Sexual Assault at Colleges and Universities

Colleges and universities should be safe places for students to learn and grow, yet sexual assault remains a widespread issue on campuses across Florida. Whether committed by another student, a faculty member, or someone with access to campus, these crimes leave lasting harm. Schools often mishandle reports or fail to protect survivors, allowing perpetrators to continue their behavior. A Florida sexual assault at colleges and universities lawyer can help you understand your legal options and demand accountability.

If you or a loved one experienced sexual violence on campus or at another facility, such as a pool or spa, you do not have to face the legal process alone. Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada will fight for your rights, whether the school failed to respond appropriately or a third party played a role. A Florida sexual assault at colleges and universities attorney will work to secure justice, financial compensation, and policy changes to improve campus safety for all.

Sexual assault on college campuses remains a widespread issue, affecting students across Florida and the country. One in five women and one in 16 men experience sexual violence during their college years. Yet, more than 90 percent of these crimes go unreported. Schools have a duty to protect students, yet many fail to take meaningful action. A South Florida sexual assault attorney can help victims seek justice when institutions fall short. Legal action holds perpetrators accountable while compelling colleges to make changes that improve student safety.

Colleges and universities must provide a safe environment for students. When sexual assault occurs on campus, multiple parties may bear responsibility. School administrators, faculty, and campus security all play a role in preventing and addressing sexual violence. A lack of proper security measures, failure to respond to complaints, or inadequate policies contribute to the problem.

Many victims know their attacker. Among college women, nine out of 10 sexual assault survivors are familiar with the perpetrator. Yet schools often fail to investigate claims or discipline offenders. Fraternities, sports teams, and social organizations sometimes create environments where assault is more likely. Institutions, such as care facilities, may be liable when they fail to take action against known dangers.

Reporting an attack may feel overwhelming, but taking action protects your rights. Seeking medical care ensures injuries receive proper treatment. A hospital visit also provides documentation that can support a legal case. Speaking with a trusted friend, counselor, or victims’ advocate offers emotional support.

Many survivors hesitate to report due to fear, shame, or concerns about retaliation. However, keeping a record of the event can be crucial. Writing down details, saving messages, taking photographs and preserving clothing as evidence may strengthen a claim. Filing a report with campus authorities or law enforcement creates a record that holds institutions accountable. A Miami sexual assault lawyer can advise on all legal options while ensuring survivors have protection throughout the difficult process.

Pursuing legal action against a college or university holds the institution accountable for failing to prevent or appropriately address sexual assault. While criminal charges focus on punishing the attacker, civil lawsuits financially compensate victims. A lawsuit forces schools to acknowledge wrongdoing and implement better policies.

A South Florida sexual abuse attorney can bring claims under Title IX, a federal law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in education. Schools that fail to address sexual violence may face liability. Other legal avenues, such as premises liability or negligence claims, may also apply. Victims deserve justice, and legal action sends a message that failure to protect students will not be tolerated.

A victim must establish certain facts to hold a college or university accountable. These cases require proving:

• The institution owed a duty to provide a safe learning environment;
• The school failed to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual violence;
• The assault caused physical, emotional, or financial harm; and
• The school’s inaction or negligence contributed to the assault or its aftermath.

Evidence such as witness statements, medical records, text messages, and past complaints against the perpetrator may strengthen a case. A Miami sexual assault lawyer builds a strong claim by collecting and presenting relevant proof.

Campus sexual assault remains a pervasive issue, yet most cases go unreported. Nearly two-thirds of college students experience sexual harassment, highlighting a culture that enables abuse. Survivors often fear retaliation, disbelief, or further harm. Many institutions prioritize reputation over student safety, discouraging victims from speaking out.

Holding institutions accountable forces change. Colleges that disregard abuse must face the consequences. Legal action ensures victims receive justice and compels schools to take meaningful steps toward prevention.

Sexual assault on college and university campuses is a crisis that too often goes unaddressed. Schools have a duty to protect students, yet many fail to take reports seriously, allowing dangerous environments to persist. When institutions neglect their responsibility, survivors deserve justice. Legal action can hold schools accountable, force policy changes, and provide financial compensation for the harm endured in the past and to be endured in the future.

At Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, P.A., we stand with survivors, advocating zealously for their rights and ensuring that negligent colleges and universities face consequences. If you or a loved one experienced sexual violence on campus, taking legal action can help create safer learning environments for all students. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation today, call the Miami personal injury lawyers at Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada at 305-448-8585. You can also connect with us through our secure online contact form. We are only paid if and then there is a financial recovery for you.