Sexual assault is a prevalent issue on many college campuses, including the University of Washington. Far too often, assailants are not held accountable for their crimes, leaving survivors grappling with lasting trauma. At Estey & Bomberger, LLP, our attorneys are dedicated to helping survivors seek justice.
Understanding the profound impact of these traumatic experiences, our firm is committed to holding accountable not only the assailants but also the institutions that fail to protect their students. With a blend of compassion and legal prowess, we can help you recover the compensation that you deserve so that you can reclaim your voice and strength.
Why Choose the Attorneys at Estey & Bomberger, LLP?
- Our firm has represented sexual assault survivors in civil lawsuits for years, aiming to hold assailants accountable for their actions. We have recovered millions in settlements and jury verdicts on behalf of our clients.
- We know how difficult and painful the aftermath of a sexual assault can be. Our attorneys are committed to treating all of our clients with the respect and dignity that they deserve, ensuring that their identity is protected throughout the case.
- Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis to help minimize your out-of-pocket expenses. You will only be charged legal fees if we recover a settlement or jury verdict on your behalf.
Acts of Sexual Violence Are Never the Survivor’s Fault
Sexual violence can leave survivors facing a range of complex emotions, including guilt, shame, and confusion. If you are dealing with these feelings, it’s important to understand that the responsibility for these acts lies solely with the perpetrator, not the survivor. The feelings you may experience are common, but they do not reflect reality. The fault is never yours.
Healing is a personal journey, and there’s no right or wrong way to navigate it. However, it’s crucial to seek support, whether through counseling, support groups, or trusted friends and family. With the right support system, you can begin to rebuild your sense of self and move forward. You are not alone, and resources are available to assist you on this path, from community-based assistance and mental health professionals to lawyers who can help you seek justice via legal claims.
At Estey & Bomberger, LLP, we believe that all perpetrators of sexual violence deserve to face the consequences of their actions. That’s why we represent survivors in civil claims against these individuals and other involved parties. By seeking justice, you can take a significant step towards healing and reclaiming control of your life.
How a Sexual Assault Attorney Can Protect Your Rights and Dignity
The aftermath of a sexual assault can be deeply traumatic, and filing a lawsuit may be the last priority on your mind. However, you deserve justice, and hiring a lawyer can alleviate the burden of this process. By seeking the assistance of a sexual assault attorney from Estey & Bomberger, LLP, you can better protect your rights and strengthen your lawsuit.
Our lawyers can offer several benefits to support your case, such as:
- Expertise in handling sensitive cases with the utmost respect and confidentiality, ensuring that you feel safe and supported
- A comprehensive understanding of the legal system, enabling effective navigation through complex legal proceedings so that we can advocate for your interests
- Assistance in gathering and presenting evidence, which is crucial for building a strong case against the perpetrator and liable parties
- Negotiation skills to secure fair compensation for all damages suffered, including emotional and psychological harm
- Emotional support and guidance, helping you through the healing process by providing access to necessary resources and services
Pursuing Legal Action After Assault at the University of Washington
There are two main types of legal proceedings following a sexual assault: criminal and civil. A criminal case involves the assailant appearing before a jury, who decides whether they are guilty of the crime. If convicted, they could face penalties like fines or jail time.
Civil actions provide a legal pathway for survivors to seek compensation from the perpetrator or liable parties, separate from any criminal proceedings. A sexual assault lawsuit allows the survivor to claim compensation for damages caused by the assault, such as:
- Medical expenses
- Counseling and therapy costs
- Emotional distress
- Loss of quality of life
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning potential
Additionally, many colleges and universities—including the University of Washington—have internal accountability processes to address instances of sexual assault. These typically involve a hearing before a committee, and penalties typically include suspension or expulsion.
Compared to the other two avenues, civil lawsuits offer tangible benefits to survivors, providing compensation for the damages that they incurred. They also have a lower burden of proof; instead of establishing that the crime occurred beyond reasonable doubt, you must establish that the incident more likely occurred than not. To explore your options for compensation, reach out to an experienced school system sexual abuse attorney at Estey & Bomberger, LLP today.
The Statute of Limitations for Sexual Assault Lawsuits in Washington
In Washington, the statute of limitations for filing a sexual assault lawsuit is typically three years. Although this timeframe can be longer or shorter depending on the facts of your case, failure to file in time will result in the court dismissing your case. Given the stakes, it is important to contact a sexual assault attorney as soon as possible to protect your right to recovery.
Revised Code of Washington Section 4.16.080: Actions limited to three years.
The following actions shall be commenced within three years:
(1) An action for waste or trespass upon real property;
(2) An action for taking, detaining, or injuring personal property, including an action for the specific recovery thereof, or for any other injury to the person or rights of another not hereinafter enumerated
Take Your First Step to Justice—Schedule a Free Consultation
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault at the University of Washington, it’s crucial to know that you are not alone. The specialized school system sexual abuse attorneys at Estey & Bomberger, LLP can provide the support and legal guidance you need during this challenging time.
Our sexual assault attorneys understand the complexities of handling these cases with the sensitivity and confidentiality they require. To discuss your case and explore your legal options, contact us today at (800) 260-7197.