If you’ve experienced sexual assault or abuse, we want you to know that the responsibility for what happened lies entirely with the perpetrator. Misconceptions about how someone should respond, what they were wearing, or whether they fought back do not change that fact. Feeling guilt or shame after an assault is common, and freezing or feeling unsure is a natural reaction—not a sign of weakness.
Sexual assault can leave lasting physical and emotional effects. Even if the perpetrator is charged for their crimes, criminal proceedings can’t address the full scope of the harm you’ve suffered. Medical bills and emotional trauma can follow you long after the attack, and you have the right to seek compensation for your losses.
Fibich, Leebron, Copeland & Briggs has represented clients in Houston and across Texas for decades. We pride ourselves on handling complex civil and personal injury cases with skill and compassion—including sexual assault claims. Our board-certified attorneys provide experienced guidance to help survivors pursue compensation after a sexual assault.
We’re committed to standing by your side throughout each step of your case. Contact us for a free consultation and learn more about your options. Hablamos español.
How Our Attorneys Approach Sexual Assault Cases
Litigating a sexual assault case requires experience and attention to detail—and above all, understanding the emotional impact on survivors. Fibich, Leebron, Copeland & Briggs brings decades of experience in complex civil litigation. When you work with us, you can be confident that your case is in capable hands:
- We start by thoroughly investigating every aspect of the assault. This includes gathering evidence and consulting expert witnesses when necessary.
- We determine the strongest legal approach for your unique situation.
- We build your case with a focus on pursuing compensation for everything from medical bills and lost income to emotional suffering and therapy bills.
You’ll work directly with an attorney who knows how to hold the responsible party accountable in a sexual assault civil lawsuit. Every sexual assault case is different, so we adapt our strategies to fit your needs. Our lawyers understand how sensitive these situations are. We make sure your voice is heard and your rights are protected throughout the case.
Attorney Erin K. Copeland is a partner with Fibich, Leebron, Copeland & Briggs. Throughout her career, she has advocated for those who have experienced sexual trauma and sexual violence. She proudly serves on the American Association for Justice Board of Governors, and she has recovered hundreds of millions on behalf of injured victims.
What Is a Civil Sexual Assault Lawsuit?
There is a distinct difference between criminal cases and civil cases. The state determines whether to file and pursue criminal charges against an individual for sexual assault, not the victim. Criminal cases determine guilt or innocence and establish a penalty for those convicted of a criminal offense, such as fines and prison time.
Civil lawsuits are different. Victims of intentional sexual assault can file a civil lawsuit. In their suit, they can prove that it is more likely than not that the perpetrator committed the violent act and, therefore, owes the victim financial compensation for their medical expenses and other losses related to the sexual assault or battery.
Civil and criminal cases are separate legal proceedings meant to accomplish different things. Criminal cases punish wrongdoing, and civil cases aim to gain compensation for the victim’s losses.
What is the Difference Between Sexual Assault and Sexual Abuse?
According to the Texas Penal Code, the following is considered sexual assault:
- Intercourse and penetration without consent
- Coercive sexual acts
- Intercourse, penetration, or sexual contact with a minor
- Sexual abuse of someone who cannot give consent due to disability or mental capacity
- Forcible and violent intercourse, penetration or sexual contact, even with consent
Texas law defines sexual abuse as occurring in the context of an individual receiving certain services, such as a state employee who is providing services to a citizen. In that context, sexual abuse can take the form of:
- A service provider kissing, hugging, stroking, or fondling an individual with sexual intent
- A service provider any activity defined as obscene in the Texas Penal Code
- A service provider requesting, soliciting, or compelling another person to engage in obscene activity
- Committing sexual exploitation, sexual assault, or aggravated sexual assault
- Photographing or videotaping activities that could be considered pornographic
An experienced sexual assault attorney can explain more about the differences between sexual assault and sexual abuse if you are curious about your rights under Texas law as a survivor.
Types of Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault
Sexual assault includes any unwanted sexual contact without consent. This includes everything from unwanted groping to rape and sexual coercion. Common types of sexual abuse and assault include:
- Rape – Non-consensual sexual intercourse.
- Sexual assault – This broad category includes unwanted touching, fondling, or penetration.
- Sexual harassment – Unwelcome sexual advances or conduct in professional or educational settings.
- Exploitation – Using someone in a sexual act or video without their consent.
- Coercion and manipulation – Forcing or pressuring someone to participate in sexual activity against their will.
The type of sexual assault involved in your case helps us evaluate the potential damages and legal remedies. Our Houston sexual assault attorneys can explain your options and what you can expect from your claim.
Common Places Where Sexual Abuse Occurs
Sexual assault can happen anywhere, but certain locations pose higher risks. Studies indicate that assaults frequently occur in:
- Private homes – These cases often involve acquaintances or family members.
- Workplaces and schools – Sexual harassment or sexual exploitation frequently occurs in environments where power imbalances exist.
- Transportation services – Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies put customers at risk when they fail to contract only with safe drivers.
- Public spaces – Parks, bars, and public events are common opportunities for assaults.
- Healthcare or caregiving settings – Abuse by caregivers or medical staff.
Where the abuse took place can help our attorneys collect evidence for a civil claim. We work with law enforcement and other entities to strengthen your sexual assault lawsuit.
What Is the Process for Filing a Lawsuit?
First, discuss your situation with a Houston lawyer who has experience representing survivors of sexual assault. A sexual assault attorney can outline your legal options and walk you through the process of filing a sexual assault civil lawsuit. Filing suit involves:
- Investigating to collect and preserve evidence
- Filing a petition with the correct court while adhering to legal deadlines
- Serving notice to the perpetrator
- Preparing testimony for depositions and the trial
- Creating a compelling trial strategy
- Presenting your case in court
An attorney can file the paperwork against the alleged perpetrator and help determine whether other entities may be liable for compensating you for your injuries.
Sexual Abuse on College Campuses
The number of sexual assaults that occur on college campuses and universities is staggering. Despite numerous studies about the widespread problem and complete failure to protect students and staff, the unsettling trend continues. Men and women at Texas institutions and schools throughout the country continue to be the victims of horrific sexual trauma. Statistics of sexual assault at colleges and universities:
Of the female undergraduate students surveyed at the University of Texas at Austin,
fifteen percent reported that they had been raped. (
The Dallas Morning News)
Female college students between the ages of 18 and 24 are three times more likely than all women to experience sexual violence. (
Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network - RAINN)
Thirteen percent of undergraduate and graduate student rapes and sexual assaults are done through the use of “physical force, violence, or incapacitation.” (RAINN)
Instances of sexual assaults on college campuses are not only under-reported by victims but may also be under-reported by the institution, including 30 instances of rape that went unreported by Texas State University in 2016 and 2017. (
The Texas Tribune)
