How to Sue a Texas School for Sexual Abuse

At Hager Law, we know that few experiences are more devastating than discovering your child was sexually abused—especially in a setting that should have been safe, such as a school. When a school district, teacher, or staff member fails to protect a student, the emotional and legal aftermath can feel overwhelming. You may be asking: Can I sue a Texas school for sexual abuse?

The short answer is yes, in many cases, you can. Texas law allows victims and their families to seek justice and financial compensation when negligence or misconduct lead to harm, subject to certain limitations. Below, our attorneys explain how the process works, what steps you should take, and how our firm can help you hold the right parties accountable.

Understanding School Liability in Texas Sexual Abuse Cases

When a sexual assault occurs on school grounds—or involves a teacher, coach, or staff member—the school district may be held liable under certain circumstances. Liability depends on whether the school or its employees:

• Failed to protect the student from known risks or patterns of misconduct.
• Ignored prior complaints or failed to properly investigate reports.
• Did not follow mandatory reporting laws, which require school personnel to report suspected abuse.
• Hired or retained employees despite a history of inappropriate behavior or criminal records.

Under Texas Education Code §21.006, educators must report any sexual misconduct with a student to the State Board for Educator Certification and local authorities. Failing to do so can lead to criminal charges—and strengthen a civil case against the school for negligence or deliberate indifference.

At Hager Law, we help families gather evidence to show how the school’s actions—or inaction—allowed abuse to occur. Our attorneys carefully investigate every detail to determine the appropriate parties to name in a lawsuit.

Who Can Be Held Responsible?

When you sue a Texas school for sexual abuse, multiple individuals or entities may be held accountable:

1. The perpetrator – The teacher, coach, staff member, or even another student who committed the abuse.

2. The school district – For failing to implement policies that protect students or for ignoring warning signs.

3. Administrators or supervisors – If they failed to investigate reports or violated reporting laws.

4. Third parties – Such as contractors, transportation providers, or extracurricular organizations operating under the school’s authority.

Each case is unique, and our goal is to identify every responsible party to maximize the chances of justice and compensation for the survivor.

Legal Grounds for Suing a Texas School

Sexual abuse lawsuits against Texas schools often fall under several legal theories, including:

• Negligence: The school failed to take reasonable steps to protect students.
• Negligent hiring or retention: The school employed an individual with a known history of misconduct.
• Failure to supervise: The abuse occurred during school activities due to inadequate supervision.
• Civil rights violations (Title IX): The school ignored or mishandled reports of sexual misconduct, creating a hostile educational environment.

In some cases, both state law claims and federal Title IX claims may apply. Hager Law’s attorneys understand how to navigate both systems to ensure your claim is filed properly and on time.

Filing a Claim: The Process Step by Step

If you’re considering whether to sue a Texas school for sexual abuse, here’s a general overview of what the process looks like:

1. Report the Abuse

Make an immediate report to law enforcement and Child Protective Services (CPS). This not only protects other students but also creates an official record to support your legal claim.

2. Contact a School Sexual Abuse Attorney

Because schools and districts are protected by governmental immunity in many cases, it’s crucial to work with an attorney experienced in Texas civil claims against public entities. Hager Law helps families determine if immunity applies and whether exceptions allow for a lawsuit.

3. Notice of Claim

Under the Texas Tort Claims Act, you typically must file a Notice of Claim with the school district within six months of the incident. Some cities and school districts have shorter deadlines. Missing this step can prevent you from pursuing compensation, which is why it’s vital to contact an attorney right away.

4. Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Your attorney will collect evidence such as internal reports, witness statements, background checks, and prior complaints against the accused individual or school staff.

5. Filing the Lawsuit

Once the facts are clear, your lawyer will file a civil lawsuit seeking damages for emotional trauma, counseling costs, pain and suffering, and other losses.

6. Negotiation or Trial

Many cases settle confidentially outside of court. If the school refuses to take responsibility, your attorney will prepare to present your case before a judge or jury.

What Compensation Can Be Recovered?

Survivors of school sexual abuse in Texas may be eligible for both economic and non-economic damages, including:

• Therapy and medical treatment costs
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of educational opportunities
• Punitive damages (in some cases

At Hager Law, we fight for full compensation—not just to help families recover financially, but to send a clear message that schools must prioritize student safety above all else.

Time Limits for Filing a Lawsuit

The statute of limitations in Texas for sexual abuse claims can vary. Generally, survivors have up to 30 years after turning 18 to file a civil lawsuit under recent updates to state law. However, deadlines for cases involving public schools differ due to governmental immunity rules and notice requirements changing September 1, 2025.

Because these timelines can be complex, it’s important to speak with a qualified attorney as soon as possible to preserve your right to sue.

How Hager Law Helps Survivors and Families

At Hager Law, we combine legal expertise with compassionate advocacy. Our attorneys understand how difficult it is to come forward after abuse, especially when it involves trusted educators or institutions. We approach each case with sensitivity, confidentiality, and determination to help survivors rebuild their lives.

Our firm will:

• Evaluate your potential case confidentially.
• Handle all communication with school districts and insurers.
• Work with investigators and mental health experts to strengthen your claim.
• Ensure your family’s rights are protected at every step.

You don’t have to face this process alone. Our team has extensive experience helping East Texas families navigate sensitive legal matters involving minors, schools, and government entities.

Contact Hager Law Today

If you believe your child was harmed and you’d like information to sue a Texas school for sexual abuse, you deserve justice—and accountability from those who failed to protect them. The legal process may seem daunting, but with the right guidance, you can hold the responsible parties to account and begin the path to healing.

Hager Law is here to help you take that step. Contact our Tyler, Texas, office today for a confidential consultation about your case. We’ll explain your rights, outline your legal options, and help you pursue the justice your family deserves.