Top Youth Residential Treatment Center Sexual Abuse Lawyer in NY - Free Consultation

 Navigating the legal system can be a daunting process, especially when it involves children. If your child has experienced sexual abuse or other forms of mistreatment in a treatment center, it is critical to have an experienced advocate on your side. Our Personal Injury Law Firm, Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf, has been based in New York for more than 100 years. Unlike law firms with multiple offices across the country, our firm’s deep roots and extensive familiarity with the New York court system allow us to achieve Exceptional Advocacy for Child Sexual Abuse Cases.

Our New York Sexual Abuse Attorneys achieved one of the largest sexual abuse settlements in the country—a $27.5 million settlement with the Diocese of Brooklyn on behalf of four boys who were repeatedly sexually abused by a catechism teacher. This historic result highlights our dedication and ability to secure justice for survivors of sexual abuse. We bring the same level of commitment and expertise to every case we handle, ensuring that families affected by abuse receive the support and results they deserve.

As lawyers with extensive experience in youth advocacy, we understand that every case involving a child is unique. We offer comprehensive legal services in cases involving:

• Sexual abuse or misconduct in residential treatment centers
• Negligence or failure to prevent abuse

We also assist families in navigating the appeals process and challenging decisions that negatively impact their child’s future. Our firm prioritizes compassionate advocacy while maintaining an aggressive approach to securing the best possible outcome for your child.

• More Than 100 Years of Experience: Our attorneys have successfully represented families across New York, protecting the rights of juveniles in residential treatment centers.
• Commitment to Justice: We believe that no child’s future should be jeopardized by abuse, inadequate care, or unfair treatment.
• Tailored Strategies: We develop personalized strategies to address the specific needs of each client, ensuring the best possible resolution.
• Deep Knowledge of New York Courts: Unlike national firms, our New York roots allow us to navigate the state’s legal system effectively, providing an edge in achieving exceptional results.

Youth residential treatment centers are designed to provide structured care for young people who face behavioral, emotional, or mental health challenges. However, these facilities do not always provide the safe and supportive environment they promise. Unfortunately, cases of sexual abuse, neglect, and violations of children's rights are not uncommon.

Our attorneys understand the complexities of these cases and are prepared to take action if your child has experienced harm while in a residential treatment center. Whether it involves sexual abuse, improper medical care, neglectful supervision, or inappropriate disciplinary measures, we work tirelessly to hold these institutions accountable and seek justice for your family.

The following residential treatment centers in New York have a history of abuse allegations:

In December 2024, 20 lawsuits were filed alleging sexual abuse of patients at two locations: Lewisboro and Saratoga Springs. In February 2017, a woman filed court papers alleging that her then-13-year-old daughter had been repeatedly sexually assaulted at Four Winds Hospital in Katonah in 2015. On February 7, 2017, Dominic R. Sbordone, a 31-year-old employee of the hospital, was arrested and charged with third-degree criminal sexual act and second-degree sexual abuse for engaging in sexual acts with a 19-year-old patient.

In August 2024, an employee at the Devereux facility in Red Hook was convicted of abusing a non-verbal 14-year-old resident with autism who had recently undergone brain surgery. The employee was found guilty of second-degree endangerment of the welfare of an incompetent or physically disabled person.

In 2008, Mandi Weeks, a teacher at Devereux, was charged with multiple counts of sexual abuse involving a vulnerable student. Weeks allegedly raped and sexually abused a 15-year-old boy with an IQ of 50 on multiple occasions.

Allegations against the Family Foundation School include physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Reports detail forced strip searches, social isolation, and degrading therapy sessions. Survivors have shared accounts of being restrained, starved, or forced into labor. In 2024, a former teacher was indicted on federal charges for coercing students into sexual abuse between 1994 and 2001.

In 2018, federal authorities charged 19 individuals with sex trafficking of girls and women, including nine recruited from Hawthorne Cedar Knolls. The facility was closed following years of controversy.

In 2024, a former employee at WellLife Network in Dix Hills was indicted for allegedly raping a 13-year-old resident multiple times. The abuse occurred over several months, both inside and outside the group home.

Ex-residents of Children’s Village in Dobbs Ferry have filed lawsuits alleging rampant sexual abuse. Accounts include staff negligence, abuse by older residents, and assaults in unsupervised areas. Multiple incidents involved staff members abusing their authority to exploit residents.

New York residential treatment centers have consistently faced allegations of abuse, spanning decades. These cases underscore the urgent need for reform and legal accountability to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.

If your child has experienced sexual abuse or other mistreatment in a residential treatment center, don’t wait to take action. The sooner you have legal representation, the better the chances of protecting your child’s rights and future. Contact Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman, and Mackauf today to schedule a free and confidential consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.

Call 212-943-1090 or fill out our online form to get started. Together, we can work to ensure your child receives the care, respect, and fair treatment they deserve.