Trey’s Law is a major milestone in Texas, offering real hope and protection for survivors of sexual assault. This new law strengthens legal rights and opens clearer paths for survivors to seek justice. It removes barriers that have often kept survivors from holding institutions accountable. Now, survivors can take civil action against those who failed to prevent abuse or created unsafe environments, sending a clear message that negligence and silence will no longer be tolerated in Texas.
For survivors, Trey’s Law isn’t just legislation, it’s a lifeline. It gives survivors greater access to the courtroom, the ability to demand accountability, and the chance to spark systemic change. If you or someone you care about has experienced sexual assault, the legal system now has stronger tools to support you.
Aldous Law’s nationally recognized team is dedicated to helping survivors navigate these changes. We listen closely to every client, build strategies based on your story, and advocate tirelessly from start to finish. For honest guidance about your legal options under Trey’s Law, reach out to Aldous Law to schedule a free consultation.
What is Trey’s Law?
Trey’s Law, officially Senate Bill 835, was created to free survivors from the legal silence often enforced through nondisclosure agreements (NDAs). These agreements previously forced victims to choose between compensation and their voice. Trey’s Law changes that, banning NDAs in settlements related to sexual abuse. Importantly, the law also applies retroactively, giving survivors who were previously silenced the chance to speak out. Both adults and children are protected under this law.
Key Points of Trey’s Law:
- Bans NDAs: Any agreement that stops a survivor from talking about sexual abuse is now void and unenforceable.
- Retroactive Protection: Past NDAs can be challenged, empowering survivors who were previously silenced.
- Broad Definition of Abuse: Covers indecency with a child, sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, sexual performance by a child, human trafficking, and compelling prostitution.
- Protects Adults and Children: Every victim is covered, regardless of age.
- Financial Privacy Allowed: Settlements can keep financial details private, but survivors cannot be silenced about the abuse itself.
Aldous Law is here to help survivors understand how Trey’s Law may apply to their situation, offering clear guidance and advocacy every step of the way.
How Trey’s Law Stops NDAs From Silencing Survivors
Before Trey’s Law, organizations and individuals could use NDAs to hide abuse and avoid accountability. Survivors were often forced into silence in exchange for settlements. Trey’s Law ends that practice. Now, survivors cannot be legally prevented from sharing their story, even after a settlement. This is a big step toward transparency, justice, and holding abusers and negligent institutions accountable in Texas.
Retroactive Application: Voiding Old NDAs
One of the most powerful parts of Trey’s Law is its retroactive effect. NDAs from old cases are presumed void unless a court rules otherwise. This means survivors who felt trapped by prior settlements can now reclaim their right to speak out, no matter when the NDA was signed. The law covers a wide range of abuse cases, including sexual assault, aggravated assault, trafficking, and more, and protects both adults and children.
By removing these restrictive agreements, Trey’s Law restores autonomy to survivors. It allows them to tell their story, pursue healing, and push for justice, turning personal pain into action that can protect others.
Why Trey’s Law Matters for Survivors
Trey’s Law is about more than legal rights, it’s about healing, empowerment, and justice. Survivors who have carried the burden of silence now have the right to speak openly and hold those responsible accountable.
How Trey’s Law Supports Healing and Justice:
- Frees survivors to share their stories without fear of legal consequences.
- Breaks down barriers to mental health support and community healing.
- Helps uncover patterns of institutional silence and negligence.
- Increases public awareness, turning individual experiences into systemic change.
- Deters future abuse by removing the tools used to hide misconduct.
Aldous Law Weighs In: What This Law Means for Survivors
Attorney Eleanor Aldous was recently asked about Trey’s Law in the Dallas Morning News. She said:
“This is such a weight lifted,” regarding survivors.
Her words highlight the relief and empowerment survivors feel under this new law - a sense that they no longer have to choose silence over justice.
How Aldous Law Can Help Survivors
At Aldous Law, we guide survivors every step of the way, especially as they navigate the opportunities Trey’s Law provides. Our team can help:
- Explain how Trey’s Law applies to your situation
- Review and challenge NDAs that may silence your story
- Collect evidence and witness statements to strengthen your claim
- Represent you in negotiations, settlements, and court proceedings
- Ensure institutions and individuals are held accountable
Take the First Step Toward Reclaiming Your Voice
If Trey’s Law might affect your case, Aldous Law encourages you to give our team a call to explore your options. Our experienced trial team has a track record of life-changing results and landmark verdicts. We’re ready to fight for your rights and help you reclaim your voice. Contact Aldous Law today to start your journey toward justice and healing.
