Sexual assault at institutions like Texas A&M University leaves a profound impact on survivors, altering their lives in ways that are often deep and lasting. Survivors may struggle with feelings of isolation, anxiety, and the daunting task of navigating the justice system, all while trying to continue their education and maintain normalcy in their lives.
If you were assaulted at Texas A&M University, you have the right to file a civil lawsuit against those responsible—and the attorneys at Estey & Bomberger, LLP can help you secure the justice that you deserve. With over 20 years of experience, our firm is committed to helping you find your voice and recover a fair settlement for your losses. We encourage you to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today and learn how we can help.
Why Choose the Sexual Assault Attorneys at Estey & Bomberger, LLP
- Our attorneys have represented hundreds of sexual assault survivors in complex civil litigation, recovering millions of dollars in settlements and jury verdicts. We will advocate aggressively for your right to justice.
- Sexual assault is a serious and life-altering crime that can drastically affect a person’s life. We understand the impact of these events and are committed to handling your case with care and compassion.
- We offer our services to Texas A&M University survivors on a no-win, no-fee basis. If we do not recover compensation on your behalf, you will not be charged legal fees.
Sexual Assault Is Pervasive on College Campuses
Sexual assault on college campuses remains a critical issue, affecting a significant portion of the student body across the United States. According to the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), 13% of all undergraduate and graduate students in the United States have experienced rape or sexual assault. Women in college-aged 18 to 24 are three times more likely to experience sexual assault than the national average for all women.
These crimes, which range from unwanted sexual contact to more severe forms of assault, often go underreported due to various factors, including fear of not being believed, lack of understanding about what constitutes sexual assault, and the perceived social repercussions of reporting. In many cases, the assailants are fellow students, but faculty and staff members have also been implicated.
College environments can inadvertently create complex dynamics that challenge the reporting and addressing of sexual assault. Factors such as the influence of fraternities, sports teams, and other powerful campus groups can contribute to a culture where sexual assault is not adequately addressed. Furthermore, universities have sometimes been criticized for their handling of assault cases, often accused of protecting their reputation over ensuring justice and safety for survivors. This has led to a growing demand for more transparent and survivor-centric approaches to handling these cases.
Texas’s Sexual Assault Laws
Victims of sexual assault at Texas A&M University have the right to seek justice. For many, the first option that comes to mind is the criminal justice system. Sexual assault is a serious crime in Texas, punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Unfortunately, the majority of perpetrators are not convicted for their crimes, leaving survivors without a sense of justice or closure.
A personal injury lawsuit differs from criminal proceedings in that it focuses on recovering damages for the survivor rather than prosecuting the perpetrator. The burden of proof is lower in a civil case, making it a viable option even when criminal charges are not filed or result in acquittal. At the conclusion of a personal injury lawsuit, you can recover compensation to pay for damages such as emotional distress, psychiatric care, counseling services, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
How an Attorney Can Help You Seek Justice
In the aftermath of a sexual assault, survivors may feel overwhelmed by the prospect of seeking justice. At Estey & Bomberger, LLP, our Texas A&M University sexual assault attorneys can provide invaluable assistance during this difficult time.
Our firm is dedicated to pursuing justice for victims of sexual assault and can support your case in several ways, such as:
- Guiding You Through Legal Proceedings: Our attorneys can guide you through the complexities of the legal system, explaining your rights and the processes involved in both criminal and civil proceedings.
- Representing You in Personal Injury Lawsuits: We specialize in representing survivors in personal injury lawsuits, focusing on obtaining compensation for the physical, emotional, and psychological harm you’ve endured.
- Gathering and Presenting Evidence: We diligently collect and present evidence to support your case, including medical records, witness testimonies, and other pertinent documentation.
- Negotiating Settlements: Our attorneys are skilled in negotiating with defendants to secure fair settlements that reflect the true extent of your damages.
- Protecting Your Privacy: We handle your case with the utmost confidentiality, safeguarding your privacy and dignity throughout the legal process.
- Maximizing Your Compensation: Our goal is to maximize the compensation you receive, helping you cover medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
How Long Do You Have to File a Sexual Assault Lawsuit?
The timeline for filing a sexual assault lawsuit in Texas is governed by the statute of limitations, which sets the deadline for initiating legal proceedings. For child victims of sexual assault, the state has extended the statute of limitations to 30 years from the victim’s 18th birthday. This change, made in 2019, acknowledges the complexities and challenges that child survivors face in coming forward and seeking justice. For adult victims, the statute of limitations is five years from the date of the assault.
If you do not file a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires, the court will most likely dismiss your case and prevent you from recovering compensation. It’s advisable to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case and ensure that your legal rights are preserved within these time constraints.
Contact a Texas A&M University Sexual Assault Attorney Today
At Estey & Bomberger, LLP, we recognize the immense challenges faced by survivors of sexual assault at Texas A&M University. Our specialized school system sexual assault attorneys can offer the legal guidance and support that you need to seek justice. We approach each case with sensitivity, professionalism, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome.
Don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Contact us today at (800) 260-7197 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a Texas A&M University sexual assault attorney.