Civil Justice Practitioners

Safe Housing

Many sexual assaults take place in or near the victim's home. Some victims feel compelled to relocate for safety, mental health, or other reasons. A civil attorney may help victims be excused from their lease or rental agreement or help them receive compensation for their damages. A limited but increasing number of jurisdictions have enacted laws to limit victims' liability if they break a lease or contract as a result of a sexual assault.

A civil attorney may also help victims enter public or subsidized housing or secure a housing transfer. For victims who want to remain in their current housing, an attorney may help obtain security enhancements, reasonable accommodations, or other necessary adaptations that allow victims to retain their home.