After a sexual assault, survivors may not know what to do or where to turn. Even if their assailant faces criminal charges, those do little to help the person affected by their crimes. What can sexual assault survivors do to help with their own recovery?
Survivors of sexual abuse and assault may be entitled to financial compensation through the civil court system in Texas, regardless of the result of a related criminal case (and even in the absence of one). Depending on how the sexual abuse or assault occurred and the unique facts of the case, a survivor may be entitled to various types of compensation after being sexually assaulted.
Types of Damages Recoverable
Civil claims for sexual abuse or assault can seek compensation for the harm a survivor has suffered and may continue to suffer in the future. These damages can include compensation for financial losses, emotional trauma, physical injuries, medical expenses, counseling, lost income, and the effect the abuse has had on daily life, relationships, education, or career.
In some cases, a sexual assault lawsuit may also seek damages from the institution, employer, property owner, or other party that allowed the abuse to happen or failed to respond appropriately. Here’s a closer look at how these claims work in different contexts and what compensation may be available through a sexual assault civil lawsuit:
- In Texas Schools – When sexual abuse or sexual violence occurs in a school setting, recoverable damages may account for the lasting effect on a student’s education, mental health, and sense of safety. A survivor may need compensation for therapy, psychiatric treatment, academic disruption, tutoring, school transfers, or other support made necessary by the abuse. These cases may also involve claims tied to a school’s or district’s negligent hiring, supervision, reporting failures, or failure to act on prior warning signs.
- On Campuses – Abuse or assault at a college or university can affect nearly every part of a survivor’s life, including housing, coursework, social relationships, scholarships, and future plans. Campus sexual assault compensation may address counseling costs, medical bills, lost educational opportunities, reduced academic performance, and post-traumatic stress disorder caused by the assault. Depending on the facts, these cases may also examine whether the campus failed to provide reasonable security, ignored prior complaints, or mishandled reports of misconduct.
- In Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities – If sexual abuse occurred in a medical setting, it can be especially traumatic because patients rely on healthcare providers while they’re vulnerable, sedated, undressed, or physically unable to protect themselves. Damages may include costs for medical treatment, trauma counseling, follow-up care, and pain and suffering. A civil claim may also examine whether the facility failed to screen, train, monitor, or remove a dangerous employee or provider.
- At Work – Workplace sexual assault or abuse can lead to lost wages, job loss, reduced earning capacity, emotional distress, and damage to a survivor’s professional reputation or career path. Compensation may also cover therapy, medical care, and the broader personal harm caused by the abuse. These claims may involve an employer’s failure to address harassment, protect employees, investigate complaints, or remove someone known to pose a risk.
Reach Out to an Experienced Sexual Assault Lawyer in Houston, TX
The sexual abuse attorneys at Fibich, Leebron, Copeland & Briggs are here to support you through the legal process of seeking the justice and compensation you deserve after sexual assault or abuse. Contact our Houston sexual assault attorneys today to learn more about your legal rights and options during a free initial consultation.
