NY College Sexual Assault Attorney

Meet Our Lead Attorney: Thomas P. Giuffra 

Attorney Thomas P. Giuffra is a nationally recognized sexual abuse attorney known for his unwavering commitment to justice and his relentless pursuit of maximum compensation for survivors. Described by his peers as “a fearless litigator who insists on obtaining the highest awards for his clients,” Tom has built a reputation for taking on powerful institutions and holding them accountable for enabling abuse. 

Thomas has successfully represented survivors in high-profile cases against prominent individuals and institutions, including: 

Harvey Weinstein, a case that helped shine a national spotlight on institutional complicity in sexual misconduct. 

Dr. Robert Hadden and Dr. Darius Paduch, two medical professionals accused of abusing their positions of trust. 

Universities, churches, and corporations that failed to protect victims from sexual predators. 

With record-setting verdicts in New York, Tom’s strategic and aggressive approach has helped survivors obtain the justice and financial compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse on a college campus, our firm is here to provide the compassionate and skilled legal representation you need. 

The Difference Between a Civil and a Criminal Case 

The key difference between a civil and a criminal case lies in their purpose, burden of proof, and potential consequences. A criminal case is brought by the state against an individual accused of violating the law, with the goal of punishment, such as imprisonment, fines, or probation. The prosecution must prove the defendant’s guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt,” the highest legal standard.  

In contrast, a civil case is typically filed by a private party (such as a survivor of sexual abuse) seeking compensation for damages like emotional distress, medical expenses, or lost wages. Civil cases require a lower burden of proof, known as “preponderance of the evidence,” meaning it must be more likely than not that the defendant(s) is responsible. 

The Civil Justice Process for Survivors 

The civil justice process for survivors begins with consulting an attorney, who evaluates the case and gathers evidence, such as medical records, witness statements, and institutional policies: 

• The survivor then files a formal complaint detailing the harm suffered and the legal claims being made. The defendant(s) is served with the lawsuit and given time to respond, which may include admitting or denying the allegations or attempting to dismiss the case.  
• If the case proceeds, both sides engage in the discovery process, where they exchange evidence, take depositions, and prepare for trial or settlement negotiations. 
• Many civil cases are resolved through settlements, where the defendant(s) agrees to compensate the survivor without going to trial. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case goes before a judge or jury, where both parties present evidence and arguments.  
• If successful, the survivor may be awarded damages for medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages in cases of egregious misconduct.  

Civil lawsuits can lead to institutional changes, compelling colleges to improve policies and protections against sexual abuse. It also provides financial relief and empowers survivors by holding wrongdoers accountable in a way that the criminal justice system may not always achieve. 

Understanding Title IX and Its Role in College Sexual Assault Cases 

Title IX is a federal civil rights law enacted as part of the Education Amendments of 1972, prohibiting sex-based discrimination in educational institutions that receive federal funding. While initially focused on ensuring gender equity in academics and athletics, Title IX has evolved to play a critical role in addressing sexual harassment and assault on college campuses.  

Schools are legally required to implement policies that prevent and respond to sexual misconduct, including providing clear reporting procedures, offering support services to survivors, and conducting impartial investigations. Failure to comply with Title IX can result in federal funding being withheld and legal action against institutions that mishandle cases. 

In cases of sexual assault on college campuses, Title IX serves as a crucial tool for holding schools accountable and protecting students’ rights. Institutions must ensure a fair grievance process for both survivors and the accused, balancing due process with the need to address sexual violence effectively.  

How Title IX Violations Can Strengthen a Civil Case 

Title IX violations can significantly strengthen a civil case by providing evidence of an institution’s failure to address sexual misconduct. If a school is found to have violated Title IX—whether by mishandling complaints, failing to provide adequate support for survivors, or not enforcing protective measures—this can demonstrate negligence in a civil lawsuit.  

Such violations may help establish that the institution created or allowed a hostile environment, which can support claims of emotional distress, discrimination, or negligence. Additionally, documented Title IX violations can serve as persuasive evidence in court, increasing the likelihood of financial compensation for damages suffered by the victim. 

Who Can Be Held Accountable? 

For college sexual assault, the following parties may be liable: 

• The Perpetrator – The individual who committed the sexual abuse can face criminal charges, civil lawsuits, and disciplinary action from the college. 
• The College or University – If the institution failed to prevent, investigate, or properly respond to the abuse, it could be held liable under Title IX for fostering a hostile environment. 
• Administrators and School Officials – Those responsible for handling complaints, such as Title IX coordinators or disciplinary board members, may be held accountable if they neglect their duties or mishandle cases. 
• Fraternities, Sororities, or Student Organizations – If the assault occurred at an event hosted by a student organization that failed to enforce safety measures, the group and its leadership could face liability. 
• Campus Security and Law Enforcement – Officers or security personnel who fail to respond adequately to reports of sexual abuse may be held responsible for negligence or misconduct. 
• Third-Party Vendors and Contractors – External entities providing services on campus, such as security companies or event organizers, could be liable if their negligence contributed to the assault. 

We Represent Survivors of College Sexual Assault in New York 

Rheingold Giuffra Ruffo Plotkin & Hellman LLP has extensive experience handling high-profile civil sexual assault cases in New York, including representing plaintiffs in cases against Harvey Weinstein, Sean’ P Diddy’ Combs, Dr. Robert Hadden and Dr. Darius Paduch.  

Our legal team is equipped to handle cases of college sexual assault in a compassionate, trauma-informed manner. Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential consultation with an experienced New York Sexual Assault Lawyer. Since we work on a contingency fee basis, you will not pay attorney’s fees unless we win compensation for your injuries.