Institutional negligence in childhood sexual abuse cases may involve churches, schools, youth organizations, or other institutions that ignored warning signs, failed to report abuse, failed to supervise adults, concealed complaints, or allowed children to remain at risk. Merson Law helps survivors understand their legal options.
Merson Law Associate
Cara Szeles joined Merson Law, PLLC in 2023. She received her law degree from Brooklyn Law School and she holds a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre from the University of Utah. Her creative background has shaped her unique approach to law, fostering strong communication, presentation, and problem-solving skills that enhance her legal practice.
Her scholarly work advocating for anti-discrimination law for the LGBT community in Japan is published in the Virginia Journal of International Law. She also served as an executive board member of the Brooklyn Journal of International Law.
During law school, Ms. Szeles was also a member of Alternative Dispute Resolution Honors Society. She competed and coached in various nationwide interscholastic competitions in the disciplines of negotiation and mediation. She undertook additional responsibilities by joining a committee.
While earning her undergraduate degree, she also spent a year studying abroad at Doshisha University in Kyoto, Japan, where she completed an intensive Japanese language and cultural immersion curriculum. She received a JASSO award: an honors scholarship for international students who excel in their studies at Japanese universities.
Ms. Szeles is proud to work alongside the Merson Law team in their pursuit of justice.

Delayed Disclosure in Childhood Sexual Abuse Cases
Many survivors of childhood sexual abuse do not come forward for decades. This delayed disclosure reflects deep trauma, fear, and institutional pressure, not a lack of credibility. At Merson Law, we represent survivors of institutional abuse. Even if you have never spoken out before or only remember partial details, you are not alone. Your legal options depend on the facts, not the delay.





