Flagstaff sports law attorney Ryan J. Stevens represents athletes and coaches across the United States, protecting their right to compete and to be treated fairly in contract negotiations, in defense of misconduct allegations, and other sports-related legal matters. Mr. Stevens also focuses on defending college athletes against administrative actions, student code violations, and Title IX prosecutions by colleges and universities.
A runner and triathlete, Mr. Stevens has substantial experience defending athletes and coaches against accusations of abuse, anti-doping rule violations, and other misconduct that can threaten your freedom, career, and ability to participate in the sport you love. You may find yourself facing intense scrutiny from the U.S. Center for SafeSport (the “Center”) or one of the USA’s recognized National Governing Bodies (NGBs). Investigations by the Center or an NGB can also involve the police and potential criminal charges. You need a lawyer who can defend administrative claims and serious criminal charges.
You have rights in every legal proceeding, and sports law cases are no exception. As a former felony prosecutor and NCAA athlete, Flagstaff Sports Law Attorney Ryan J. Stevens has the extensive knowledge and expert litigation skills to protect your reputation, rights, and future against damaging sport-related accusations and charges.
Mr. Stevens also represents athletes and coaches in contract disputes and other sports-related legal issues.
"Ryan really cares about athletes' rights. His legal experience and his passion for the sports world make him the ideal choice for athletes and coaches who need serious legal help."
- Diane Nukuri, 3-time Olympian (Track & Field)
The Role the U.S. Center for SafeSport and NGBs Play in Sports Law Cases
Created by the Safe Sport Authorization Act of 2017, the U.S. Center for SafeSport—also known as simply "the Center"—is tasked with prosecuting coaches and athletes in cases involving a wide range of abuse and misconduct, often sexual in nature. Are you being investigated by the Center or your NGB? You need an attorney to protect your rights and advocate for your interests.
If the Center declined to prosecute the case against you, that’s not the end of the story. In these situations, your NGB may pick up the matter and prosecute it internally, often utilizing specific bylaws and procedures (ethics committees and grievance committees) that can sometimes be one-sided and unfair to the accused. You need expert legal counsel to help you overcome these unique challenges and protect your right to participate in your sport as an athlete or coach.
Defending Athletes and Coaches Against Misconduct Accusations and Charges
Because they involve high-stakes administrative proceedings and hearings, sports law cases demand skilled legal representation from an attorney well-versed in sports-related laws and individual NGB bylaws and procedures. For college athletes and students, these policies and procedures may involve college and university student handbooks and Title IX procedures.
Fortunately, you've come to the right place. Mr. Stevens has substantial experience handling matters with the Center and various NGBs. He accepts sports law cases involving:
- Sexual misconduct
- Physical abuse
- Emotional abuse
- Anti-doping violations
- Bullying
- Harassment
- Hazing
- And other sports-related offenses
Misconduct Allegations and Convictions Can Have Devastating Consequences
If you've been accused of abuse or misconduct and the Center, an NGB, or a university is looking into these claims, the seriousness of the situation can't be overstated. In addition to potential criminal penalties, these serious accusations can permanently destroy your career and reputation, suspending or revoking your ability to participate in the sport in question or your membership in the applicable NGB. It can also jeopardize lucrative contracts, bonuses, and other opportunities. There's far too much at stake to go it alone.
Protecting Your Right to Compete
Athletes have a right to compete in major events such as the Olympic Games and World Championship events. Under the Ted Stevens Olympic and Amateur Sports Act of 1978, the U.S. Olympic Committee ("USOC") is authorized to charter an NGB for each major sport. Those NGBs must then establish the rules for selecting the United States Olympic Team and promoting competition in that sport. Mr. Stevens has experience defending athletes who were deprived of their right to compete by their NGB, whether on purpose or in error. Mr. Stevens aggressively fights for athletes who deserve the right to represent their country in major sports events.
Pursuing Damages for Victims of Misconduct and Abuse
Mr. Stevens is proud to advocate for the rights of athletes or coaches who have been the victim of misconduct or abuse. He can help you explore your right to file a claim or lawsuit and pursue injunctive relief or monetary damages. Most importantly, Mr. Stevens has the knowledge, skill, and sensitivity to handle these complex cases with compassion, respect, and discretion.
Request a Consultation With Our Flagstaff Sports Law Attorney
Interested in finding out what Mr. Stevens can do for you and your case? Contact Griffen & Stevens Law Firm, PLLC, to schedule an appointment for a free, no-obligation initial consultation. Don't delay; early representation offers numerous benefits in all sports law matters.