Consequences of DC Student Sexual Assault and Rape Charges

When facing accusations of student rape and sexual assault, students are advised to get legal help immediately. Contacting a defense attorney who is familiar with the various consequences of DC student sexual assault and rape charges could be crucial to a person’s defense. A knowledgeable defense lawyer could provide the legal support and guidance you need.

Why Colleges and Universities Aggressively Pursue Sexual Assault Allegations

Sexual assault charges are extremely serious. Since universities purport to be concerned about their students’ wellbeing, claims of sexual assault directly undermine a university’s credibility. In recent years, the regularity with which sexual assaults occur on campus has received more public attention.

While universities have not historically given sexual assault much consideration, colleges have adjusted their approach to these allegations in recent years. The seriousness of the offense, coupled with the existing public attention, has caused most universities to prefer erring on the side of being overly-aggressive when pursuing these allegations. A sexual assault and rape defense attorney could explain how the recent awareness of sex crimes on campus may impact a student’s case in DC.

Institutions Work to Keep Students Safe on Campus

Universities always have an interest in protecting their students and any other individual on campus. In theory, it is part of the university’s mission to educate and take care of the students who are enrolled. From a business and marketing standpoint, schools seek to promote a safe, secure, and healthy environment in order to attract tuition-paying students.

As public attention focuses on sexual assault on campuses, schools are being examined thoroughly by potential students and their families. Since families consider the safety and well-being of their children first and foremost when deciding where to send them to school, it is in the university’s interest to promote and emphasize a zero-tolerance approach to sexual assault cases.

Potential Consequences of Sexual Assault Charges on Campus

As a seasoned lawyer could explain, the potential consequences of sexual assault charges vary greatly. An accused student could face moderate consequences in the form of a warning or campus probation, and any additional infractions could result in very serious repercussions. Generally, sexual assault penalties involve: 

• Losing access to campus housing
• Suspension from school
• Expulsion from school or being banned from campus

Most universities would not contemplate a scenario where a student found guilty of such a crime is allowed to return to the campus. Whether a student is facing sexual assault or rape charges, they could benefit from contacting a DC attorney for help with their case.

Campuses Could Refer Cases to Law Enforcement

There could also be a referral to D.C. law enforcement for potential criminal charges due to the serious nature of the offense. Criminal charges have a different standard of evidence for rape charges than campus conduct hearings.

Face Your Charges with the Assistance of a Student Defense Lawyer

A student defense attorney can help individuals accused of sexual misconduct in a few different ways. Dedicated lawyers could assist you by searching for evidence, building a defense case, and presenting the findings to the university in an effective way. Experienced lawyers might know how to find additional outside resources that may benefit you and your family. This includes counseling or alternative educational opportunities.

While legal counsel could help with defending students against such allegations, they will usually not be allowed to represent the student directly. The lawyer could work with you so that you are thoroughly prepared for every step in a conduct hearing process. Reach out to a committed attorney today to learn your rights.