Title IX is a federal law designed to protect students from sex-based discrimination in education. Unfortunately, too many students in New Jersey face sexual abuse and harassment in academic settings—often with little to no support from the very institutions meant to protect them.
At Survivors of Abuse NJ, we represent students of all ages—middle school through college—who have experienced sexual abuse in educational environments. If your school ignored your complaints, failed to take action, or allowed a hostile environment to persist, you may be able to file a civil claim under Title IX or state law to recover damages and force accountability.
What Types of Abuse Fall Under Title IX?
Title IX prohibits schools that receive federal funding from allowing sexual abuse, including:
Rape or sexual assault on campus
Harassment from teachers, coaches, or classmates
Sexual abuse during athletic or extracurricular programs
Retaliation for reporting abuse
Negligent handling of abuse complaints
Schools are required by law to respond promptly and fairly to all reports of sexual misconduct. When they don’t, you have the right to take legal action.
Can I File a Civil Lawsuit Under Title IX?
Yes. A Title IX lawsuit in New Jersey allows you to seek damages against an institution that failed to act appropriately. This is separate from any criminal proceedings and can include:
Medical expenses and therapy
Emotional pain and trauma
Educational setbacks or lost scholarships
Punitive damages for serious misconduct
Compensation for violations of your civil rights
Even if your school took some action, their response may still have been inadequate. Our attorneys can help assess whether you have a case.
Institutions That Can Be Held Liable Include:
Public and private colleges and universities
High schools and middle schools
Charter or religious schools that receive federal funds
School boards or athletic programs
Any academic entity that ignored or mishandled your report
No institution is above the law, especially when it fails to protect students.
Why Trust Survivors of Abuse NJ?
We’ve helped countless survivors of campus abuse
Our team understands both Title IX and civil sexual abuse litigation
No fees unless we win your case
Private, respectful, and trauma-informed legal support