San Francisco Support & Justice for Sexual Assault Survivors

Empowering Residents and Workers to Reclaim Their Lives and Build Safer Communities

San Francisco is a city celebrated for its innovation, diversity, and vibrant cultural scene. Yet, beneath its progressive reputation, instances of sexual misconduct—often involving power imbalances, social pressures, and high-profile figures—continue to threaten the safety and dignity of its residents. If you’ve experienced sexual assault or harassment, know that you are not alone. You deserve compassionate legal guidance, expert advocacy, and pathways to healing.

Led by Scott Herndon—former Stanford faculty and advocate—we dedicate ourselves to supporting survivors across San Francisco’s multi-faceted sectors—public service, tech, nightlife, and community spaces alike. Our commitment: to listen with empathy, act with integrity, and pursue justice on your terms.

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

Understanding the Local Landscape: Challenges & Trends in SF

Key Data & Concerns

• In 2022, the San Francisco Police Department reported over 300 confirmed sexual assault cases, but experts believe many instances go unreported due to fears of social stigma or retaliation (SF Police Department, 2022).
• The California Department of Justice estimates that nearly 1 in 4 women employed in public agencies, nonprofits, or the tech industry in SF has experienced some form of sexual misconduct—often underreported or concealed (California DOJ, 2020).
• Community concerns highlight that high-profile cases involving city officials, tech executives, and influential community leaders reveal systemic barriers—especially for vulnerable populations and minority groups.
• Nightlife venues such as Midway, Temple SF, or the Great Northern, financial district bars, and private events present opportunities for misconduct, where alcohol and social pressures can increase risk.

Unique Social and Organizational Risks

• Cultural barriers: Fear of social or professional backlash often silences victims, especially in interconnected, high-pressure networks.
• Power imbalances: Corporate executives, public officials, and influential figures may exploit their authority.
• Social spaces: Alcohol-fueled environments like Golden State Warriors or San Francisco Giants games, Outside Lands or Hardly Strictly Bluegrass can be settings where ignorance or misconduct occurs—always exercise caution and awareness.

Resources & Support Systems in San Francisco

San Francisco Police Department Victim Services Division

Confidential crisis support, safety planning, and assistance navigating law enforcement processes.
Website: https://sf.gov/

San Francisco District Attorney’s Office — Victim Services

Provides trauma-informed support, legal advocacy, and criminal justice options for survivors.
Website: https://sfda.org/

San Francisco Women’s Organization & Community Groups

• SF Women’s Resource Center: Trauma-informed counseling, peer support, and community education programs.
  Phone: (415) 863-3857
  Website: https://sfwrc.org/
• San Francisco Rape Crisis Center: 24-hour helpline, ongoing peer support, advocacy, and outreach programs. Hotline: (415) 647-7273.

Legal & Advocacy Support

• Legal Aid at Work: Offers free, accessible legal assistance addressing workplace misconduct, harassment, and discrimination.
• East Bay Trauma Recovery Center: Provides culturally sensitive mental health support tailored for survivors.

Additional Resources

Local advocacy organizations, mental health clinics, and community outreach programs also serve vulnerable populations across the city, helping victims access justice and healing.

How Social Settings & City Life Can Impact Your Safety

Nightlife & Social Venues

• Downtown SF clubs, bars, and nightlife districts: Places like Public Works or DNA Lounge host large events. Always stay with friends, monitor your drinks, and plan your transport home in advance—using trusted ride-shares or public transit.
• Large events & festivals: From the SF Pride Parade to outdoor concerts at Golden Gate Park, these gatherings are fun but also attract predatory behavior. Stay in groups, avoid isolated areas, and be aware of your surroundings.
• Nightlife & dating: Always meet in public, well-lit locations, and communicate boundaries clearly. Trust your instincts—if a situation becomes uncomfortable, remove yourself and seek support immediately.

Campus & Young Adult Activities

• University events, fraternity parties, or student mixers—common sources of social risk—should be approached with caution. Arrive with trusted friends, stay aware of alcohol use, and avoid leaving beverages or wandering alone if intoxicated.
  Make safety plans before attending social or nightlife events, and always have a trusted person to contact in case of emergency.

Your Path to Justice and Healing

You are not alone, and your courage is vital—both for your recovery and for fostering a safer San Francisco:

Our firm provides compassionate, confidential support tailored to your experience. We help you understand your legal rights, build a strong case, and explore all pathways to accountability—whether through criminal proceedings, civil lawsuits, or community advocacy.

How We Support You:

• Trauma-informed, confidential consultation: Your story is respected, and your well-being is our priority.
• Thorough evidence collection: We assist in gathering emails, witness statements, digital communications, and incident reports.
• Personalized legal strategies: We help you navigate internal complaint processes, file with city or state agencies, or proceed to court—always aligned with your goals.
• Strong advocacy and courtroom representation: When necessary, we fight vigorously to protect your rights and secure justice, maintaining your dignity every step.

Promoting lasting change:

Beyond your case, we actively advocate for policy reforms, stronger workplace protections, and community education programs to prevent future misconduct and create a culture of accountability, respect, and safety across San Francisco.

Why Choose Scott Herndon & Our Team?

• Extensive experience handling complex, systemic misconduct cases: We’ve advocated for survivors confronting influential figures, organizations, and systemic barriers.
• Trusted confidentiality and professionalism: Your privacy and safety come first in every case we handle.
• Deep community roots & academic insight: Scott Herndon’s background as a Stanford professor informs our morally grounded, strategic approach rooted in local knowledge.
• Dedicated to community-driven change: We work to strengthen policies, promote transparency, and foster a safer environment for all.

Take Action Today

If you are a resident, student, or community member in San Francisco who has experienced sexual assault or harassment—especially involving influential figures or systemic barriers—you don’t have to face this alone. Contact us now for a free, confidential consultation. We are ready to listen, guide, and support you on your journey toward justice, healing, and community safety.