Colorado Daycare Sexual Abuse

According to the Colorado Department of Human Services, the state of Colorado is unfortunately experiencing a rising trend when it comes to child sexual abuse. What happens when the abuse occurs in the hands of a trusted daycare provider?

Parents who suspect their child has been abused at his or her daycare facility may feel anger, confusion, and even guilt after such a life-altering trauma. Parents should not have to face this alone. Our Colorado personal injury attorneys at Carabin Shaw can help in this difficult time by providing expert legal assistance through a free initial consultation. During this case review we will answer any initial questions you have and advise you about your next steps moving forward.

No matter where the daycare is located, federal law mandates that all states adopt policies that require daycares to prioritize the safety and wellbeing of the children under their supervision. In order to do so, daycares have a duty to hire employees of good moral standing, provide a reasonably safe environment, and maintain acceptable staff-to-children ratios.

The sad reality is that many daycares fail to operate under basic federal regulations. Ignoring these mandates can result in negligence or failed supervision on behalf of the daycare.

Some of the most disastrous consequences of negligent supervision in a daycare are abuse and injury. When a daycare facility fails to provide adequate supervision, it opens up the opportunity for children to interact with other children or adults in an isolated setting. Statistics indicate that 80% of molestation and sexual abuse cases occur when a child is left alone with a bigger child or adult in power.

If you suspect your child is a victim of daycare abuse that resulted from negligent supervision, a daycare abuse attorney serving Colorado can discuss the details of your potential personal injury case.

When it comes to looking for indicators of sexual abuse, please understand that as a parent you know your child best. If your child exhibits sudden changes in behavior or unusual discomfort in the genital area, these may be indicators of sexual abuse. You can also look for the following signs.

• Inappropriate sexualized play with toys or other children
• Clinging to the parent at drop off
• Frequent nightmares or bedwetting
• Development of an STD

If you notice any physical signs of sexual abuse, seek immediate medical help. It is imperative that you also report the abuse to law enforcement so they may begin an investigation of the case and collect any relevant evidence before it disappears.

Although the state will ultimately pursue criminal charges against the defendant (person accused of abuse), this does not usually end up in monetary reparations for the victims of the abuse. A personal injury lawyer can sue the perpetrator for financial compensation on behalf of the victim and the victim’s family in a civil court.

Our group of experienced child injury lawyers serving Colorado can also file a civil lawsuit against a negligent daycare facility for physical and emotional damages sustained by the victim. Your child may need immediate and long-term care due to the abuse. An attorney will seek compensation so that your child receives any necessary treatments.

When you hire a legal expert, you are essentially allowing him or her to advocate on your behalf. This means they will communicate with defense attorneys, attend hearings, and negotiate settlements in and out of court.

One of our lawyers is ready to aggressively advocate on your behalf and seek the compensation your family deserves.

If you suspect your child has been abused by a child care provider, we encourage you to contact us toll free at 800-862-1260 to schedule your free initial consultation. Our English and Spanish-speaking staff is available 24/7 to discuss your potential case.