The latest statistics on sexual assault state that there is a sexual assault committed in America every 73 seconds. And while this number is staggeringly high, it is only an estimate, as most cases of sexual assault go unreported. While much of this has to do with this stigma that goes with being assaulted, it is still important to talk about how to get sexual abuse help, if you want or need it.
Because there are actions you can take and you don’t have to do it alone. There are plenty of resources and steps you can take to regain control of your life and help make sure you get justice for your assault.
Make Sure You Are Safe
This is the most important first step, getting and staying someplace safe if you can. This may be a trusted friend’s house or it may be a family member’s house. If neither of these is an option, contact your local rape center.
They have trained staff and suggestions on places you can go to, including safe houses, to make sure you aren’t alone and are safe during the first few hours after your attack. They can also walk you through the next steps to take and help you think clearly.
They can also provide you with a list of professionals who provide sexual abuse help in terms of counseling and legal services.
Consider Going to the Hospital
Getting a rape kit done, even if you aren’t sure you are going to press charges, is extremely important and should be done as soon as possible after the rape. Not only can it be a useful resource to have on hand if you do decide to seek legal recourse later, but you may also need to be treated for any injuries you sustained during the attack.
Somethings to be aware of before you go if you have changed your clothes, make sure you bag and take the ones you were wearing when the attack happened, as well as any other evidence you may have. Also, don’t shower or bathe if at all possible. This may be your first instinct, as you may want to wash the experience off, you could wash away any potential DNA that could help your case.
It is important to note, that unless you are a minor, pressing charges is up to the victim. That said, in most states, it is required by law for them to report any sort of crime committed against anyone under the age of 18. However, even though the hospital staff has to report it, that doesn’t mean the patient or their parents have to speak to law enforcement.
Going to the Police
For some people, reporting a rape is not an issue. For others, they may not be so sure. This is especially true if the assault was committed by someone the victim knows and has a relationship with.
So, it is important to know and really understand what happens when you go to the police.
Most larger police departments have units that specifically focus on sexual assault cases. These officers are trained on how to interact with victims in a way that ensures they get helpful statements while doing their best to not traumatize victims any further.
Sometimes, they will take the statement and then work the case with little interaction with the victim. Other times, there will be regular and ongoing contact. It really depends on the severity of the case and how much additional information is needed.
What to Expect From a Trial
While most criminal cases end in a plea bargain, some do end up going to trial, and if that is the case, knowing and understanding what your rights are can help to keep you safe and sane during the trial.
On top of having the right to attend the criminal proceedings, victims also have a right to not be harassed or intimidated during and after the trial. So, if you are experiencing either of these, reach out to the officers handling your case and report what is happening.
Also, make sure you hand over any evidence you have of harassment including voice mails, texts, emails, photos of being followed, etc.
You will also be prepped for your testimony by the DA. They will go over any questions they plan on asking you during direct examination. They will also help get you ready for anything the prosecution is going to ask to make sure you aren’t blindsided and are ready for it.
Victim’s Compensation
On top of criminal proceedings, many states allow victims to seek what is known as victim’s compensation for any lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering. So, if you decide file civil sexual abuse lawsuits, there are some things to be aware of.
First, you need to hire a lawyer show specializes in sexual abuse suits. They will be the best equipped to handle the ins and outs of what is required of them. Next, you will need to remember that a civil suit isn’t the same as criminal proceedings. So, even if you pressed charges and got a not guilty verdict, you can still get a favorable outcome in civil court.
That said, in most states, you can’t just file a civil suit. You will have needed to press charges and cooperated with law enforcement before you head to civil court. This demonstrates there is enough evidence for your case.
Make Sure You Get Sexual Abuse Help
No matter what legal course of action you take, it is important to get sexual abuse help so you can start healing and getting back to “normal” as quickly as possible. So, be sure you get in touch with crisis centers and victims’ rights groups to learn about your options.
For more legal insights, check out the rest of our blog.
