FOR VICTIMS AND SURVIVORS

10 IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER:

Following is a list of important things to remember if you have been a victim of rape or sexual assault.
  1. Remember that you are not to blame. The person who assaulted you is at fault.
  2. It is important to seek medical attention for possible injuries and to receive testing for sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy.
  3. You have the right to choose whether or not to make a report to police.
  4. Medical care may be paid for by the state if you have reported to the police and seek care within 48 hours of the rape.
  5. You may be eligible for Crime Victim's Reparations to help you with medical expenses and counseling.
  6. You have the choice to pursue the option of prosecution. Ultimately, the prosecutor makes the final decision about whether or not to prosecute.
  7. Rape is a crime which has temporarily taken away a person's right to choose. Therefore, it is important to make your own choices about how best to proceed following a rape. Your ORCC advocate is there to be an objective listener so that you will make the best choices.
  8. It may be helpful to seek professional counseling to help you begin the healing process from the trauma of rape. Although many people simply want to forget about the assault and move on with their lives, they sometimes find that their unresolved feelings are causing them difficulties. Talking about the rape and getting counseling now will help with the healing process.
  9. It is never too late to talk about a past rape and begin healing.
  10. The ORCC crisis hotline is answered 24-hours a day to assist you with support, information, and referrals. An advocate can accompany you to the hospital, law enforcement agencies, court, and related appointments or just provide support over the phone.
ALL SERVICES PROVIDED BY ORCC ARE CONFIDENTIAL AND FREE OF CHARGE