happens in a setting where an organization is responsible for a child’s safety and care. This can include:
- Public or private schools
- Boarding schools
- Juvenile detention centers
- Religious organizations
- Daycares or after-school programs
- Group homes or foster care facilities
- Residential treatment centers
- Summer camps
- Youth sports leagues
The abuse may be physical, emotional, sexual, or involve neglect. Sometimes it’s committed by a teacher, counselor, coach, clergy member, or staff. In other cases, it’s another child—but the adults in charge failed to supervise or respond appropriately.
When the institution fails to prevent or properly respond to abuse, they may be legally responsible—and that’s where a personal injury attorney in Scranton can step in.
Criminal vs. Civil Cases: What’s the Difference?
One of the most common questions we hear is: “If criminal charges are being filed, do I also need to hire a personal injury attorney?”
Yes—because criminal and civil cases are completely different.
- Criminal Case:
This is brought by the state to punish the abuser for breaking the law. It can result in jail time, probation, or being registered as a sex offender.
However, a criminal case does not compensate the victim for what they went through. - Civil Case:
This is brought by you, the victim or family, to seek financial compensation. A civil case can hold both the abuser and the institution financially accountable for:- Medical treatment
- Therapy and psychological care
- Lost future opportunities
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Punitive damages (in some cases)
You don’t have to choose one over the other. Many families pursue both criminal justice and civil compensation. And our job is to support you fully during the civil side of that process.
Will My Child Have to Testify in Court?
We understand how terrifying this question can feel. Many families are afraid that pursuing a civil case means putting their child through another trauma—especially if it means being in a courtroom and seeing their abuser again.
Here’s what you should know:
- Most civil cases settle out of court.
With a strong case, many institutions or their insurance companies agree to settle before trial. This often avoids the need for public testimony. - When court is necessary, we protect your child.
If your case does go to trial, our attorneys will work closely with you to prepare. In many cases involving minors, special protections are available, such as closed courtrooms or testimony via video. - You are in control.
We will never push you or your child to move forward with a case if you’re not ready. Our job is to support your decisions and make sure you’re fully informed.
Your child has already been through something unthinkable. Let us carry the legal burden.
Who Can Be Held Liable in an Institutional Abuse Case?
Liability in these cases can be complex—and that’s why having an experienced firm like Moran Law Group matters.
Depending on the facts, civil claims may be filed against:
- The individual abuser
- School administrators who ignored warning signs
- Churches or dioceses who failed to report allegations
- Youth organization leaders who didn’t run background checks
- Facilities that didn’t train or supervise staff
- Government agencies responsible for oversight
In many cases, it’s not just about what happened—it’s about what the institution failed to do. Did they ignore red flags? Hide complaints? Allow the abuser continued access to children?
As a Scranton personal injury lawyer, our firm investigates these issues in-depth and builds a case that holds the entire system accountable—not just the individual.
What If the Abuse Happened Years Ago?
It’s common for survivors of childhood abuse to come forward years—or even decades—later. And that’s completely valid. Trauma can take time to process, and many victims don’t feel safe enough to speak up until they’re adults.
The good news is that Pennsylvania law recognizes this and has adjusted time limits (called the statute of limitations) for child abuse cases.
You may still have a case, even if the abuse happened long ago. Contact us as soon as possible so we can assess your situation confidentially and honestly.
Signs That an Institution May Be Liable
Here are some red flags that often appear in institutional abuse cases:
- The facility failed to report suspected abuse to law enforcement
- They didn’t inform other parents of known allegations
- The abuser had a history of complaints or disciplinary actions
- There were no cameras or supervision in key areas
- Staff discouraged children from “telling”
- Background checks were not properly conducted
Institutions that protect abusers or fail to act enable the harm. When they do, we’re here to make sure they’re held responsible.
Why Choose Moran Law Group?
We understand that taking legal action after institutional abuse is one of the hardest decisions a parent or survivor will ever face. That’s why we’re committed to providing compassionate, clear, and courageous legal support from day one.
When you work with our team, you can expect:
Confidential Consultations — No pressure, no judgment
Trauma-informed Communication — We’re here to listen and support
Aggressive Legal Advocacy — We fight to uncover the truth and secure justice
No Fees Unless We Win — You pay nothing out-of-pocket
You need more than just legal advice—you need a partner who truly understands what’s at stake. As one of the top personal injury law firms in Scranton, Moran Law Group is uniquely equipped to help you navigate the road ahead.
Next Steps: What You Can Do Right Now
If you believe your child has suffered abuse in an institutional setting:
- Seek medical and psychological care
Your child’s health and well-being come first. Documentation from doctors and therapists can also help support your case. - Gather any evidence you have
Emails, text messages, photos, school records, or prior complaints can be important. - Contact a trusted personal injury attorney in Scranton
Early legal advice can make a major difference in how your case unfolds.
You’re not alone in this. And you don’t have to face this system without help.