Successful Recovery for Victim of Child Sexual Abuse
The Zenor Law Firm secures a noteworthy settlement in a case against a public school district and a former principal.
Des Moines, Iowa (April 23, 2026) - The Zenor Law Firm recently secured a settlement for $9.75 million dollars on behalf of its client, a survivor of childhood sexual abuse perpetrated by a school employee. The settlement was reached shortly before trial in a case that was litigated in federal court.
The Case
The client, a minor at the time of the abuse, came forward with facts demonstrating he was systematically groomed, sexually harassed, and sexually assaulted by a teacher employed by an Iowa school district. He alleged that, despite multiple warnings and complaints from parents, students, and staff—spanning months before the abuse escalated—school officials, including the principal, failed to investigate, failed to take action, and failed to protect the client from reasonably foreseeable harm.
Our Approach
The case required exhaustive investigation and strategic litigation. Over the course of the proceedings, Adam Zenor and Allyson Aden took nearly 30 depositions and litigated numerous motions, addressing complex issues of constitutional law, institutional liability, and damages.
Through those efforts, the record that was developed showed school officials had knowledge of its teacher’s pattern of inappropriate conduct with students—yet failed to take any meaningful action to protect the client. Due to those failures, the client suffered devastating harms and losses.
The Result
Shortly before trial, the defendants agreed to resolve the case for $9.75 million dollars.
If You or a Loved One Has Been Harmed
Cases involving institutional child sexual abuse are among the most complex and emotionally demanding in civil litigation. They require a law firm that understands the unique challenges involved—and the resources and resolve to take these cases all the way to trial if necessary.
If you or someone you know has been the victim of abuse by a teacher, coach, clergy member, or other trusted figure—and an institution failed to protect them—The Zenor Law Firm may be able to help.
About The Zenor Law Firm
The Zenor Law Firm is a boutique law firm specializing in the litigation of complex cases. The firm has extensive experience in the trial and appeal of cases involving serious personal injury and wrongful death, business disputes, insurance coverage, health care, labor and employment, and regulatory and white collar matters. The firm practices in state and federal courts in Iowa and throughout the United States.