Relationship drama, lack of impulse control, alcohol, a desire for attention, failure to consider consequences … all of these factors and more can cause high school and college students to make poor choices. We have all heard about high school students who texted nude photos to a friend, only to find the photos broadly disseminated or posted online. About students being sexually harassed to the point that their school qualifies as a hostile environment. About sexual assaults.
But we have also heard about false allegations of sexual harassment or assault that resulted in substantial damage to the accused student. Colleges may act too swiftly to suspend or otherwise punish the accused to avoid possible Title IX violations. Law enforcement officials file criminal charges. The wrongly accused suffer setbacks in their education, psychological trauma, and blemishes on their criminal record that take time and effort to clear.
At the law office of The Law Office of Brian M. Krause, P.C., we understand that youth and sex are an explosive combination. Thus, while most accusations of on-campus sexual assault or harassment are fact-based, some are exaggerated or completely false. When a young person is accused of this type of misconduct, it is crucial to retain a lawyer to safeguard the rights of the accused, ensure that a proper investigation is done, and works to minimize the consequences on their life.
Attorney Krause will go to work immediately to protect your student from overly harsh treatment by both their school and the police. In more than a decade of legal practice, attorney Krause has developed a particular sensitivity to issues involving men's rights. He understands that any hint of sexual misconduct can have long-lasting repercussions and will take every precaution to protect a young person's reputation and future.
In Illinois, the Preventing Sexual Violence in Higher Education Act requires all colleges and universities to adopt a comprehensive policy concerning sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. The policy must provide procedures for students to report violations of the policy and for the school to respond.
When a student accuses another student of sexual misconduct, the consequences can be serious. A student victim may pursue a complaint through the school's disciplinary process and/or through the police. A victim may also seek a court order of protection or pursue a civil action for damages.
Aside from nonconsensual or forcible sex crimes, a student in Illinois can be charged with criminal offenses such as:
If you are a student or the parent of a student facing school or criminal charges related to a sexual accusation, attorney Brian M. Krause has the experience and focus to handle your case through to a successful outcome.
The law office of The Law Office of Brian M. Krause, P.C. provides effective and affordable legal assistance to clients in Cook County including the communities of Hoffman Estates, Rolling Meadows, Schaumburg, Streamwood, Barrington, South Barrington, Hanover Park, and Palatine. Contact us in our Hoffman Estates office at 630-388-8253.