Sacramento Support & Justice for Sexual Assault Survivors

Empowering Community Members, Employees, and Advocates to Reclaim Their Lives

Sacramento’s vibrant communities—spanning government, education, healthcare, and nonprofits—are built on dedication, service, and integrity. Yet, beneath that noble surface, systemic misconduct, abuse of power, and harassment persist. If you’ve experienced sexual assault or harassment within your workplace, community organization, or public sector, you are not alone. You deserve compassionate, expert legal guidance to navigate your path toward safety, healing, and justice.

Led by Scott Herndon—former Stanford faculty member and advocate for survivor’s rights—we understand the unique challenges faced by Sacramento residents and workers facing this difficult situation. We are committed to supporting your journey — respecting your privacy, empowering your voice, and advocating for meaningful change.

Proven Track Record

• $5.1M judgment in Napa for sexual assault
• $3M+ settlement in Hollywood for sexual assault
• Several six figure settlements in Silicon Valley, Napa, Los Angeles, and Sacramento on behalf of employees of technology companies

Your Rights & the Local Landscape

Every resident and employee in Sacramento has the right to a safe, respectful environment. Under California and federal law, you are protected against:

• Unwanted sexual advances, coercion, or verbal/physical misconduct
• Abuse of authority by supervisors, community leaders, or influential figures
• Creating a hostile environment through inappropriate behavior
• Retaliation for reporting misconduct or abuse

Yet, the social, political, and economic fabric of Sacramento can complicate reporting—especially when misconduct involves powerful officials, industry leaders, or longstanding community figures. We’re here to help you understand your rights and support you with discretion and care.

Sacramento’s Local Challenges

• According to Sacramento State University’s Police Department Activity Logs, there were at least 14 calls for service that resulted in reports or sexual misconduct in the 2022-2023 school year alone.
• The California Department of Justice estimates that nearly 1 in 4 women have faced some form of sexual misconduct, often facing barriers in reporting due to fear of retaliation or professional repercussions (California DOJ, 2020).
• Cases involving city officials, school administrators, or community leaders have garnered attention in recent years, highlighting the importance of trusted legal advocacy and community support.

Challenges Specific to Sacramento

• The city’s diversity and governance structure sometimes conceal systemic barriers that prevent victims from speaking out.
• Workplace power dynamics in government, education, and healthcare sectors often favor those in leadership roles, complicating efforts for justice.
• Cultural and social factors—especially in minority communities—may impede reporting or access to resources.

Navigating Sacramento’s Social Scene with Awareness and Care

Sacramento’s vibrant arts festivals, riverfront events, and cultural gatherings celebrate the city’s rich heritage and diversity. From the Sacramento Music Festival to riverfront concerts and neighborhood block parties, these events foster community bonding and enjoyment. However, the social atmosphere also presents potential risks—particularly when alcohol, large crowds, and social pressures intersect. Being informed and vigilant can help ensure your safety while fully experiencing what Sacramento has to offer.

Recognizing Key Risks & How to Protect Yourself

One of the most serious concerns is non-consensual sexual activity, including date rape, which can happen in a variety of social settings. Incidents of coercion or intoxication exploitation are an ongoing, underreported issue that requires awareness and proactive safety measures. These can occur anywhere—from a downtown concert at the Golden 1 Center to private parties at Sacramento-area wineries.

Specific Venues & Events to Be Mindful Of

• Downtown Sacramento Nightlife: Bars like the Shady Glen or the Grid Lounge host popular nights with music and drinks. Always go out with trusted friends, monitor your alcohol intake, and stay in well-lit, public areas.
• City Festivals & Community Events: The Sacramento Music Festival, folk and craft fairs, and the California State Fair attract large crowds where misconduct can occur. Stick together, have a transportation plan, and avoid isolated or poorly lit spaces.
• Riverfront & Waterfront Activities: Events at Old Sacramento or during River Festival bring crowds to clubs, outdoor concerts, and outdoor gatherings. Keep in groups, stay aware of your surroundings, and plan your route home beforehand.
• Private & Social Gatherings: During winery tours, private parties, and social mixers—especially with alcohol involved—establish boundaries early, avoid excessive drinking, and travel with trusted friends.

Strategies to Maintain Safety in These Settings

• Limit Alcohol & Watch Your Drinks: Always accept drinks directly from trusted sources, and avoid leaving beverages unattended.
• Communicate Boundaries Clearly: State your limits explicitly, and remember that consent is ongoing and can be withdrawn at any time.
• Plan Your Transportation: Use reliable rideshare services or have a designated driver. Share your location with trusted friends and ensure a safe way home before the event.
• Stay Alert & Trust Your Instincts: If you feel uncomfortable or notice someone behaving inappropriately, remove yourself from the situation immediately, and seek help from event staff, security, or nearby friends.

Local Resources & Support for Survivors

Sacramento Law Enforcement & Victim Services

Sacramento County DA’s Office Confidential Victim Advocacy: Offers crisis intervention, legal guidance, and assistance throughout the criminal justice process.
Website: https://saccounty.gov/

Mental Health & Trauma Recovery Services

Sacramento County Behavioral Health: Provides trauma-informed mental health services and healing support.
Phone: (916) 875-1234
Website: https://dhs.saccounty.net/

Community & Legal Resources

• Legal Aid Society of Sacramento: Offers free or low-cost legal assistance for employment and civil rights violations, including harassment.
• Sacramento Rape Crisis Center: Confidential crisis intervention, ongoing support groups, and advocacy. Hotline: (916) 731-4100.
• Sacramento Women’s Empowerment Center: Provides legal resources, peer support, and trauma recovery programs.
• State & Local Agencies: The California Department of Fair Employment & Housing and the Civil Rights Department handle workplace and community misconduct claims.

Your Voice Can Incite Change

Addressing misconduct requires courage and community action.

Your step to report and seek justice can empower others and influence local culture—fostering a safer, more accountable Sacramento.

How We Support You

• Confidential, Compassionate Listening: Your story will be heard with care, privacy preserved, in a supportive environment.
• Case Building & Evidence Support: We assist in gathering emails, witness statements, policies, and incident reports to proceed confidently.
• Legal Strategies Tailored to Your Goals: Whether pursuing internal procedures, filing with agencies, or court action, we craft a plan designed for your best outcome.
• Discreet Negotiation & Courtroom Advocacy: We manage all negotiations and advocacy activities professionally, always putting your wishes first.

Advocacy & Systemic Change

Beyond individual justice, we aim to influence workplace practices, community policies, and local norms—driving lasting change to prevent future misconduct and promote a culture of safety, transparency, and respect across Sacramento’s workplaces and communities.

Our Experience & Commitment to Sacramento’s Survivors

While respecting your privacy, we have helped many residents, workers, community leaders, and public servants confront systemic misconduct. Our goal remains to achieve outcomes that foster healing, accountability, and structural change—strengthening Sacramento’s integrity and making it a safer place for all.

How We Approach Your Case

1. Confidential & Compassionate Intake:
   We create a safe, supportive environment for you to share your experience and define your goals.
2. Evidence Collection & Case Evaluation:
   We help gather and preserve emails, witness statements, policies, and relevant incident records to build a credible, powerful case.
3. Personalized Legal Plan:
   Whether you pursue internal complaint processes, file with city or state agencies, or take legal action in court, we develop a strategy aligned with your priorities.
4. Negotiations & Litigation:
   We advocate discreetly with organizational or government entities to seek fair resolutions, and we prepare for vigorous courtroom representation if necessary.
5. Promoting Cultural & Policy Reform:
   Beyond your case, we work to implement community and organizational policies that prevent future misconduct and promote respectful workplaces.

Why Choose Scott Herndon & Our Team?

• Deep expertise in systemic and high-profile cases involving government agencies, healthcare institutions, nonprofits, and public organizations.
• Trusted confidentiality and discretion: We handle sensitive situations with professionalism and integrity.
• Strong community ties & academic insight: Scott Herndon’s background as a Stanford professor enriches our culturally aware, morally driven advocacy rooted in local knowledge.
• Dedicated to broader change: We actively support efforts to improve policies, increase accountability, and foster community safety.

Take Action Today

If you are a Sacramento resident or professional who has experienced sexual assault or harassment—particularly involving leadership, officials, or influential organizations—you’re not alone. Contact us for a free, confidential consultation. We will listen, guide, and stand with you as you pursue justice and community change.