Campus Sexual Assault: Legal Options for Survivors

After surviving sexual assault on campus, victims are often unsure of how to move forward with what happened to them. The law empowers victims with a way to hold perpetrators accountable. While you focus on recovery and the path to healing, know that there are legal options available for you to get justice against the perpetrator and even the university.

Universities Are Responsible for Protecting Their Students

Universities have a responsibility to protect their students. Congress enacted Title IX in 1972, which is a federal law to prevent sex-based discrimination within universities. As time passed, many court cases have interpreted Title IX as a safeguard for students from sex-based harassment and violence.

To put it simply, Title IX stipulates that schools are required to protect students from sexual violence. This rule applies to all universities that receive federal funding or student financial aid.

Courts Have Held Universities Responsible for Violating Their Students’ Rights

It may seem strange to hold a university accountable for sexual assault, but the truth is that there are several cases where students have sued their university for violating their rights. Title IX is a right entitled to all students. If a university fails to take care of its students and protect them from sexual assault, this allows students to take legal action against them.

How Students Can Hold Universities Accountable for Breaching Their Responsibilities

As a survivor of campus sexual assault, you are entitled to hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions, or lack thereof, and recover financial compensation for the damages you suffered. The law empowers survivors to take action and seek justice for the crimes done against them.

In addition to the perpetrator, you can hold the university accountable for your assault and for any damages. Remember, it is the university’s job to provide a safe and secure campus for their students. Failure to do so is a failure on the survivors who have suffered from a heinous act like sexual assault.

An Attorney Can Hold the Perpetrator Accountable in Court

As a survivor of campus sexual assault, you should prioritize the healing process. While you move forward and recover, an attorney can fight alongside you in your pursuit of justice. The legal process can be difficult to handle, especially for sexual assault cases.

Rather than attempting to handle a complex legal case on your own, it is best to get the help of an experienced and dedicated sexual assault attorney. Get in touch with a lawyer as soon as possible for a free consultation to evaluate your case and get you started on next steps.

Mike

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