Local Legal Representation for Survivors of Campus Sexual Assaults
Sexual assault on a college campus can have lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences. If you or a loved one experienced sexual assault or sexual abuse at a college or university in Westchester County, you may have legal options for seeking accountability and compensation.
The Law Office of Michael J. McConnell is a local personal injury firm in Ardsley, NY that provides client-centered legal representation for survivors of sexual trauma that is grounded in compassion, empathy, and genuine care.
As a former prosecutor, Michael J. McConnell understands that discussing a sexual assault can be extremely difficult, which is why he will always take the time to explain your options clearly without pressuring you to take any particular course of action.
To schedule a free and confidential consultation to explore your legal options after a sexual assault on a college campus in Westchester County, give us a call at (914) 810-0510 or book a call through the button below.
Institutional Liability for Campus Sexual Assault in Westchester County, NY
Westchester is home to several major college communities, including New Rochelle, Purchase, Pleasantville, and Bronxville. Colleges and universities throughout these communities have a responsibility to take reasonable steps to protect students, guests, and others on campus.
Depending on the circumstances, a civil lawsuit may be brought against both the perpetrator of the sexual assault and a college or university whose negligence contributed to the assault. This may include inadequate security, failure to respond to known risks, or ignoring prior complaints.
Criminal Prosecution vs. Civil Lawsuit
A civil lawsuit is separate from a criminal prosecution. Even if there is no criminal case, or the criminal process does not result in a conviction, a survivor may still have potential civil claims.
The key differences between a criminal prosecution and civil lawsuit for sexual assault or abuse on a college campus are:
- Purpose: A criminal prosecution seeks punishment, such as jail or prison time. A civil lawsuit seeks financial compensation for the harm suffered.
- Who controls the case: The District Attorney decides whether and how to pursue a criminal case. In a civil lawsuit, the survivor controls the decision to file a lawsuit, accept a settlement, or proceed to trial.
- Burden of proof: Criminal cases require proof beyond a reasonable doubt while civil cases only require proof by a preponderance of the evidence.
You also don’t have to wait for a criminal case to move forward before exploring your civil legal options. If you are considering a civil claim, you should consult with an attorney as soon as possible as there are strict deadlines that could apply to bringing a lawsuit after a sexual assault at college.
Schedule a Free and Confidential Case Evaluation
If you or someone you care about experienced sexual assault on a college campus in Westchester County, a free and confidential consultation can help you understand your legal options.
During your free consultation, you will be treated with compassion and respect. We’ll take the time to understand your situation, answer your questions, and help you determine whether pursuing a civil claim is right for you.
To schedule your free consultation, call us at (914) 810-0510 or sign up for one below.
Disclaimer: This page provides general information and is not legal advice. The availability and viability of any claim depends on the specific facts and applicable law.
This page was last updated on August 27th, 2026.