NFL Quarterback Settles Latest Civil Sexual Assault Lawsuit

According to a report from NBC 6 South Florida, Deshaun Watson—the starting quarterback for the NFL’s Cleveland Browns—has agreed to a confidential settlement in a civil sexual assault lawsuit. It was just the latest claim against Mr. Watson—who has previously settled nearly two dozen similar civil sexual abuse claims. Here, our Miami civil sexual assault lawyer provides a more detailed overview of the settlement and the law.

Deshaun Watson Accused of Sexual Assault in Texas in 2020 

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson faced a number of sexual misconduct allegations over recent years. He reached nearly a dozen settlements in civil sexual misconduct claims. In the 2022 season, the NFL suspended Mr. Watson for 11 games. In September 2024 he was hit with another civil lawsuit, this time accusing him of sexual assault. The plaintiff, Jane Doe, alleged that Mr. Watson assaulted her during an October 2020 encounter in Houston, Texas.

 Confidential Sexual Misconduct Settlement Reached 

The attorney for the plaintiff confirmed to the Associated Press (AP) that a settlement was reached with the NFL quarterback. The plaintiff had been seeking $1 million in damages. Though, the specific terms of the settlement agreement are confidential. As part of the agreement, the plaintiff’s attorney confirmed that she will not participate in any further NFL investigation into Mr. Watson.

Sexual Violence Victims Have the Right to Bring a Civil Claim 

Sexual violence is a crime. The assailant must be held accountable—and that often means criminal charges. At the same time, victims can take separate legal action through Florida’s civil claims process to seek compensation for their damages. These types of sexual battery claims generally fit into two broad categories:

• Civil Sexual Assault Claim Against Offender: Victims can file a lawsuit directly against the perpetrator to recover damages for the physical, emotional, and financial impacts of the assault. If the offender is a high-net worth individual—such as an NFL quarterback—a claim directly against them may be viable. However, the challenge is that many sexual assault offenses are committed by people who lack assets to cover civil damages.
• Civil Sexual Assault Claim Against Negligent Third Party: If a third party, such as an employer or property owner, failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the assault, victims can pursue a claim for negligence, holding them liable for their role in creating unsafe conditions. For example, imagine a teacher assaulting a student. The school district could bear civil liability for hiring such an unsafe person. A civil claim against a third party may be a better option for recovering compensation for some victims of sexual misconduct.

Get Help From a Civil Sexual Battery Attorney in South Florida Today

At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our Florida civil sexual assault and battery claims lawyer is committed to fighting for justice for victims. We always put the needs and interests of our clients first. If you have any questions about a civil sexual assault claim, our team is here to help. Contact us today for a free, no obligation consultation. We represent victims throughout all of South Florida.

Source:

nbcmiami.com/news/sports/nfl/browns-deshaun-watson-settles-latest-lawsuit-sexual-assault/3437714/?os=ioxa42gdub5U1ENqic&ref=app