Legal Help from a Texas School Sexual Assault Attorney: A Guide for Survivors

One of the most devastating events a student can endure on a college or university campus is experiencing sexual assault. Whether this happens at a school event, in student housing, or even in a classroom, survivors often grapple with the emotional impact, academic disruption, confusion of what to do next, and fear that there may be repercussions for coming forward. For Texas students, knowing your legal rights and having the help of a Texas student sexual assault attorney can make all the difference in not only your case but in your recovery.

At Hager Law, we treat survivors with compassion and dignity as we advocate for their case. Legal action is not just about winning in court; it’s about restoring the balance of justice, regaining victim power and agency, and holding the accused party accountable for their actions.

Understanding Texas Law about Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is a very serious crime in Texas. While Texas law recognizes sexual assault as a criminal offense, survivors may also have legal civil suit options. If an institution fails to provide students with adequate protection, ignores complaints, or mishandles student reporting, students can also take civil legal action.

Sexual assault cases on college and university campuses are a very serious and, unfortunately, ongoing issue across the state of Texas. As discussed, these occurrences can happen in dormitories, during school-sponsored activities, in off-campus housing, or even in an academic setting. The suspects could be fellow classmates, faculty/staff members, or even non-students who are otherwise connected to the campus.

Why Survivors Need a Texas Student Sexual Assault Lawyer

Survivors of assault initially feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn. If the institution decides they need to save face rather than provide safety for the victim and consequences for the offender, then a Title IX investigation can make it even more challenging for survivors to feel as if their case may be biased, or no one is going to believe them, and possibly dismiss them or even retaliate against them. It can feel isolating, overwhelming, and confusing. Victims don’t need to navigate this difficult time on their own, but they need to have resources available to help them get to the other side of recovery.

Civil vs. Criminal Cases

In a criminal case, the perpetrator is pursued and punished by the state. A civil case is brought by the survivor and focuses on compensation and accountability for the harm they’ve caused.

Civil lawsuits may give students the opportunity to recover damages for:

• Relocation of housing costs
• Tuition and educational opportunities lost
• Counseling and medical expenses
• Emotional distress

Some civil cases may be the only path to take if criminal charges are either not filed or there is no conviction. A skilled Texas student sexual assault attorney can help you choose which legal course is best for you.

Accountability for Schools & Institutions

Title IX legally requires colleges and universities to appropriately respond to sexual assault reports. The failure to comply or act, ignore warning signs, or allow perpetrators to remain on campus indicates they may be legally responsible.

Hager Law also focuses on the accountability of the institution as well as the individual predator. When schools neglect their responsibility of protecting students, legal action can help prevent harm and create safer campuses.

Survivor-Centered Legal Assistance

​The biggest concerns survivors often have are whether someone will believe them and respect them after being assaulted. At Hager Law, we show our clients who have suffered sexual assault the utmost compassion, confidentiality, and care. We handle our assault cases with a trauma-informed approach that prioritizes the victim’s emotional well-being as well as a positive legal outcome.

Working with a Texas student assault attorney means working with an advocate who can navigate the complexities of cases that deal with campus sexual assault and will fight for justice.

Photo by Becca Tapert on Unsplash

Taking the First Step

​Speaking with an attorney does not mean you have to file a lawsuit. It gives you an opportunity to gather information, know all of your options, and make a well-informed decision. There are statutes of limitations (time limits) that can make a difference if you decide to pursue a claim. As a result, reaching out sooner rather than later is always better to preserve evidence and protect your rights.

Contact One of Our Texas Student Sexual Assault Attorneys

You are not alone, and your story matters. You deserve to be heard, believed, and protected during this difficult time. The process to heal after sexual assault can take time, but receiving justice does not have to wait. Are you or someone you know seeking legal guidance from an attorney who specializes in sexual assault in Texas? Our team at Hagar Law is here to listen and advocate for you and your rights every step along the way to healing and justice.