Top
van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin
Call Us Today! 215-610-3440
Follow Us
Institutional Sexual Assault Safe and Protected with Powerful Representation
  • Not Guilty DUI
  • Not Guilty College student rape case
  • Acquittal Impeachment Trial
  • Charges Dropped Embezzlement
  • Charges Dropped Embezzlement
  • Pardon Granted Governor’s Pardon for Assault
  • Not Guilty Aggravated Assault
  • Pardon Granted Governor’s Pardon for Theft
  • Not Guilty Double Homicide
  • Not Guilty Child Pornography
  • Not Guilty Drug Trafficking
  • Not Guilty Rape case
  • Not Guilty Murder Case
  • Not Guilty Aggravated Assault
  • Charges Dropped Arson
  • Not Guilty Drug Trafficking

Philadelphia Institutional Sexual Assault Lawyer

Institutional Sexual Assault Defense Attorney in Philadelphia, PA Protecting Due Process in Sensitive Cases Throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, there are a variety of categories of sexual assault, all of which have different legal consequences. The type of sexual assault offense a person is charged with depends on certain factors, including the nature of the sexual contact and the identities of the alleged victim and assailant. For instance, when the individuals involved have a special relationship, an offense can qualify as institutional sexual assault, which carries especially severe penalties. If you have been charged with sexual assault, it is critical to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney who may be able to get your charges reduced or even dismissed.

Find Out What Your Case is Worth

We invite you to reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team. Call (215) 610-3440 or contact us online to learn more.

    Having been represented on different subjects Mike has provided the same outstanding results!
    “This law firm has been nothing but the best for my company! Mr. van der Veen has always worked very hard and communicated well with each situation that he has represented me in. I would highly recommend this firm!”
    - Sewall M. Jr.
    You should not go anywhere else.
    “This firm is the absolute best! Very knowledgeable, pleasant, and amazing!! I recommend this Law firm to anyone with an issue.  can't speak highly enough for this firm and it's attorneys! It was truly a wonderful experience.”
    - Bennie H.
    The team is definitely a dream team straight outta Philadelphia Center City!
    “I first want to thank this dream team they definitely was a pleasure to work with and I am glad I chose Van der Veen law firm to get the jobs”
    - RB
    Michael is superb! Great attorney, great team, great job.
    “Outcome was better than expected. Forever thankful to Mike’s reliable firm. If you want great results they are your guys. Strongly recommend.”
    - Ninel B.
    They handled every aspect of my case with integrity and pride.
    “Wonderful customer service. The team at van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin is the real deal. I would definitely recommend them.”
    - Former Client
    They make my concerns their concerns.
    “Thank you for always picking up the phone. I could not have a better firm representing myself, family and my friends. If you want an attorney that gets the job done, Look no more!!! Contact Attorney van der Veen.”
    - Leslie L.
    Guided me through the process for a success.
    “Very satisfied with the way they handled my case, answer all my question, provided me with needed information.”
    - Frank A.
    They take full control of your case allowing you to have peace of mind while they win.
    “I have been a client of this firm for many years now, and all that I can say is these are the Top Lawyers in the City! My experience over the years have been excellent! Thank you van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin. Job very well done.”
    - Quiana

Who can be Charged With Institutional Sexual Assault?

According to state law, individuals who fill certain occupations and engage in sexual contact with a resident, patient, detainee, or inmate can be charged with institutional sexual assault. This includes employees of:

  • The Department of Corrections;
  • Juvenile detention facilities;
  • Youth forestry camps and development centers;
  • Groups homes;
  • Mental health facilities; and
  • Licensed residential facilities that serve children and youth.

This offense can be charged as a third degree felony, which is punishable by a prison sentence of up to seven years and a fine of $15,000.

Students and School Employees

The institutional sexual assault law also prohibits sexual relationships between school employees and students, regardless of the student’s age or ability to legally consent to the act. A school employee is defined as any of the following individuals:

  • Teachers;
  • Supervisors;
  • Principals;
  • Vice principals;
  • Directors of vocational education;
  • Dental hygienists;
  • School counselors;
  • Child nutrition specialists;
  • School librarians;
  • School secretaries;
  • School nurses;
  • Substitute teachers;
  • Bus drivers;
  • Janitors;
  • Cafeteria workers;
  • Teacher aides; and
  • Any other employees who supervise, provide care, or offer guidance to students.

The term also covers independent contractors who have a contract with the school to perform a service, which includes:

  • Coaches;
  • Athletic trainers; and
  • Coaches or athletic trainers hired as independent contractors by the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association.

However, the law does not apply to any of the following individuals:

  • Students employed by the school;
  • Independent contractors who have no direct contact with students; and
  • Employees of independent contractors as long as they have no direct contact with students.

In addition to jail time and hefty fines, those who are convicted of committing institutional sexual assault are also required to register on the national sex offender registry. This can severely restrict a person’s ability to obtain employment or housing, while also causing irreparable damage to his or her reputation.

The Person Who Sees The Whole Picture Meet Michael T. van der Veen
From local business owners, to the President of the United States, we fight for everyone's best interest. As founder of the firm, Michael T. van der Veen effortlessly combines accessibility, experience, negotiation, collaboration, and compassion to achieve results. He is the rare trial attorney who excels in both civil litigation and criminal defense. Known for his unwavering commitment to serving as the voice of the victim and advocate for the accused, he has established his reputation by winning multimillion-dollar jury verdicts in State and Federal Courts, as well as winning major criminal trials across the country.
Wheel
  • CNN
  • ABC
  • FOX
  • NBC
  • CBS
  • NYT
  • Philadelphia Inquirer
  • TMZ
  • Yahoo! News

Frequently Asked Questions About Institutional Sexual Assault Defense in Philadelphia, PA

Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 215-610-3440 today!

  • Institutional sexual assault is a criminal charge that applies when a person in a position of authority engages in sexual contact with someone under their supervision or care, such as inmates, residents, detainees, patients, or students.
  • Individuals working in correctional facilities, juvenile detention centers, group homes, mental health facilities, residential youth programs, and various other state or licensed institutions can be charged if they engage in prohibited sexual conduct.
  • Yes. Teachers, administrators, coaches, contractors with direct student contact, and many other school employees can be charged, even if the student is over the age of consent.
  • Potential defenses may include challenging false accusations, lack of evidence, improper investigation, or arguing that the defendant did not have the type of supervisory or custodial relationship required under the statute.

in their own words

Clients share their experiences and results firsthand
    "He gives you the impression there’s a person you can count on, a person that you can rely on in terms of having some representation. He kept me informed, he kept me up to date with everything that was going on throughout the process. What doctor, what appointments, who I have to see…I was always very well informed." -Sam
    "this law firm has afforded low income people of Philadelphia a relationship with an attorney that they can come and meet. To have a the intuition to give a damn about the little people, and then give them that same kind of respect and consideration is unmatched." -Melvin
    "I love that I have Mike on my side, whenever I question what am I supposed to do? I used to call my dad and after my dad passed, even for things that aren’t always law related, I know I could still call Mike, and I love that about him. He’s just amazing, and I know that if I send somebody here that they’re going to be represented a hundred percent." -Jamie
    "He represented me in multiple criminal cases, and I had a lengthy criminal record. He never judged me, and treated me like anybody else, he never looked at me different. He's a real good guy, professional, very honest. When I say I never went to another attorney...he's the best." -Tiffany

the complete coverage advantage

  • Full-Spectrum
    Law

    From criminal defense to personal injury and beyond, clients gain seamless, strategic support from a full-service law firm built to handle every legal challenge under one roof.

  • Values-Driven
    Practice

    From pro bono advocacy to charitable and community involvement, our attorneys are deeply invested in the people and causes they serve, because real justice includes giving back.

  • Human-Centered
    Advocacy

    We stand as the voice of the injured and a strong advocate for the accused. We don’t just see a case, we see the people and futures at stake, and we fight accordingly.

  • High-Caliber
    Results

    Our attorneys are nationally recognized, featured in major media, and trusted with the complex, high-stakes cases, because when the outcome matters most, experience matters more.

Safe and Protected with Powerful Representation

Trial Lawyers Excelling in the Areas of Law Most Critical to You and Your Family
  • By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy