April Is Sexual Assault Awareness Month: Know Your Rights and Resources
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month—a time to elevate the voices of survivors, provide critical information, and ensure those affected understand their rights and options.
If you or a loved one has experienced sexual assault, support is available. You can contact the National Center for Victims of Crime’s VictimConnect Resource Center at 855-4-VICTIM (855-484-2846) or visit https://victimconnect.org for confidential guidance, support, and resources.
At The Haggard Law Firm, we have spent decades advocating for survivors. Below are survivor support and legal insights everyone should know.
- It Was Not Your Fault
Sexual assault is never the victim’s fault—no matter the circumstances. What you wore, where you were, or whether you knew the perpetrator does not excuse the harm.
- You Can Still Seek Justice
Many survivors believe too much time has passed to take action. In reality, laws in many states—including Florida—allow survivors to come forward years later. Legal timelines vary, but options may still be available even in older cases.
- Silence Protects Abusers — Understand Your Rights
Remaining silent can allow perpetrators to continue harming others. Speaking with an experienced attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options—empowering you to take back control of your situation.
- You Don’t Need a Criminal Case to Take Action
A criminal case is not required to pursue justice in civil court. Even if law enforcement did not file charges, survivors can still file a civil lawsuit to hold perpetrators—and other responsible parties – accountable.
- Institutions Can Be Responsible Too
In many cases, organizations share responsibility. Schools, workplaces, hotels, security companies, and other institutions may be held liable when negligence or failure to provide adequate safety creates conditions for abuse.
- Preserve Evidence If You Can
If possible, preserving evidence can strengthen a case. This may include:
- Clothing
- Text messages or emails
- Photos
- Medical records
However, if evidence was not preserved, you may still have a valid claim.
- You Are Not Alone
Support is available. Survivors can turn to counselors, victim advocates, and attorneys who focus specifically on helping those affected by sexual violence. Reaching out is often the first step toward healing.
- Your Story Matters
Coming forward can do more than seek justice for yourself—it can help prevent future abuse. Holding perpetrators accountable often protects others and creates safer communities.
- Consultations Are Confidential
Speaking with an attorney is completely private. A consultation does not obligate you to file a lawsuit—it simply provides information so you can make an informed decision.
- Justice Can Be Part of Healing
Legal action is not just about financial compensation. For many survivors, it is about:
- Accountability
- Answers
- Closure
- Preventing future harm
Contact a Sexual Assault Attorney
If you or someone you love has been a victim of sexual assault, you have rights—and you deserve to understand them.
For immediate support, contact the VictimConnect Resource Center at 855-484-2846 or visit https://victimconnect.org.
To learn more about your legal options, The Haggard Law Firm is here to help you navigate the path forward with compassion, confidentiality, and experience. Contact us
Legal DisclaimerThis blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed by reading or interacting with this content. Legal outcomes depend on the specific facts and applicable law, and results may vary. You should not act or refrain from acting based on this information without seeking professional legal counsel.
