Survivors of sexual assault carry with them deeply traumatic experiences, often feeling isolated in their quest for justice. If you have experienced sexual violence at the University of Texas at Austin, Estey & Bomberger, LLP can stand by your side.
Our firm specializes in confronting both perpetrators and the institutions that protect them, holding them accountable for the damages suffered by the survivor. By combining legal expertise with a profound understanding of the survivors’ journey, we will fight to ensure that your story is heard and that you recover the compensation that you deserve.
Why Choose the Attorneys at Estey & Bomberger, LLP?
- Estey & Bomberger, LLP has advocated for the rights of sexual assault victims for years. We take a compassionate, client-centered approach to every case, and we are dedicated to protecting and guiding you through every step.
- Our attorneys are committed to achieving maximum results for our clients. We have recovered over $500 million and counting in settlements and jury verdicts, and we will not rest until you recover a fair settlement.
- We believe that every person deserves access to quality legal representation. We take all cases on a contingency fee basis, which means that if we do not recover a settlement for you, you will not be charged any legal fees.
Your Legal Rights and Options as a Survivor of Sexual Assault at UT Austin
The legal system distinguishes between civil and criminal actions in cases of sexual assault. Criminal actions are initiated by the state to prosecute the perpetrator, which can result in penalties like imprisonment or fines if the accused is found guilty. Civil actions, however, are lawsuits filed by the survivor against the perpetrator or other liable parties, seeking monetary compensation for the harm suffered.
However, many criminal sexual assault cases do not result in any penalties, nor do they provide monetary assistance to survivors. Through a sexual assault lawsuit, survivors can seek damages for the trauma that they experienced. The lawsuit can help address many forms of physical, financial, and emotional losses, such as:
- Past and future medical expenses associated with the assault
- Costs for therapy and counseling required due to the assault
- Lost wages or loss of future earnings if the assault impacted the survivor’s ability to work
- Pain and suffering damages, which encompasses a range of physical and emotional harm suffered due to the assault
- Punitive damages, which are intended to punish the assailant for especially egregious actions
A Sexual Assault Attorney Can Provide the Support and Guidance You Deserve
Navigating the aftermath of sexual assault can be overwhelming. An attorney from Estey & Bomberger, LLP can offer vital support and guidance, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the legal process. Our attorneys can provide several benefits throughout the litigation process, such as the following:
- Expert Legal Advice: Our attorneys possess deep knowledge of sexual assault laws and can provide comprehensive legal advice tailored to your case.
- Compassionate Support: We understand the sensitivity required in these cases and will treat you with the dignity and compassion that you deserve, ensuring you feel heard and respected.
- Maximizing Compensation: Our attorneys are skilled in accurately assessing the full impact of your trauma to maximize the compensation you can recover, helping you recover a full and fair settlement.
- Confidentiality and Discretion: We prioritize your privacy and handle every aspect of your case with the utmost confidentiality and discretion.
The Statute of Limitations for Sexual Assault Lawsuits in Texas
In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a sexual assault lawsuit is generally five years from the date of the assault. However, this period can vary based on specific facts of the case, such as the age of the survivor at the time of the assault or when the harm was discovered. Delaying legal action can jeopardize your ability to seek justice and obtain compensation, so make sure to contact an attorney as soon as possible.
Sec. 16.0045. LIMITATIONS PERIOD FOR CLAIMS ARISING FROM CERTAIN OFFENSES
(b) A person must bring suit for personal injury not later than five years after the day the cause of action accrues if the injury arises as a result of conduct that violates:
(1) Section 22.011(a)(1), Penal Code (sexual assault);
(2) Section 22.021(a)(1)(A), Penal Code (aggravated sexual assault).
Steps to Take After Experiencing Sexual Assault on a College Campus
If you have been sexually assaulted at the University of Texas at Austin, taking certain steps can significantly impact your well-being and future outcomes. These steps are designed to protect your safety, preserve evidence, and prepare for any legal action you might choose to take:
- Seek a Safe Environment: Your immediate safety is a top priority. If possible, find a secure environment away from the assailant. Call 911 if you are in immediate danger or need emergency medical care. Contact a friend, family member, or trusted loved one for support.
- Get Medical Attention: Even if you do not have visible injuries, it’s important to receive medical care. Medical documentation is vital for health reasons and can be crucial evidence in legal proceedings. You can obtain a physical sexual assault exam at certain hospitals.
- Preserve Evidence: Try not to bathe, change clothes, or alter the scene of the assault, as this can preserve valuable evidence. Every piece of evidence can be critical in building a case.
- Report the Assault: While the decision to report is yours, notifying law enforcement can set in motion the process of holding the assailant accountable. Police can also help in obtaining protective orders.
- Consult with an Attorney: A sexual assault attorney can provide legal advice and guide you through the options available to you. They can help you understand your rights and the steps involved in seeking justice, so schedule a free consultation as soon as you can.
Contact a Sexual Assault Attorney from Estey & Bomberger, LLP Today
Survivors of sexual assault at the University of Texas at Austin have a right to seek justice and hold perpetrators accountable. At Estey & Bomberger, LLP, our team of school system sexual abuse attorneys specialize in advocating for survivors, offering compassionate support and aggressive legal representation.
Our attorneys are dedicated to ensuring your voice is heard. For a confidential consultation, contact us today at (800) 260-7197 and learn how we can help you pursue the closure and compensation you deserve.