A Model for Improving Handling of Sexual Assault Cases at Universities

Vestry Laight provided expert assistance in formulating a way forward for University of Michigan following a landmark class action sexual abuse case against the university for its mishandling of sexual abuse allegations. A key part of the settlement included creating a Coordinated Community Response Team, a mechanism that brings all stakeholders to the table (such as advocates, nurses, police, prosecutors, university administrators) to address gaps in the system and formulate plans to improve responses to sexual assault, a practice that leads to better outcomes and one the judge said she hopes is emulated around the country.