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ARTICLE · 16 OCTOBER 2026

Can An Employer, School, Or Organization Be Liable For Sexual Assault Cases ?

Watson Goepel LLP
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Experiencing sexual assault can have lasting emotional, physical, and financial impacts. If the assault occurred in an organization such as a workplace, school, sports association, or religious institution, you may be wondering whether the organization, not just the individual responsible, can be held legally accountable.

CanadaLitigation, Mediation & Arbitration
Watson Goepel
Watson Goepel
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Experiencing sexual assault can have lasting emotional, physical, and financial impacts. If the assault occurred in an organization such as a workplace, school, sports association, or religious institution, you may be wondering whether the organization, not just the individual responsible, can be held legally accountable.

In British Columbia, the answer may be yes. In some situations, survivors can bring a civil sexual assault claim against such an organization that failed to take reasonable steps to protect them or respond appropriately to known risks. Understanding your legal rights can help you decide what, if any, next steps are right for you.

Can an organization be held responsible for sexual assault?

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