Usually, after sexual abuse people tend to hide but it is very important to contact a sexual assault lawyer soon after it. Victims usually need some time about what has happened to them and to understand and come to terms with having been sexually attacked. Sexual assault victims are never at fault.
However, sexual assault offenders frequently trick victims into believing that they are at fault for the incident; as a result, many victims are scared to disclose the crime for a very long time or never. A fear of reprisals or a lack of faith in the system may also prevent them from reporting to the criminal justice system.
But hiring a lawyer would be a great decision. You have nothing to lose because most sexual assault attorneys will provide you with a free consultation. They will review the victim’s account while they are seated. They will go through the proof and the facts of the alleged sexual assault charges you want to press.
What Is Considered Sexual Assault?
Given the stigma attached to sexual assault, it is important to first comprehend what constitutes sexual assault. Unfortunately, there are many ways that this kind of attack can occur. When thinking about a sexual assault, it’s critical to keep in mind that the victim is never at fault and that an attack happened if force or coercion was used and the activities were non-consensual, meaning they were not sought or agreed to. It can include many types such as:
attempted rape
- Fondling
- Unwanted sexual contact or touching
- Forcing victims to perform sexual acts
- Sexual harassment
- Solicitation of minors
- The possession of child pornography
What to Do When Been Sexually Assaulted?
The first thing you should do is report as soon as possible. Make a call to the municipal or city police as soon as possible. This could need a visit to the hospital, where police will likely interrogate you and provide a rape kit while also trying to grasp your version of events and aiding in the investigation. A police officer or detective with experience investigating crimes should ideally be given the case. They need to gather information swiftly and send it to the prosecutor.
The prosecuting attorney will then determine whether their evidence is sufficient to proceed with criminal prosecution. But keep in mind that not all instances of rape and sexual assault end in criminal charges. The decision to pursue a sexual assault or rape case is complicated by several different circumstances. You might be able to sue your attackers in civil court to recover financial compensation for what happened to you. Another best way to learn more about it is to join rallies and campaigns that usually take place during sexual assault awareness month.
The most important thing is to get in touch with a sexual assault or rape victim attorney. Acting immediately is essential because, unlike criminal charges, civil actions are subject to a statute of limitations that varies from case to case.
What To Say To A Sexual Assault Survivor?
When a friend or family member discloses that they have been sexually assaulted, it can be difficult to know what to say. It can be very challenging for a survivor to reveal to someone they care about, therefore it is necessary to be as encouraging and non-judgmental as you can. Sometimes support means offering resources but often listening is the best way to support a victim.
Let them know that it wasn’t their fault and that they couldn’t have done anything better. Be their support system, believe in whatever they say, and be empathetic towards them.
There is no particular schedule when it comes to recovering from sexual abuse. The following suggestions will help you demonstrate your ongoing support if someone confided in you enough to tell you about the situation.
Check On Them from Time to Time:
Even if the event happened a long time ago the anguish may still be there. Remind the survivor that you still value their well-being and respect their account by following up with them.
Ask About Their Health:
Check on them and their health. Most survivors suffer from a post-trauma stress disorder and if it is left untreated it can be fatal.
What Does the Sexual Assault Survivor Symbol Mean?
Many survivors take the help of tattoos to cover their scars, and some even have them as a constant reminder that they have survived this horrific incident. The tattoo of a teal ribbon has gained recognition all over the world as a sexual assault awareness sign. Many survivors have opted to either include the teal ribbon as part of their tattoo or wear it alone.
Others have only included the color teal in their artwork as a more individualized reminder of the obstacles they have conquered. A teal ribbon is a potent tool for resistance against sexual assault no matter how you choose to use it.
