WATSON GOEPEL LLP
Institutional Abuse Lawyers Serving Survivors Across British Columbia
If you experienced abuse while under the care or supervision of a school, religious organization, foster care program, residential facility, sports organization, youth program, or another institution, you may have legal options.
Our lawyers understand how difficult it can be to come forward. We provide confidential, trauma-informed legal guidance to help survivors understand their rights and determine whether compensation may be available.
There is no cost for your initial consultation.
Compassionate Advocacy. Experienced Representation.
Coming forward after experiencing institutional abuse can be overwhelming. Many survivors wait years, or even decades, before speaking about what happened.
Our legal team approaches every consultation with care, compassion, and respect. We provide clear legal guidance while helping survivors pursue accountability and compensation where appropriate.
Speak with our team today.
Call Us (604) 688-1301
Serving British Columbians Since 1984
Types of Institutional Abuse Claims We Assist With
Our lawyers help individuals who have suffered abuse, neglect, or exploitation in institutional settings.
Childhood Sexual Abuse
We represent survivors who experienced sexual abuse while under the supervision or authority of an institution.
Physical Abuse
We assist survivors who suffered physical mistreatment, violence, or excessive force.
Emotional & Psychological Abuse
We help individuals harmed by intimidation, coercion, humiliation, threats, and other forms of psychological abuse.
Abuse in Religious Organizations
We assist with claims involving churches, religious leaders, and faith-based organizations.
Foster Care & Group Home Abuse
We assist survivors who experienced abuse or neglect while under government or third-party care.
Residential Facilities
We assist with claims involving residential schools, treatment facilities, boarding schools, and other institutions.
Sports & Youth Organizations
We assist with claims involving abuse committed by coaches, instructors, volunteers, or others in positions of trust.
Elder Abuse & Neglect
We assist with matters involving mistreatment or neglect within care facilities or other institutional settings.
Meet Your Legal Team
Experienced Litigation Lawyers Advocating for Survivors
When survivors contact Watson Goepel, they gain the support of an experienced litigation team with a proven history of guiding clients through complex and sensitive matters.
Featured Lawyer
Janet De Vita
Co-Managing Partner
Janet De Vita is Co-Managing Partner at Watson Goepel and leads the firm's Personal Injury Group.
Janet has spent more than two decades helping individuals navigate difficult and life-changing circumstances. She has represented clients before the Provincial Court of British Columbia, the Supreme Court of British Columbia, and the British Columbia Court of Appeal.
Her approach combines strong advocacy with clear, compassionate guidance, helping clients understand their legal options every step of the way.
“My goal is to provide clarity and support to individuals navigating complex circumstances.”
- Co-Managing Partner
- 20+ Years at Watson Goepel
- Trial & Appellate Experience
- Experienced Negotiator & Mediator
Featured Lawyer
Katharine E. Hennebery
Senior Associate
Katharine is an experienced litigator who has appeared before both the Provincial Court and Supreme Court of British Columbia.
She is known for her compassionate client approach and dedication to ensuring clients remain informed and supported throughout the legal process.
“I pride myself on being the best advocate I can be for my clients, while still being approachable and ensuring my clients are comfortable and informed at every stage of the legal process.”
Katharine and the Watson Goepel litigation team are committed to helping survivors understand their rights and move forward with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my consultation confidential?
Yes. All discussions with our lawyers are confidential.
What if the abuse happened many years ago?
Many survivors come forward years or decades after the events occurred. A lawyer can review your specific circumstances and explain your options.
Do I need a police report?
Not necessarily. Every matter is unique and should be assessed individually.
Will I have to go to court?
Many legal claims resolve without a trial. During your consultation, we can explain the process and what may be involved in your situation.
What does it cost to speak with a lawyer?
There is no charge for your initial consultation.
Advocacy. Accountability. Support.
Helping Survivors Pursue Justice
Our goal is to help survivors pursue accountability and seek compensation for the harm they have experienced.
We recognize that legal action cannot undo what happened. However, it can provide financial support, acknowledgment, and a pathway toward accountability.
Every case is unique, which is why we take the time to understand your circumstances and develop a strategy tailored to your needs.
Guidance from your first conversation.
Contacting a lawyer after experiencing institutional abuse can feel intimidating. Our consultation process is designed to make individuals feel safe, respected, and informed from the very first conversation.
When you contact Watson Goepel, we will:
- Listen to your story
- Explain potential legal options
- Answer your questions
- Discuss possible next steps
- Help you make an informed decision about moving forward
There is no obligation to proceed after speaking with us.
Request your free, confidential consultation today. Call (604) 688-1301 or complete the form above.
