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Sequel youth and family services abuse and neglect

What is happening? Why are we pursuing legal action?

Many behavioral facilities in what is commonly known as the “Troubled Teen” industry are taking advantage of overwhelmed parents and guardians who seek help for their children. These facilities include psychiatric residential treatment facilities, therapeutic boarding schools, religious academies, wilderness programs, boot camps, drug rehabilitation centers, etc. Parents and guardians send kids to these facilities to get medical and mental health treatments. Unfortunately, sometimes these children are sent to what NBC news labeled a “profitable death trap.” (NBC)

For Sequel programs specifically, there have been numerous reports of physical abuse, sexual abuse, verbal abuse, neglect, illegal restraints, seclusion, forced medication, psychological harm, and negligence that have resulted in death at these facilities. As a result, many states have canceled contracts with Sequel causing several locations to close. Sadly, Alabama is not among these states.

Alabama Sequel programs and their facilities

Countless reports have been made of disturbing conditions at Sequel facilities across Alabama. This includes a 69-page report from an Alabama Disability Advocacy Program (ADAP) investigation of the Courtland facility. The investigation comes after the 2018 case of 14-year-old Hunter C. who attempted to commit suicide after being physically abused by Sequel employees and residents. Hunter experienced several head traumas, stitches, and concussions after being slapped, punched, and slammed into a concrete wall. Still, the Alabama Sequel facilities remain open and funded.

How to Contact

Morris Haynes Law is handling several cases involving Sequel home abuse and neglect.

If you or loved one has suffered abuse and/or neglected at a Sequel Youth facility Morris Haynes Law want to help. Please contact Jeremy Knowles of Morris Haynes Law at our Birmingham office via phone at (205) 324-4008

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Tom F. Young, Jr

Tom F. Young, Jr. was born and raised in Alexander City, Alabama, by Tom F. Young, Sr., who was District Attorney for the Fifth Judicial Circuit for more than35 years and Barbara H. Young, who was an educator for more than 30 years, as well as the first female Mayor of Alexander City.

He received his BA from the University of Alabama in 1975.

Following graduation from the University, Tom worked on the staff of Chief Justice C.C. “Bo” Tolbert and with the Administrative Office of Courts during tenure of Chief Justice Howell Heflin.

Tom Young graduated from Birmingham School of Law in 1982. While in law school, he clerked for Judge Charles Nice and later served as a Court Administrator for the Jefferson County Court System.

Following graduation from law school, Tom Young worked with a Plaintiff’s firm focusing on personal injury and later as a general practitioner in Birmingham, Alabama. He has also served as a city prosecutor, Special Referee in Family Court, Special District Court Judge, Municipal Court Judge and as special Probate Judge for Tallapoosa County.

Tom Young ran for the Circuit Court Bench in 2000 and served 18 years in the Fifth Judicial Circuit which consists of Tallapoosa, Chambers, Randolph and Macon counties. As Judge, he presided over thousands of civil, criminal and domestic cases, both jury and non-jury. From January 2013 until January 2016, he served as Presiding Judge for the Fifth Judicial Circuit. Young retired in January of 2019 and joined the Morris Haynes firm where he handles personal injury, products liability and other civil cases, as well as criminal and domestic relations matters. He, additionally, has a very active mediation practice that covers all Counties in the State of Alabama.

Tom Young has been appointed by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court to serve on the Alabama Pattern Jury Instruction Committee, the Weighted Caseload Committee and the Alabama Chemical Testing Training and Equipment Trust Fund Advisory Board. He has also completed the Managing Capital Cases Program sponsored by the National Judicial College. To date, Tom Young has received approximately 400 additional hours of special judicial training through the Administrative Office of Courts Continuing Legal Education Program and completed the Basic Mediation Training course.

He is married to Pam Vardaman Young and has two children, Michael and Kristen. The Youngs attend First United Methodist Church of Alexander City, Alabama.

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ALABAMA CAR ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS

Over $1 Billion Recovered for Accident Victims in Alabama

If you or someone you love was recently involved in an automobile accident, and you believe someone else was at fault, you could be entitled to compensation.

By filing an auto accident claim, you can receive monetary recovery for your losses, including:

Medical bills

Lost wages

Vehicle repair costs

Pain and suffering

At Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law, our Alabama car accident lawyers understand just how challenging it can be to get back on your feet after a serious crash. We believe that negligent and careless motorists should be held accountable, and our auto accident attorneys are prepared to fight for the maximum recovery you deserve. With over 30 years of experience and more than $1 billion recovered for our clients, we are well-versed in all types of auto accident claims.

Learn how our Alabama car accident attorneys at Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law can help you after your car wreck. Call (205) 324-4008 or contact us online for a free consultation at our Alexander City or Birmingham offices. Hablamos español.

How We Can Help Maximize Your Compensation

When you’ve been involved in a car accident, it’s important to have skilled legal representation on your side to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. At Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law, our Alabama car accident attorneys have over 250 years of combined experience helping clients navigate the complexities of car accident claims.

Our Alabama car wreck lawyers are here to help you:

Maximize your compensation: Our team will thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Prove fault: We have extensive knowledge of Alabama laws and regulations regarding car accidents. We will work diligently to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the accident scene to establish fault and hold the responsible party accountable.

Navigate complex legal processes: Filing a car accident lawsuit can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies and legal procedures. Our attorneys will guide you through every step of the process, handle all paperwork and deadlines, and represent your best interests in court if necessary.

Protect your rights: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. With our experienced attorneys by your side, you can rest assured that your rights will be protected, and we will fight aggressively to ensure you are treated fairly throughout the entire process.

Don’t settle for less than you deserve. Contact Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law to schedule a free consultation with our knowledgeable car accident lawyers in Alabama and put our expertise to work for you.

Is Alabama a No-Fault State?

No, Alabama is not a no-fault insurance state.

While some states follow a no-fault car insurance system, Alabama is not one of them. In some states, accident victims can recover compensation via their own auto insurance policies after a crash, regardless of fault. Instead, Alabama follows a traditional fault-based (or “tort”) system when it comes to auto insurance and car accidents.

This means that most people who are involved in car accidents in Alabama must file claims against the at-fault driver’s auto insurance company to be compensated for their losses. This, in turn, involves proving that the other person was at fault.

What If the Other Driver Is Uninsured?

If the other motorist does not have auto insurance, or if they flee the scene of the accident, you may be able to collect compensation from your own insurance providers if you have elected to include uninsured motorist (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage on your policy. Our car accident lawyers can help you understand your options.

How to Prove Fault for Your Car Accident

Because Alabama follows a fault-based system when it comes to car accidents and insurance claims, it is important that you prove the other party’s fault after a collision. Typically, this involves looking into the cause of the crash and establishing that the collision would most likely not have occurred had the other person or party not acted negligently.

What If the Insurance Company Is Trying to Blame Me?

Alabama is one of the few states to follow a contributory negligence rule. Under this rule, an injured motorist cannot recover any compensation if they are found to have any degree of fault in causing the accident.

In other words, if the insurance adjuster or court finds you even one percent to blame for the crash, you cannot file a personal injury claim and will not be able to recover anything for your damages. Because of this strict rule, it is extremely important that you work with an experienced and knowledgeable car accident attorney in Alabama.

Insurance companies often try to deny claims on the basis of contributory negligence. Our Alabama car accident lawyers know how to fight back against unfair insurance adjuster tactics, including attempts to unjustly assign you blame. We are here to stand up for you and protect your right to a fair recovery.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Alabama

Some common causes of car accidents that can be attributed to negligence include:

Distracted driving, including texting while driving

Speeding/driving too fast for conditions

Aggressive or reckless driving and road rage

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Making unsafe or unlawful turns

Failing to yield the right of way

Running red lights or stop signs

Merging or passing unsafely or illegally

Driving while fatigued/falling asleep at the wheel

Accidents may also be caused by third-party factors, such as:

Defective vehicles

Defective auto parts

Dangerous roadways

In some instances, it may be appropriate to file a product liability claim against a liable manufacturer in addition to or in place of a standard car accident claim.

Types of Auto Accident Claims We Handle

At Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law, we assist individuals who have been involved in all types of auto accidents.

We handle car accident cases involving:

Multiple vehicles

Large trucks and commercial vehicles

Motorcycles

Pedestrians or bicyclists

Rear-end collisions

Head-on collisions

Side-impact (T-bone) collisions

Intersection accidents

Highway accidents

Collisions in construction/work zones

Hit-and-runs

Vehicle rollovers

Catastrophic bodily injury

Death

Regardless of the severity of the crash or the extent of your injuries and damages, our team is here to help you fight for the justice you deserve.

Can I Afford to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?

When it comes to hiring a car accident lawyer, one of the primary considerations is cost. At Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law, our auto accident lawyers work on a contingency basis. This means that we don’t get paid unless we win your case.

If we are able to recover compensation on your behalf, our fee will be a percentage of the settlement amount. During your initial consultation, we can explain all the costs involved, as well as the potential value of your case. Investing in the right legal counsel can help you navigate the complex legal process and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Put 250+ Years of Experience on Your Side

Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law is known for our aggressive approach to litigation, as well as our commitment to our clients. To date, we have recovered more than $1 billion in compensation, including numerous million- and multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts. Our Alabama auto accident attorneys are here to provide you with compassionate, personalized legal representation and aggressive advocacy throughout the legal process.

Injured in a car wreck? Give our Alabama car accident attorneys a call at (205) 324-4008 or submit an online case evaluation form to schedule your free consultation.

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Five Essential Facts About the Troubled Teen Industry

1. The Troubled Teen Industry Lacks Oversight

The troubled teen industry encompasses a variety of programs, including boot camps, therapeutic boarding schools, and wilderness therapy. Unfortunately, many of these facilities operate with little to no oversight. This lack of regulation often leads to unsafe conditions, inadequate staff training, and, in some cases, outright abuse.

At Morris Haynes, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact this lack of accountability can have on families. If your child has suffered harm in one of these programs, our attorneys can help you pursue justice and hold these facilities accountable for their negligence.

2. Abusive Practices Are Alarmingly Common

Numerous reports have surfaced about abusive practices within the troubled teen industry, including physical restraint, forced isolation, and verbal abuse. These methods are not only harmful but also counterproductive to the goal of helping troubled teens. Tragically, some teens have suffered serious injuries or even death due to such practices.

If your child has been subjected to abuse or neglect at a facility, Morris Haynes can provide the legal support needed to investigate the situation and file claims against those responsible. We are committed to ensuring that your family receives the compensation and closure you deserve.

3. Many Families Are Misled by Marketing                     

The troubled teen industry often markets itself as a life-changing solution, promising to transform rebellious teens into well-adjusted individuals. These promises are often accompanied by glossy brochures and testimonials, masking the harsh realities of what occurs behind closed doors.

Parents who were misled by such marketing tactics may have legal recourse. Our team at Morris Haynes has extensive experience handling cases involving deceptive practices, and we can help you build a strong case against dishonest facilities.

4. Teens Often Leave Programs Worse Off

Rather than providing healing and support, many troubled teen programs leave participants with lasting trauma. Former attendees frequently report symptoms of PTSD, strained family relationships, and even a loss of self-identity. Studies and surveys have shown that the majority of teens do not benefit from these programs, and in many cases, their conditions worsen.

If your child has experienced long-term harm as a result of their time in a troubled teen program, Morris Haynes can help you explore legal options. We are dedicated to holding these institutions accountable for the damage they cause and to securing compensation for affected families.

5. Legal Action Can Drive Change

While the troubled teen industry has long operated in the shadows, increased awareness and legal action have begun to expose its flaws. Filing a claim against negligent or abusive facilities not only helps families seek justice but also puts pressure on the industry to adopt safer practices and regulations.

At Morris Haynes, we understand the power of litigation to bring about systemic change. Our attorneys have decades of experience in personal injury and negligence cases, and we are committed to using our skills to protect vulnerable teens and their families.

How Morris Haynes Can Help Your Family

At Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law, we are passionate about standing up for families affected by the troubled teen industry. With over 30 years of experience and a track record of securing justice for our clients, we have the resources and expertise needed to take on these challenging cases.

If your child has been harmed by a troubled teen program, we can:

Conduct a thorough investigation into the facility’s practices.

Hold responsible parties accountable for abuse or neglect.

Pursue compensation for medical bills, emotional distress, and other damages.

Advocate for systemic change to protect other families.

Get In Touch With Our Legal Experts Today

If you suspect your child has been mistreated in a troubled teen program, don’t wait to seek legal help. The attorneys at Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law are here to guide you through this difficult time and fight for your family’s rights.

Call us today at (205) 324-4008 or visit our website at Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law to schedule a free consultation. Together, we can hold these facilities accountable and work toward a safer future for all teens.

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ALABAMA TROUBLED TEEN INDUSTRY ATTORNEYS

Lawsuits for Abuse in Youth Behavioral Modification Centers

Did you send your rebellious teenager to a behavioral correction facility? Were you shocked to find that your child was not learning life skills and discipline but instead was being subjected to painful abuse and neglect? You are not alone. With every year that passes, the number of troubling reports of abuse within the troubled teen industry increases nationwide.

At Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law, we are here to stand up for abused teens and their parents who were misled by the institutions that promised to help them both. Our Alabama troubled teen industry abuse lawyers are backed by more than 250 years of combined legal experience and vast resources, allowing us to handle cases against even the state’s largest teen behavioral correction centers and corporations. If you sent your teenage child to a behavioral institution and they were abused, then please let us represent your family during this difficult time.

What is the Troubled Teen Industry in Alabama?

Teenagers will always have rebellious phases, but some can get into much more trouble than others. Teenagers who abuse drugs and alcohol may need additional attention and specialized counseling. The same is true of teenagers who intentionally engage in risky activities like enacting crimes, completing dangerous stunts, or engaging in unsafe sexual behaviors. Parents who struggle to connect with their teenage children and explain to them why their decisions are not safe or acceptable may turn to the troubled teen industry for help.

The troubled teen industry is comprised of different businesses and centers, such as:

Boarding schools

Juvenile boot camps

Behavioral modification centers

Emotional growth camps

Boarding a teenager at a specialized school, camp, or facility to learn corrective behaviors and engage in behavioral therapies is not inherently an issue, which is why so many parents send their children to such centers and programs each year. Problems arise, however, when these centers and camps do not provide adequate care and put the teenagers there at risk of abuse and neglect. The problems are amplified when considering that an abused or neglected teenager is all the more likely to lash out and develop problematic behaviors.

Abuse & Neglect at a Teen Behavioral Correction Facility

There is no such thing as an acceptable form of abuse or neglect at a teen behavioral correction center. Even the slightest form of neglect is inexcusable and could have serious repercussions that wear down a teenager’s self-esteem and happiness.

Abuse and neglect at teen behavioral correction facilities can vary, including:

Not enough staff at a time to properly supervise the teenage residents.

Providing teenage residents with insufficient nutrition and hydration.

Forcing the teenage residents to live in dirty, unhygienic conditions.

Failing to protect teenage residents from bullying from other residents.

Isolating teenage residents and not letting them talk to their parents.

Intentionally assaulting or verbally abusing teenage residents.

Failing to provide proper medical care after a teenage resident is injured.

Allowing teenage residents to engage in unsafe behaviors like smoking or drinking.

Making teenage residents use medication to sedate or control them.

Using physical restraints when not needed or in a way that causes injury.

Signs of Abuse in Teenagers

The warning signs of abuse in a troubled teen center might not be obvious at first. Teenagers who are abused or neglected by staff members may grow to distrust all adults, so they won’t want to tell their parents that something is wrong. You will need to stay attentive for signs that something is wrong when you check in with your teenage child. If you aren’t allowed to check in with them or the staff makes it difficult to talk to them, then that could be the first sign that the center is neglectful or abusive.

Common signs of abuse or neglect in the troubled teen industry are:

Uncharacteristic mood swings or behavior changes

Unexplained physical injuries like cuts and bruises

Suicidal ideation

Dramatic weight loss or weight gain

Disinterest in previously enjoyed activities

Fear around another resident or a staff member

If you are worried that your teenager is being abused or neglected at a behavioral correction center or school that was supposed to help them, then please call(205) 324-4008 to tell our attorneys about what is going on. If you fear that your child could be in immediate danger of physical abuse, then please call the local authorities first.

Get Legal Help from Compassionate Attorneys

Our Alabama troubled teen industry attorneys understand the hardships you and your family are going through after finding out that a behavioral therapy facility for your teenager hurt them instead of helping them. We’ve teamed up with several other prominent law firms in Alabama to create a strong team of attorneys and trial lawyers who are all dedicated to protecting the rights of at-risk youths. We are here to help you understand your legal options and represent you through all steps of the claims process. While we get to work on your case and fight for full compensation and justice, you can focus on healing your family and moving toward a brighter future together.

Call (205) 324-4008 to schedule an initial consultation with Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law.

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Legal Options For When I get Hit By A Car and They Drive Off

waiting for law enforcement. In Alabama, leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense, punishable by fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment. Unfortunately, hit-and-run cases remain common across the state, particularly in densely populated areas like Birmingham and Mobile.

Nearly 700,000 hit-and-run crashes occur annually in the United States, a troubling statistic that reflects the frequency of these incidents. You can learn more about these cases and their impact from AAA’s hit-and-run data.

Common Reasons Drivers Flee the Scene

While leaving the scene of an accident is illegal, drivers often flee for the following reasons:

Driving Without Insurance: Alabama has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the country, which contributes significantly to hit-and-run cases. Explore how Alabama handles uninsured drivers to understand the legal challenges (Insurance Information Institute).

Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Intoxicated drivers may flee to avoid DUI charges.

Fear of Consequences: Drivers with expired licenses, outstanding warrants, or other legal issues may panic and leave the scene.

Emotional Responses: Some drivers flee out of fear or shock, not fully realizing the consequences of their actions.

Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident

If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, follow these steps to protect yourself and strengthen your case:

1. Prioritize Safety

Move to a safe location and assess injuries. Call for medical assistance if needed.

2. Report the Incident to Law Enforcement

A police report is critical for documenting the hit-and-run and may aid in identifying the driver. Provide details about the fleeing vehicle, such as its make, model, color, and any part of its license plate.

3. Gather Evidence

Take photos of the accident scene, your vehicle’s damage, and any visible injuries. Look for traffic cameras or nearby businesses that may have captured footage. Witness statements can also be crucial.

4. Notify Your Insurance Company

If you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, you can file a claim for damages related to the hit-and-run. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.

5. Consult an Attorney

A hit-and-run case can be legally complex. An experienced attorney can help you navigate insurance claims, pursue compensation, and hold the responsible party accountable if they are identified.

Your Legal Options After a Hit-and-Run

Even if the at-fault driver is not found, you may still have recourse:

1. Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Alabama law requires insurance companies to offer uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which can compensate you for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Check out how uninsured motorist coverage works in Alabama to better understand your rights (Alabama Insurance Department).

2. Identifying the Driver

If law enforcement locates the at-fault driver, you can file a personal injury claim to recover damages for:

Medical costs.

Property damage.

Lost wages.

Pain and suffering.

Punitive damages may also be available in cases of gross negligence, such as a DUI-related hit-and-run.

Challenges in Hit-and-Run Cases

Hit-and-run cases can be challenging due to:

Difficulty Identifying the Driver: Without clear evidence, tracking down the driver can be difficult.

Insurance Limitations: Even with UM coverage, insurance companies may try to minimize your payout.

Contributory Negligence Rule: Alabama’s strict contributory negligence laws mean that if you’re found even 1% at fault, you may not be able to recover damages.

These hurdles make it essential to have an experienced attorney advocating for you.

How Morris Haynes Can Help

At Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law, we are dedicated to helping hit-and-run victims recover the compensation they deserve. Here’s how we can support you:

1. Investigating the Accident

Our team works closely with law enforcement, gathers evidence, and reviews surveillance footage to identify the responsible driver.

2. Negotiating with Insurance Companies

We handle all communications with your insurance provider to ensure you receive fair compensation under your UM coverage.

3. Pursuing Legal Action

If the fleeing driver is identified, we’ll file a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.

4. Personalized Support

We understand the emotional toll of hit-and-run accidents and provide compassionate, personalized guidance throughout your case.

Seek Justice with Morris Haynes

A hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling powerless, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law, we fight for the rights of accident victims and work tirelessly to secure the compensation they need to rebuild their lives.

Call us today at (205) 324-4008 or visit our website to schedule a free consultation. Let us guide you toward justice and recovery.