Institutional sexual abuse is a devastating reality that affects individuals in schools, religious organizations, workplaces, and other structured environments. Survivors often face emotional and legal challenges when seeking justice. At Edelstein Law, located at 230 South Broad Street, Suite 900, Philadelphia, PA 19102, we are dedicated to representing survivors across Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Our experienced legal team is committed to holding institutions accountable and helping survivors reclaim their power.

What Is Institutional Sexual Abuse?

Institutional sexual abuse occurs when an individual experiences sexual misconduct within an organized setting. Institutions often have a duty to protect individuals under their care, making these cases particularly egregious when abuse occurs.

Common Institutions Where Sexual Abuse Occurs in Pennsylvania & New Jersey

1. Religious Organizations

Churches, mosques, synagogues, and other faith-based institutions where clergy members abuse their authority.

2. Schools & Universities

Public and private educational institutions, including Philadelphia public schools, Pennsylvania universities, and New Jersey school districts, where teachers, administrators, or staff commit abuse.

3. Youth Programs & Athletic Organizations

Programs such as Boy Scouts, YMCA, Little League, and youth travel sports teams throughout PA and NJ.

4. Hospitals & Medical Facilities

Medical professionals exploiting patients in Philadelphia hospitals and New Jersey healthcare centers.

5. Foster Care & Group Homes

Vulnerable children in Pennsylvania and New Jersey foster care systems facing abuse from caregivers.

6. Workplaces & Government Offices

Employers, supervisors, or co-workers engaging in sexual harassment or misconduct in Philadelphia and NJ corporate offices, local government agencies, and public institutions.

If you or someone you love has been affected by institutional sexual abuse, seeking justice can help you reclaim your rights and prevent further harm.

Steps to Take as a Survivor of Institutional Sexual Abuse

If you have experienced institutional sexual abuse in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, or New Jersey, taking the following steps can help protect your rights and support your path to healing.

1. Prioritize Your Safety & Emotional Well-Being

• Find a safe environment away from the abuser.

• Seek emotional support from trusted loved ones or professional therapists.

• Consider connecting with Philadelphia crisis centers or New Jersey survivor advocacy groups.

2. Preserve Any Evidence

• Save messages, emails, photos, or any other form of documentation related to the abuse.

• Keep a written timeline of events, including dates, locations, and potential witnesses.

• Obtain copies of medical reports if you received treatment.

3. Report the Abuse

• Contact Philadelphia police or New Jersey law enforcement to file a report.

• Report the abuse to the institution (e.g., school board, church leadership, HR department).

• Seek guidance from national and local advocacy groups like RAINN, WOAR Philadelphia Center Against Sexual Violence, and New Jersey Coalition Against Sexual Assault (NJCASA).

4. Contact an Institutional Sexual Abuse Lawyer in Philadelphia, PA & New Jersey

• A Philadelphia sexual abuse attorney or New Jersey institutional abuse lawyer can guide you through your legal options.

• Civil lawsuits can provide financial compensation and ensure institutional accountability.

• Time limits for filing claims vary, so consulting an attorney as soon as possible is crucial.

How Edelstein Law Can Help Survivors in Philadelphia, PA & NJ

At Edelstein Law, our legal team specializes in representing survivors of institutional sexual abuse across Pennsylvania and New Jersey. We are committed to providing compassionate, confidential, and aggressive legal representation to hold institutions accountable.

Why Choose Edelstein Law?

✔ Experienced in Institutional Sexual Abuse Cases – Decades of legal experience in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

✔ Compassionate Survivor-Focused Representation – A trauma-informed approach to supporting survivors.

✔ No Upfront Fees – We work on a contingency basis—you don’t pay unless we win your case.

✔ Confidential & Free Consultation – We prioritize your privacy and well-being.

Visit Our Philadelphia Office or Contact Us Today

Edelstein Law, LLP

230 South Broad Street, Suite 900, Philadelphia, PA 19102

CONTACT HERE: CONFIDENTIAL & SECURE

Call Now: (215) 893-9311

Serving Clients Throughout Pennsylvania & New Jersey