If you have survived a sexual assault, you have a number of rights. Most importantly you have the right to be treated with dignity, respect, courtesy and sensitivity throughout your recovery period, including during the criminal justice process.
Confidentiality. When you work with an advocate at the Center for a Non Violent Community, anything you disclose is confidential and cannot be disclosed to anyone without your written consent.
Choice. You have a choice on whether you will report to law enforcement , talk with investigators, prosecutors, defense attorneys, schedule an interview or add to your statement.
Right to an Advocate and/or support person of your choice during a medical-legal exam, interviews with law enforcement or prosecutors, defenders, court hearings, and any follow-up medical exams.
Protection of your identity. Newspapers and other media must have your permission to use your name as a survivor of a sexual assault. You have the right to use a pseudonym such as ‘Jane Doe’ when you agree to a medical-legal exam.
Financial compensation. If you made a report to law enforcement, you may be eligible for reimbursement for medical services, counseling and loss of wages relating to the assault through the California Victim Compensation Board.
Freedom from harassment from the suspect and the suspect’s friends, agents, or attorneys. In addition, you can refuse to do phone interviews with investigators, law enforcement officers or lawyers if you cannot be sure of who is on the other end of the phone line.
Consideration during the legal process. You have the right to be informed of the progress of the case against the suspect and the right to submit a victim impact statement during sentencing and parole decisions.
You have the right to ask questions at any time.
