College orientation is supposed to be a time of excitement, but sometimes it turns horrific. Sexual abuse at college orientation programs is a huge problem at campuses across the country.
If you experienced sexual abuse or assault during orientation, speak with an attorney at Phillips Law Group about possible legal action. We represent survivors of sexual abuse from all over the country and help them obtain accountability as well as financial compensation.
Sexual abuse on campus encompasses many forms of behavior, from internet bullying based on appearance or sexual expression to stalking, unwanted sexual touching, and rape. According to the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), more than 25 percent of women will experience sexual abuse while they attend college, as will about six percent of men. The numbers for both genders may substantially underestimate the rate of actual sexual abuse on campus.
Orientation week is a time when students are especially vulnerable. They may be living on their own for the first time, eager to make connections, and not be practiced at setting, enforcing, or respecting personal boundaries.
Many students never report these incidents. Those who are willing to share their story of sexual abuse to get accountability from the school and the abuser should contact an attorney at Phillips Law Group as quickly as possible.
Title IX is a federal law that protects students against gender-based discrimination and harassment. When a student is subjected to any form of unwanted sexual behavior on campus, the student’s Title IX rights have been violated.
The law requires educational institutions to enact programs and procedures to protect students from sexual abuse and harassment on campus. Many colleges and universities have implemented steps like:
Institutions also should have vigorous procedures for investigating accusations, punishing wrongdoers, and protecting survivors’ confidentiality.
Navigating the school’s response procedures can be overwhelming for someone who has recently arrived on campus and experienced sexual assault. A Phillips Law Group attorney can help a survivor access all available support and monitor the educational institution’s response to ensure it is meeting its obligations under Title IX.
A sexual assault is a form of personal injury, and a survivor can bring a lawsuit under state law seeking financial damages against anyone whose negligence enabled the abuse. An educational institution also might be liable for violations of Title IX and other federal civil rights statutes if it failed to protect the student or respond to the assault appropriately.
When the incident occurred at an event sponsored or hosted by a group like a campus religious or cultural organization, fraternity or sorority, or similar group, both the local chapter and national organization could be liable. A civil lawsuit against an individual offender is possible—a police report or criminal conviction is not necessary to pursue a civil case.
The experienced attorneys at Phillips Law Group can investigate the incident and identify all parties whose conduct may have enabled or facilitated the campus orientation sexual abuse. The legal team is attuned to the needs of sexual assault survivors and handles cases with the utmost sensitivity while pursuing their rights.
Sexual abuse at college orientation programs can derail a survivor’s academic career before it begins. If you or your child experienced any form of inappropriate sexual behavior on campus, contact Phillips Law Group for a free consultation with a member of our team.
Available 24/7 
