Los Angeles Campus Sexual Assault Attorney

Advocating for the Rights of Students in Los Angeles & Beyond

Sexual assault is a serious issue on college campuses throughout the country. Many survivors of campus sexual assault feel that they have no recourse. They may worry about their safety and well-being, as well as their ability to finish school. They may also worry that they will not be believed, or that they will be blamed for the assault.

At KMD Law, we are here to help. Our campus sexual assault lawyer protects the rights of students in Los Angeles and throughout the country. We are prepared to help you navigate the legal process to get the justice and financial compensation you deserve.

At KMD Law, we handle cases involving sexual assault and abuse at universities and colleges across Los Angeles. Give us a call today if you have experienced:

• Sexual abuse at UCLA
• Sexual abuse at USC
• Sexual abuse at CalTech
• Sexual abuse at Cal Poly Pomona
• Sexual abuse at CSULB
• Sexual abuse at Cal State LA
• Sexual abuse at Loyola Marymount University
• Sexual abuse at Pepperdine University
• Sexual abuse at Cal State Fullerton
• Sexual abuse at CSUN

For a free, confidential consultation, call (833) 456-3529 or contact us online.

Examples of Sexual Assault at Colleges & Universities

Campus sexual assault can refer to any type of sexual misconduct, harassment, or abuse that was committed against you while you were on a college or university campus.

Whether you were assaulted by another student, a teacher, a coach, an on-campus doctor, or any other type of school employee, you have the right to file a lawsuit against your abuser, as well as the institution who failed to protect you. Let KMD Law help you seek justice.

Sexual assault on college campuses can take many forms, such as:

• Student-on-student sexual assault
• Sexual assault or abuse committed by a teacher
• Sexual assault committed by an on-campus doctor
• Sexual assault committed by a school coach
• Any type of sexual contact without consent
• Inappropriate touching/unwanted sexual touching
• Sexual trauma inflicted by force or violence
• Hazing that involves sexual abuse or assault
• Sexual assault involving a date-rape drug

Who Can I Sue If I Was Sexually Assaulted on a College Campus?

If you were sexually assaulted on a college or university campus, there may be several liable parties, depending on the circumstances of the assault and who may be responsible:

• The assailant: The most obvious party to sue would be the individual who committed the assault. You could pursue legal action against them to seek justice and potentially obtain compensation for the damages you suffered.
• The college or university: In some cases, you might be able to sue the college or university where the assault occurred. This could be on the basis of negligence if the institution failed to provide adequate security measures, failed to respond appropriately to reports of sexual assault, or otherwise created an environment where sexual assaults were more likely to occur.
• Employees of the college or university: Depending on the circumstances, you might also have grounds to sue specific employees of the college or university, such as security personnel, administrators, or staff members who were negligent in their duties related to preventing or responding to sexual assault.
• Third parties: In some situations, there may be third parties who bear some responsibility for the assault. For example, if the assault occurred at an event hosted by a third-party organization on campus, or if the assailant gained access to campus facilities due to the negligence of a third party, you might have grounds to sue those parties as well.

It's essential to consult with a qualified attorney who specializes in sexual assault cases and has experience with litigation against colleges and universities. When you call KMD Law, we can evaluate the specifics of your case and advise you on the best course of action.

Additionally, if you're considering legal action, it's important to be aware of any statutes of limitations that may apply, as there are deadlines for filing sexual assault lawsuits that vary depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the claim. Don't wait to take action.

What to Do If You Have Been Sexually Assaulted

If you are a victim of campus sexual assault, it is important to remember that you are not alone. There are attorneys who can help you understand your rights and pursue justice.

If you have been sexually assaulted on campus, you should:

• Get to a safe place as soon as possible
• Call the police
• Get medical attention
• Preserve evidence, including clothing, sheets, and other objects that may contain DNA
• Document the incident as thoroughly as possible, including writing down the details of the assault and taking pictures of any visible injuries
• Get emotional support from friends, family, or a counselor
• Speak with a college sexual assault lawyer about your rights and legal options

The Difference Between a Criminal Case and a Sexual Assault Lawsuit

A criminal case and a sexual assault lawsuit are distinct legal proceedings with different purposes and processes.

Criminal Sexual Assault Case

In a criminal case, the state prosecutes an individual accused of committing a crime, such as sexual assault. The burden of proof in a criminal case is "beyond a reasonable doubt," meaning the prosecutor must prove the defendant's guilt to the extent that there is no reasonable doubt in the minds of the jurors.

If found guilty, the defendant may face penalties such as imprisonment or fines.

Civil Sexual Assault Lawsuit

In contrast, a sexual assault lawsuit is a civil case brought by the victim against the alleged perpetrator. The purpose is typically to seek compensation for damages suffered as a result of the assault, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

The burden of proof in a civil lawsuit is "preponderance of the evidence," meaning the plaintiff must demonstrate it is more likely than not that the defendant committed the assault.

Title IX: How It Relates to Campus Sexual Assault Cases

Under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, no person in the United States shall be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.

This includes sexual harassment and sexual violence.

Sexual harassment is any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual violence is a type of sexual harassment that is also a crime. All forms of sexual harassment and sexual violence are prohibited by Title IX, whether committed by students, employees, or third parties.

Examples of sexual harassment and sexual violence that are prohibited by Title IX include:

• Sexual assault
• Dating violence
• Domestic violence
• Stalking

Colleges and universities are required to address and remedy hostile educational environments. They are also responsible for taking steps to prevent the harassment from recurring and to correct its effects on the victim and the community.

Under Title IX, schools must:

• Investigate all complaints of sexual harassment and sexual violence
• Take appropriate steps to resolve those complaints
• Take steps to prevent the reoccurrence of sexual harassment and sexual violence
• Remedy the effects of sexual harassment and sexual violence

Those who file a complaint, participate in an investigation, or oppose sexual harassment are protected from retaliation. This includes protection from being disciplined, harassed, or having their grades affected.

Discuss Your Options with KMD Law

If you have been sexually assaulted, our firm can help you understand your rights and your legal options. KMD Law represents students in campus sexual assault cases throughout Los Angeles, California, and the United States. We are committed to providing compassionate, one-on-one legal services.

When you work with us, you can expect to work directly with our campus sexual assault attorney from start to finish. We will take the time to listen to your story, answer your questions, and help you determine the best course of action.

To learn more, call (833) 456-3529 or contact us online.