While public outrage grows over a school shooting in Uvalde, Texas that left 21 dead last week, the victims' relatives may never get their day in court against police, school authorities and gun-makers who enjoy special legal immunity that may protect them from being sued, according to attorneys.
As in past school shootings, families of the 19 students and two teachers will likely find that any lawsuits will run into legal challenges that do not exist for shootings in the workplace or other private property.
"I see Uvalde as an example of gaps in the law," said Erik Knockaert, a Texas lawyer who has represented victims of mass shootings. He is not representing Uvalde families.