Historic $16 Million Settlement: A Landmark Victory Against Sexual Abuse in NYC Schools
In an unprecedented victory for victims of sexual abuse, the Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff achieved a record-setting $16 million verdict against the New York City Board of Education. The lawsuit stemmed from a grievous case of a child who suffered sexual molestation at the hands of her teacher in a New York City school.
The landmark victory arrived after a tenacious litigation battle, defined by the City's dismissive and arrogant refusal to offer a reasonable settlement to the child, represented by Mr. Lamonsoff. Despite the profoundly life-altering trauma endured by the young student, the City's lawyers initially proposed a mere $150,000 settlement, a sum widely considered as woefully inadequate given the gravity of the case.
As the trial progressed, the City's final offer just before the jury's deliberation was a slightly increased amount of $350,000. Still, it was starkly disproportionate to the severity of the child's suffering and the gross negligence displayed by the City's educational institution. Based on the advice and with the consent of his clients, Mr. Lamonsoff rejected the City's paltry settlement offer, standing firm in his pursuit of a verdict that reflected the true depth of his client's anguish.
Driven by a staunch desire to hold the City accountable for their flagrant negligence and to prevent similar occurrences in the future, Mr. Lamonsoff and his clients pressed for a just resolution. Their unwavering determination was rewarded when, after a relatively brief deliberation, the jury ruled in their favor. The Board of Education was found to have acted with reckless disregard for the welfare of the child entrusted to their care.
The jury's decision culminated in one of the largest verdicts in New York's legal history — an astonishing $16 million. This monumental award served as a stern rebuke to the City and a clear message to all institutions, highlighting their responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of children under their care.
However, amidst this landmark victory, it's crucial to remember the human toll at the heart of this legal battle. The $16 million verdict is a stark recognition of the immense suffering endured by the young victim, but it does not, and cannot, erase the horrific abuse she suffered. No monetary award can fully compensate her for the traumatic experience she underwent, a grim reality that underscores the vital importance of safeguarding our children.
In summary, the remarkable $16 million settlement secured by the Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff is not just a record-breaking legal victory. It is a resounding declaration of society's commitment to protect its most vulnerable members and a sharp indictment of those who fail in their duty to do so. This case serves as a potent reminder to all educational institutions of their paramount responsibility: the safety and protection of the children in their care.
If you or a loved one have suffered sexual abuse or sexual assault of any kind, sexual abuse and assault lawyers with The Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff, PLLC are ready to discuss your case and explain your options. Schedule your free consultation today.