If you report a sexual assault, you might worry about your name becoming public. Fortunately, Colorado law has built-in protections to prevent this from happening. Judges also frequently allow survivors to proceed anonymously if they decide to sue.
At Greer Law, our focus is on protecting our clients as much as possible when they decide to sue their attackers. Here is some information about what your rights are as a sexual assault survivor in both the criminal and civil law situation.
Disclosure of Names in Criminal Cases
Colorado law requires authorities to remove a survivor’s name and identifying details from criminal justice records before public release.
During criminal trials, prosecutors usually ask judges to let survivors use a pseudonym or initials to protect their identity.
Civil Cases Also Can Protect Against Disclosure
Things are a bit different in civil cases.
Greer Law can ask the judge to let you proceed under a pseudonym like “Jane Doe” or “John Doe.” Judges frequently grant these requests and issue confidentiality orders agreed upon by both sides to protect your identity.
Courtroom media coverage can also be restricted – it’s up to the judge whether to allow cameras into a civil trial. Judges can also order public exhibits redacted to remove any identifying survivor information before release.
Greer Law is Here to Protect You and Help You Recover Compensation
At Greer Law, we know you probably have concerns about seeking compensation from those responsible for your sexual assault. Our goal is to give you the information you need so you can make your own decision about whether it’s time to sue your attacker. We know how to protect our clients’ identities and effectively request protective judge’s orders.
Contact Greer Law if you are considering suing your attacker or other responsible parties. We won’t try to push you into making a decision that is yours alone to make. Instead, we are here to give you the information you need to make that decision.
Call us at 303-331-6460, or reach out online to schedule a free case evaluation.
