SAVA Center - Pros and Cons

Information about reporting a sexual assault.

Some reasons which prevent people from reporting sexual assault.

Concern about having to retell the experience over and over again.
Fear of not being believed
Fear of being blamed or held accountable for the attack
Fear of going to court and testifying
Fear of being abused by defense attorneys, having credibility attacked.
Fear of having unrelated personal information brought out in court
Prior history with law enforcement.
Going through the humiliation of telling others about the incident may result in nothing being done to the perpetrator.

Many people in our society are uncomfortable with the prospect of dealing with the "system" (law enforcement agencies, courts, etc.). Reasons for this vary somewhat, however some trends can be noted. Ideas about the criminal justice system are often based on unrealistic ideas received via television shows, magazine and newspaper stories, etc. Another component which can influence reports are horror stories about cruel police officers, crooked District Attorneys and ruthless defense attorneys. For many people victimized by crime, calling the authorities is just "asking for trouble."

We cannot tell you everything about criminal justice situations, as each case situation differs. We do encourage you, however, to consider reporting the crime as an option which may benefit you or your community. Reasons to consider reporting a sexual assault.

Identifying sex offenders to the system may result in getting that person off the street or into treatment.
Assistance with counseling and/or medical expenses related to the crime may be available through Crime Victim Compensation.
Standing up for your personal rights is a healthy way to direct anger toward the perpetrator and aids in reclaiming personal power.
Knowing the perpetrator has to answer for the crime may be helpful to the victim/survivor's recovery.

Remember, dealing with the police and the district attorney's can be confusing. Victim Service Providers and Victim Assistants who work for law enforcement agencies and DA's offices are not bound by confidentiality. Things which may be helpful are:

Keep pertinent information all in one place (papers, case numbers, pamphlets, bills, etc.) Place written material about victim rights in this folder, too. (SAVA, rape crisis centers, law enforcement agencies and District Attorney's Offices in Colorado can get this information to you.)
Ask for local resources and referrals in your area such as counselors who have special training in sexual violence or crime-related recovery issues.
Find out the names and phone numbers of victim service providers in the District Attorney's Office who you can reach to assist you with Victim Impact Statements, Crime Victim Compensation, etc. and who can answer your questions about your case and the legal process.

When Crimes are Prosecuted

Be prepared for delays and waiting for court procedures. Bear in mind the perpetrator may have threatened the victim/survivor if the police are involved. If this is the case, the victim/survivor may experience intense anxieties until the case is resolved. Any threats made should be immediately reported to the law enforcement agency and/or the District Attorney's Office.

QUESTIONS TO ASK THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY'S STAFF.

A Victim/Witness Assistant from the District Attorney's Office may be able to assist with this information.

Questions to Ask:

Will I have to appear and testify in court?

When will I have to appear in court?

Can I have support people be in the courtroom with me?

How long will the whole process take?

What are the chances an arrest will be made?

How long will the perpetrator be in jail?

Will the perpetrator be eligible for bond release?

Will I be notified if the perpetrator is released on bond?

If a plea bargain is offered, will I be notified?

Will I meet with an attorney prior to them making decisions about my case