Yes. Civil and criminal cases operate under different legal standards. A criminal case requires proof beyond a reasonable doubt, while a civil case requires a lower standard of evidence, known as a preponderance of the evidence. You can pursue civil remedies regardless of whether criminal charges were ultimately filed or resulted in a conviction.
Sexual Harassment and Assault
Sexual Harassment and
Assault Lawyers
Sexual harassment and assault affect millions of people every year. They leave survivors dealing with consequences that extend far beyond the initial trauma. The legal system offers real paths to accountability, but knowing where to start is often the hardest part.
At DeGolia Law P.C., we represent survivors who deserve justice and a legal team that treats them with dignity and respect. We serve clients in Colorado and California, assisting with civil claims, criminal advocacy, and immigration support for undocumented survivors. Attorney Benjamin DeGolia founded our firm on a core belief: people harmed by powerful systems deserve strong, principled legal representation, and we continue to carry out that vision with each case we take on.
Who We Serve
Survivors of sexual harassment and sexual violence often face complex legal issues. DeGolia Law P.C. prides itself on providing complete, holistic legal services in this area. No situation is too complicated, and no client is turned away because of their immigration status or background.
We regularly represent clients facing situations involving:
- Housing-Related Assault: A landlord or property manager conditions housing decisions on sexual favors, or a tenant is assaulted in a building where known security failures went unaddressed.
- Institutional Abuse: Abuse occurs inside a youth program or other trusted institution, where leaders ignored warning signs to protect the organization’s reputation.
- Retaliation After Reporting: A survivor reports misconduct and faces demotion, reduced hours, or sudden termination shortly after coming forward.
- Undocumented Survivors: A survivor experiences sexual violence but fears that reporting could jeopardize their immigration status, forcing them to carry that burden in silence.
At DeGolia Law P.C., we go beyond civil claims to serve as your victim advocate in any criminal proceedings, fighting for your rights at every stage of the process. For undocumented survivors, we also prepare U Visa applications to help you obtain legal status and start a path to citizenship.
How We Handle Your Case
The legal process can feel unfamiliar, especially when you are managing the weight of what happened. Our team walks with you through each stage, clearly explaining your options so you can make informed decisions.
Here is a general overview of how we approach sexual harassment and assault cases:
- Free Initial Consultation: We thoroughly review your situation, provide a clear legal assessment, and outline the strongest path forward for your case.
- Strategic Negotiation: Where possible, we open negotiations with the responsible party, present evidence, and advocate for a resolution that reflects the seriousness of what you experienced.
- Trial Preparation and Representation: When negotiation does not produce a fair outcome, our team prepares fully and represents you in court, drawing on our extensive courtroom experience.
- Criminal Advocacy: If your case involves criminal proceedings, we serve as your victim advocate throughout that process alongside any civil claims.
- U Visa Support: For undocumented survivors, we prepare and submit U Visa applications to help you access legal protection.
Why Choose DeGolia Law P.C.?
Many law firms handle harassment cases. Fewer treat survivors the way they deserve to be treated throughout the process.
Navigating the legal system after surviving sexual harassment or assault can be intimidating, but having a powerful and compassionate advocate by your side can help you protect your rights and obtain justice.
Our approach reflects the values that have guided this firm since its founding:
- Over 20 years of legal experience across civil rights, employment law, fair housing, and sexual violence cases.
- Holistic representation that covers civil claims, criminal proceedings, and immigration relief under one roof.
- Bilingual services available in English and Spanish, so language is never a barrier to getting help.
- A strong record of client trust, reflected in consistently positive client reviews.
Attorney Benjamin DeGolia has been working with survivors of child abuse, sexual harassment, and sexual violence for over fifteen years, and he considers this to be the most important area of his law practice. Although no attorney can guarantee a successful outcome in your case, DeGolia Law P.C.’s promise to you is that you will be treated with compassion, dignity, and respect.
Reach Out for a Free Consultation
Sexual harassment and assault are not matters to be quietly endured. They are civil rights violations, and the law provides survivors with real tools to hold perpetrators and institutions accountable.
At DeGolia Law P.C., our team is ready to hear your story, assess your options, and advocate for the outcome you deserve. Contact us now to set up a free consultation.
FAQs About Sexual Harassment and Assault Cases
What if I am undocumented? Can I still pursue a legal claim?
Your immigration status does not prevent you from pursuing civil legal claims. DeGolia Law P.C. also prepares U Visa applications for undocumented survivors of certain crimes, including sexual assault. A U Visa can provide temporary legal status and a path toward permanent residency.
What types of compensation can survivors recover?
Survivors may be able to recover damages for lost wages, medical and therapy costs, emotional distress, and punitive damages in certain cases. The specific compensation available depends on the facts of your case and which laws apply.
What should I do first if I have experienced sexual harassment or assault?
Document everything you can: dates, descriptions of what happened, names of witnesses, and any written or electronic communications. Report the conduct through available channels if it is safe to do so, and seek medical attention if needed. Then, contact an attorney as early as possible to determine your legal options before any deadlines pass.
What is the Difference Between a Civil Lawsuit and a Criminal Case for Sexual Harassment or Assault?
A civil lawsuit focuses on compensating the victim for harm suffered, including financial losses, emotional distress, and other damages. It is initiated by the person who experienced the harassment or assault. A criminal case, on the other hand, is brought by the state or federal government, aiming to hold the perpetrator accountable through penalties such as fines, probation, or jail time. These two processes can occur independently of each other.
Schedule a Free Consultation
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Attorney Advertising. This information is designed for general information only. The information presented should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Past results and testimonials are not a guarantee, warranty, or prediction of the outcome of your case, and should not be construed as such. Past results cannot guarantee future performance. Any result in a single case is not meant to create an expectation of similar results in future matters because each case involves many different factors, therefore, results will differ on a case-by-case basis. By providing contact information, users acknowledge and give explicit consent to be contacted via the methods of communication provided, including SMS. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency may vary. Reply STOP to opt out. NUVEW | Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved | Accessibility Notice | Legal Disclaimer | Privacy statement
