Yes, in many cases. Colorado judges frequently allow anonymous sexual assault lawsuits, where the survivor sues under a pseudonym like “Jane Doe” or “John Doe.” Colorado law also protects your name in criminal justice records if you report the assault to police.
Please note: Greer Law Group handles sexual abuse claims against institutions and organizations that allowed the abuse to happen, such as schools, churches, youth programs, hotels, and employers. We do not take cases against an individual acting alone, such as a family member, spouse, partner, or acquaintance. If that describes your situation, the Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault and the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673 can connect you with support.
If you report a sexual assault, you might worry about your name becoming public. Here is how your identity can be protected in both civil and criminal cases.
Can I File a Civil Sexual Assault Lawsuit Under a Pseudonym?
Civil cases work a little differently from criminal ones. In a civil case, we can ask the judge to let you proceed under a pseudonym like “Jane Doe” or “John Doe.” Judges frequently grant these requests.
Judges can also issue confidentiality orders to protect your identity in an anonymous sexual assault lawsuit, either by agreement of both sides or at our request.
The judge decides whether to allow cameras into a civil trial, so media coverage in the courtroom can be restricted. Judges can also order public exhibits redacted to remove anything that identifies you before release.
The rape shield law adds another layer of protection by limiting questions about your sexual history. Read Colorado Rape Shield Law in Civil Sexual Assault Cases.
How Criminal-Case Privacy Differs
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.
If the criminal case is still open when you decide to sue, read Civil Sexual Assault Lawsuit During a Criminal Case.
Protecting Your Identity If You Decide to Sue
You probably have concerns about seeking compensation from those responsible for your sexual assault. We’ll give you the information you need to decide for yourself whether it’s time to sue your attacker. We know how to protect our clients’ identities and how to request protective orders from the judge. For what to look for in a lawyer, read How to Choose a Civil Sexual Assault Lawyer.
The decision to sue your attacker or anyone else responsible is yours alone, and we won’t push you. Call Greer Law Group at 303-331-6460 or contact us online to schedule a free case evaluation.
