Pursuing Compensation if You Were Sexually Assaulted at College in NYC

Sexual assault can cause serious and lasting trauma, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other conditions that can affect a survivor’s life forever. If you or a loved one was sexually assaulted while attending college in New York City, the Law Office of Michael J. McConnell can help you understand your legal options and pursue compensation.

As a former prosecutor with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, Michael J. McConnell understands the importance of a compassionate, calming, and empathetic approach to representing survivors of sexual trauma. He believes firmly in empowering his clients and helping them move forward with clarity and strength through some of the most challenging periods of their life.

To learn more about how we might be able to help you pursue financial compensation after an on-campus sexual assault in Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, or Queens, give us a call at (914) 810-0510 for a free and confidential consultation or simply book one through the button below.

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Can I Sue for a Sexual Assault That Happened at College in NYC?

Yes. Depending on the circumstances, a survivor may be able to bring a civil lawsuit against the person who committed the assault and, in some cases, a college or other third party that may have contributed to what happened.

Sexual assaults on college campuses can include:

  • Rape and attempted rape
  • Sexual assault while intoxicated or unconscious
  • Non-consensual sexual contact
  • Coercion, intimidation, blackmail, or quid pro quo

If you are unsure whether what happened may support a lawsuit, you can contact us for a free and confidential consultation.

Who Can I Sue for a Campus Sexual Assault in NYC?

The perpetrator may be personally liable for the harm caused. Depending on the facts, a college, university, security company, or other third party may also be legally responsible.

Potential ways a college or university can be held liable through a civil lawsuit for a sexual assault committed on their campus include:

  • Negligent security: broken dorm locks, poor lighting, or other security failures.
  • Negligent hiring, supervision, or retention: ignoring reports of prior sexual abuse.
  • Failing to protect students from known predators: failing to take appropriate action against a known sexual predator.
  • Lack of proper training or policies: when inadequate training or policies contributed to the assault.
  • Cover-up, deliberate indifference, or willful blindness: concealing known sexual misconduct or silencing accusers.

A New York City personal injury lawyer can evaluate whether the facts support a claim against the college or another third party.

Can I Sue Even If There Is No Criminal Prosecution?

Yes. A civil lawsuit and criminal prosecution are separate legal matters.

A criminal case is brought by the local District Attorney and focuses on punishment. A civil lawsuit is brought by the survivor and focuses on obtaining monetary compensation for the harm suffered.

A survivor can have a civil lawsuit without a criminal prosecution, or both cases can proceed at the same time.

What Compensation Can I Recover for a College Sexual Assault?

Depending on the circumstances, compensation may include:

  1. Economic damages: medical expenses, therapy costs, lost income, and related financial losses.
  2. Non-economic damages: pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment or quality of life.
  3. Punitive damages: available only in limited circumstances involving particularly serious misconduct.

The amount of compensation depends on the specific facts and circumstances of each case.

What Evidence Is Important in a NYC Campus Sexual Assault Case?

Important evidence may include:

  1. Medical records
  2. Police reports
  3. Campus incident reports
  4. Photos or video surveillance
  5. Witness names and contact information
  6. Text messages, phone records, social media, and direct messages
  7. College policies, handbooks, prior complaints, security logs, and other internal records

Not every case will have all of this evidence. A survivor may still have a strong claim even when certain records or evidence do not exist.

Ready to Schedule a Free and Confidential Consultation? Let’s Build a Clear Path Forward Today.

If you or a loved one experienced sexual assault while attending college in Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, or elsewhere in New York City, contact the Law Office of Michael J. McConnell for a free and confidential consultation by dialing (914) 810-0510 or signing up for one below.

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Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be legal advice. If you need legal advice, please consult with a licensed attorney immediately to discuss the unique circumstances of your situation.

This page was last updated on August 27th, 2026.