CTE and repeated head injuries: get the effects documented.
Headaches, memory problems and mood changes can start days later. We make sure they are documented and counted. Free case review, no fee unless we win, and a real person answers 24/7.
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A brain injury claim covers everything the injury took from you, now and later.
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Deadlines vary. Act early.
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More about CTE
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Updated October 2026. General information, not legal advice about your case.
CTE: what to know
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is a brain disease linked to repeated blows to the head over years, such as in contact sports or military service. According to the Mayo Clinic, there is no way today to confirm CTE in a living person. A definite diagnosis is made only by examining the brain after death.
In 2021, researchers published criteria for "traumatic encephalopathy syndrome," a set of symptoms that doctors can use to suspect CTE during life. Symptoms can include problems with memory and thinking, mood changes such as depression or irritability, changes in behavior, and problems with balance.
CTE and a single injury are different
A single concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI) from a crash or fall is not CTE. A TBI can still cause serious, lasting harm, and it can be diagnosed and treated during life. If you or a family member had a head injury in an accident, see brain injuries.
When can there be a legal claim?
We will be honest with you: CTE claims are hard. They depend on the facts, on medical and scientific evidence, and on who knew about the risks and when. A claim may be possible, for example, when:
- An organization knew of the risk of repeated head impacts and hid it or failed to act
- A helmet or other protective equipment was defective
- A family has a CTE diagnosis after death and questions about what caused it
Records matter
Keep records of every head injury: medical visits, imaging, team or unit records, and notes about changes in memory, mood or behavior. If a family member has died and CTE is suspected, ask about a brain donation for study early, because the examination is the only way to confirm the diagnosis.
What to do now
- See a doctor about new or worse symptoms. Some causes of memory and mood changes can be treated.
- Collect medical, sports and military records of head injuries.
- Write down when the symptoms started and how they changed.
- Call us to talk about the facts. Deadlines vary, so call early. There is no fee or cost unless we recover money for you.
Not sure if you have a case? Call anyway. It's free to ask.
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