Protecting Student Rights In Education Institutional Sexual Assault Cases

Pursuing an education in the United States is a privilege, as well as, a right. Not only do we prioritize it but also, we spend more time in the classroom than any other country. It goes without saying that what happens in the classroom and on campus is significant in the lives of both teachers and students alike. Additionally, the United States has several regulations regarding the quality of education, the environment of learning and the conduct between educational staff and their students. 

Unfortunately, regulations alone are not enough to prevent sexual assault on campuses, or sexual misconduct between teachers and students. Although institutional sexual assault is a major crime, it’s rapidly becoming an increasing issue on campuses across the country. These policies and regulations are not enough. Victims need to know their rights and hold individual perpetrators and institutions criminally liable. 

Educational institutions are legally bound to keep their students safe. If you’ve been sexually abused by an educational staff memeber or fellow student while on campus, you have the right to justice and compensation. All liable parties should be held responsible and punished to prevent future victims. 

Defining Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is not just rape, it’s also any act of physical invasion to your body. These harmful acts often result in injury, as well as emotional and psychological trauma. Other examples of sexual assault include:

• Inappropriate touching or groping

• Forcing someone to perform or witness sexual acts

• Attempted rape 

• Penetration of any kind including with foreign objects 

In educational settings this can become even more confusing for young and aspiring students to navigate because teachers and staff often employ coercion to promise good grades, scholarships, placement, etc. 

Examples of institutional negligence in handling sexual assault cases are as follows: 

• The investigation was delayed or dragged on 

• The school ignored or dismissed you

• They tried to get you to drop the case

• Retaliation 

• Not disclosing your rights as a victim 

 If any of the above happened to you– if your school dismissed you and did nothing to make you feel safer, or if your school or teachers retaliated by making things worse for you after reporting what happened, you can take legal action. 

Why You Need An Experienced Education Institutional Sexual Assault Attorney

While sexual assault on school campuses is illegal and victims have rights according to Title IX, the laws specifically state that schools are not required to involve police or other legal authorities and claims are not connected to the criminal justice system. Title IX is simply a code of conduct that regulates on campus activities. 

If you’re the victim of sexual assault or abuse and the crime happened on a school campus, you are entitled to protection, justice, retribution and compensation. It’s imperative to know, however,  that criminal charges will only be filed if you contact an attorney. Don’t let your statute of limitations run out, get the justice you deserve today. Contact a trustworthy and experienced education institutional sexual assault lawyer immediately.