Sexual Assault at Santa Clara University
Santa Clara University has a duty to protect its students from sexual assault, harassment and misconduct. Despite efforts such as its anti-harassment school policy, students still suffer from sex crimes each semester. If you or a loved one has been sexually assaulted at Santa Clara University, the attorneys at Manly, Stewart & Finaldi can help you pursue justice and maximum financial compensation for your injuries and losses. We are dedicated and highly experienced sexual assault and abuse plaintiff’s attorneys in Santa Clara, California.
What Is Sexual Assault?
Sexual assault refers to the unwanted touching of a person’s intimate parts without his or her consent. Rape is one type of sexual assault, but it is not the only form of this crime. Other common examples are attempted rape, statutory rape of a minor, forced oral copulation, public indecency, penetration, fondling and groping. At Santa Clara University and other college campuses, sexual assault can occur in many circumstances:
- In a professor’s office or classroom
- In a dorm room or other on-campus housing
- Hazing while rushing or pledging
- Collegiate sports practices and games
- At a college party
- By a doctor at The Cowell Student Health Clinic
- At work on campus
- Locker rooms, bathrooms and other private areas
- On campus in-between classes
- Restaurants and shops on school grounds
- Campus parking lots
Sexual assault often involves an abuse of power, such as a professor or school administrator taking advantage of his or her position of authority to sexually assault a student. A professor may offer better grades or some other incentive to engage in a romantic or sexual relationship (“quid pro quo” sexual harassment), for example, or intimidate a student into complying with sexual requests. Sexual assault can also involve a coach, friend, fellow student, romantic partner or stranger.
How Do I Report Sexual Assault at Santa Clara University?
If you get sexually assaulted by anyone at Santa Clara University, tell someone. Coming forward can be difficult, but it is important for your mental healing as well as to hold the perpetrator accountable for his or her wrongful acts. Start by telling someone that you know and trust about the incident, such as a friend. Then, report it to the police. Call 911 to reach the Santa Clara Police Department or (510) 981-5900 to reach the Santa Clara University Police. Finally, report sexual misconduct to the university at the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX.
Go to the nearest medical center for a checkup to treat any injuries that you sustained. If it is within 120 hours of the assault, obtain a forensic exam (“rape kit”) to collect any evidence. The closest location to Santa Clara University that offers this service is the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center. Next, get help for the psychological side of a sexual assault by seeing a counselor or therapist. When you’re ready, focus on the legal side of your case by consulting with an attorney at Manly, Stewart & Finaldi.
Do I Need to Hire a Sexual Assault Lawyer?
Working with a sexual assault attorney can give you greater mental peace in the aftermath of a serious trauma. You can trust your attorney to effectively and efficiently handle the legal legwork of a case while you focus on healing as a victim of this heinous crime. Your lawyer can make use of connections to sexual assault legal experts, investigators and other specialists to strengthen your case against a perpetrator and/or the university. Your lawyer will be your confidant, advocate and guide throughout the legal process.
Contact Us Today if You’ve Been Sexually Assaulted at Santa Clara University
If you suffered a sexual assault at Santa Clara University, Manly, Stewart & Finaldi can help you understand and protect your legal rights. We are the nation’s leading sexual assault and abuse law firm, with groundbreaking results that total more than $2 billion for past clients. We offer free and completely confidential initial consultations so that you can learn more about your case at no cost or obligation. Our lawyers represent Silicon Valley sexual assault cases at all colleges in the area, including Stanford University sexual assault cases, and sexual assault at San Jose State. Please call (800) 700-8450 or contact us online today to tell us your story.