Fort Collins Sexual Assault Attorney

Sexual Assault Explained

Sometimes, the first hurdle a victim of sexual assault must overcome is realizing they’ve been assaulted. The fact that most sexual assaults are committed by someone the victim knows creates a tangled mix of emotions and thoughts that traps victims in a state of self-blame and inaction.

Sexual assault can encompass a surprisingly large amount of actions, all of which are characterized by unwanted touching of a sexual nature. But no matter the form, sexual assault is often more about exercising power and control over the victim than achieving sexual gratification.

Examples Of Sexual Assault

Common examples of sexual assault and attempted sexual assault include:

• Being groped or touched on your genitals, breasts, or other intimate areas
• Continued touching or rubbing of a sexual nature anywhere on your body, especially after you’ve told the perpetrator to stop
• Unwanted sexual intercourse 
• Being threatened with sexual contact if you don’t comply with the person’s demands
• Being lied to about the reason for sexual touching, such as a doctor claiming such touching is necessary for a thorough physical exam
• Being made to perform a sexual act against your will

It’s important to remember that you can be the victim of sexual assault even if you don’t remember the event.

Some perpetrators prey on individuals who are asleep, intoxicated, or impaired, thinking that they can assault them with impunity. If you notice pain, strange bruises or injuries around your intimate areas, unusual bleeding, or similar signs, get to a hospital right away for treatment.

Trust your gut. If someone touched you on a private part of your body and it left you feeling uneasy, scared or violated, it’s possible that you were sexually assaulted.

Other Types Of Sexual Assault

As mentioned, sexual assault doesn’t fit a specific mold. Anyone can be a victim of sexual assault; people you don’t expect can commit it, and it can occur in places where you might otherwise feel safe. For instance, sexual assault can happen:

• In religious or educational environments
• While using Uber or Lyft
• At rehabilitation, health, or wellness centers
• At work
• In other public or private places

Often, victims of sexual assault are those who are perceived to be in a vulnerable or compromised position. This includes:

• Immigrants
• Children
• Members of the LGBTQ+ community
• Individuals who have consumed alcohol or drugs
• Adults with diminished faculties

It’s crucial not to believe stereotypes about where these crimes occur or who commits them. Sexual assault can happen anywhere, anytime, to anyone.

Compensation For Sexual Assault In Fort Collins

As a survivor of sexual assault in Fort Collins, a lawsuit can enable you to recover financial compensation for your injuries and other losses. The specific type and amount of compensation you can pursue will depend on the facts of your case. 

Your sexual assault lawyer is best able to articulate which of the following damages you should seek in your case:

• The cost of medical exams, urgent care visits, and follow-up medical treatment
• Wages and back pay for time you missed from work
• Relocation expenses if you had to move because of your assault
• Costs associated with counseling and mental health treatment

You might also be able to pursue punitive damages on top of the above-listed compensation. This special type of damages is available when the defendant’s conduct is intentional or extremely negligent.

Who Can You Sue For Sexual Assault In Colorado?

Just as you can recover a variety of expenses, you can seek compensation from several different parties. You can attempt to hold the perpetrator of your assault liable for the harm they’ve caused, but law enforcement might not be able to locate them. If they’re found, they might be in prison and unable to pay compensation.

Through your Fort Collins sexual assault case, you can also sue others who either created or enabled the conditions for your sexual assault to occur. This might include:

• School or university administrators
• The leaders of a church or religious institution
• The owner or manager of a bar or club
• Your employer

When you work with Bachus & Schanker, our skilled legal team can identify all parties who should be held to account for what happened to you.

Where Can I Find A Sexual Assault Lawyer Near Me?

You don’t need to look far for competent, caring, and effective legal representation following a sexual assault. Turn to the law firm of Bachus & Schanker for the help you need.

Our Elite Litigation Group focuses on cases of sexual assault and other traumatic crimes, so you can rest assured that a team of skilled professionals is representing your interests. Our team of Victim’s Advocates will also be there to guide and support you through the ensuing civil and criminal processes.

Sources:

Perpetrators of Sexual Violence: Statistics.

Punitive Damages.

Statistics.