What To Do If You Have Been The Victim Of A Sexual Assault
Disclaimer: The content of this blog post is intended for informational purposes and should not be considered legal or medical advice. If you or someone you know is dealing with sexual assault, consult professionals for personalized advice.
If you’ve been the victim of a sexual assault, you may feel overwhelmed, scared, and unsure of what to do next. All of that is perfectly normal. At Faneuf Law Group, we can help you take the right legal steps to foster recovery and seek justice.
Immediate Actions
Get to safety. If you’ve just been assaulted, remove yourself from any immediate danger and find a secure place--ideally somewhere well-lit with many people around.
Seek medical attention. Whether or not you plan on reporting the assault, get medical care as soon as possible. Medical professionals can not only treat any injuries you may have but also provide a sexual assault forensic exam to collect evidence of the assault.
Preserve evidence. Put the clothes you were wearing during the assault into a sealed bag to preserve any forensic evidence. Before you shower, seek medical attention to document and preserve any forensic evidence on the body.
Report to authorities. Contacting police can be difficult, but it is the only way to bring a perpetrator to justice. You generally have the best chance of obtaining justice if you report the crime immediately. To report the assault, you can physically go to your local police station, call their non-emergency number, or, if you’re still in immediate danger, you can call 911. Consider having someone you trust with you when you make the report for emotional support.
Coping with Emotional and Psychological Distress
The most important thing after an assault is taking care of yourself. Once you’re out of danger, consider seeking out a loved one. For many, even simply being in the presence of someone trusted is calming. If you need further support, which is perfectly normal, you can seek professional counseling. Many therapists can help with incidents like this (you can find therapists in your area through Psychology Today), but you can also go to local resources, like the Rape Crisis Center of Greater Lowell, for specialized help. Massachusetts lists all resources for sexual assault survivors here.
Legal Steps
Consult a sexual assault attorney. At Faneuf Law Group, we offer expert legal consultation for sexual assault victims, helping you understand your rights and the legal process ahead.
Prepare documentation. Collect all relevant medical records, police reports, or other documentation that supports your case. One of our attorneys can also assist with this.
Civil recovery options. You may be entitled to compensation through a settlement or civil lawsuit on top of any criminal charges brought to the perpetrator. Our attorneys will assess this with you concerning your specific case.
The road to justice and recovery after a sexual assault can be long and arduous, but you don’t have to walk alone. Rely on the resources available, and trust Faneuf Law Group to give you accurate legal advice and services suited to your needs. Contact us today for a free consultation.