Sexual Misconduct & Physical Abuse Litigation
Attorneys in This Practice Area
Related Practice Groups
Anne S. Frankel, Esquire
Chair
484-567-5754
asfrankel@burnswhite.com
Allegations of misconduct and abuse pose significant challenges to organizations, exposing them to reputational harm, operational disruption, and substantial civil litigation risks.
From a defense perspective, these cases demand a strategic and comprehensive approach to effectively navigate the legal, financial, and public relations implications. Our practice group is committed to guiding clients through these challenges with expertise, discretion, and care. We understand the profound impact these matters can have on all parties involved and prioritize strategies that balance vigorous defense with sensitivity and awareness.
Key Pillars of Our Approach
Early Investigation and Response:
Our team emphasizes the importance of swift and thorough investigations at the earliest stages of a claim or allegation. By identifying key facts, preserving evidence, and assessing risks early, we help clients establish a clear and informed strategy from the outset. This proactive approach often mitigates escalation and positions our clients for stronger outcomes.
Aggressive Discovery and Defenses:
We pursue meticulous discovery strategies to uncover key information, challenge inaccuracies, and build a robust defense. Our team is prepared to litigate aggressively when necessary, ensuring that our client’s rights and interests are a top priority.
Corporate Oversight and Accountability:
Our team advises clients on managing organizational oversight to mitigate risk, ensure compliance with best practices, and reinforce ethical and operational standards. This includes board-level consultations and executive training on safeguarding responsibilities.
Trauma-Informed Advocacy:
We recognize the importance of addressing allegations with care and understanding, ensuring that all interactions—whether with claimants, witnesses, or stakeholders—are handled to minimize retraumatization while effectively gathering critical facts.
Risk Mitigation and Reputation Management:
Understanding the broader impact of these claims, we focus on minimizing legal exposure and reputational harm.
Collaborative Solutions:
We work closely with opposing counsel to explore avenues for resolution that align with our client’s goals, avoiding unnecessary escalation while ensuring fairness and equity.
Future Safeguards:
Beyond immediate case resolution, we help clients implement preventative measures, including policy development, training programs, and independent audits, to reduce the risk of future claims and foster safer environments.
Our Commitment
Our team combines legal excellence with a deep commitment to ethical advocacy. We understand that every case is unique and requires tailored strategies to address the legal, operational, and reputational challenges posed by these complex matters.
By integrating a trauma-informed perspective focusing on risk mitigation and long-term safeguards, we empower our clients to navigate these sensitive issues with confidence and integrity.