Advocacy Services Available

There is no right or wrong way to feel following a sexual assault. We are here to assist you as much or as little as you choose.

• We can be present with you at the medical facility, with law enforcement, prosecution, and criminal justice system.

• We can provide information and assistance with filing for Victim’s Compensation, a resource that may be able to financially assist with the costs associated with sexual assault.

• Provide immediate crisis support, follow-up, and help connecting with counseling and support groups.

• Assistance filing a police report or helping you remain anonymous.

• Make referrals to community resources.

• Provide guidance through the steps to keep you safe, including filing for an Order of Protection.

• Education / information regarding sexual assault statistics, definitions, and statutes.

• Advocacy services are available for survivors, family members, friends, and community.

• ADVOCACY SERVICES ARE OFFERED FREE OF CHARGE

Victims’ rights

The right to confer with the prosecution.

The right to be free from intimidation, harassment,and abuse throughout the criminal justice system.

The right to be present at all proceedings where the defendant has the right to be present.

The right to be heard, when relevant, at all critical stages of the criminal process as defined by statute.

The right to be informed of all proceedings and the release, transfer, escape,or recapture of the accused or convicted person.

The right to a speedy trial or disposition and a prompt and final conclusion of the case after the conviction or sentence.

The right to restitution from the offender.

The right to be informed of each of the rights established for victims.

Advocacy

We know this is not your fault. You did not make this happen. We believe you.

The Advocacy Team for Sexual Assault Care is here for you. We support, empower and respect your rights as a survivor of sexual assault.

Sexual Assault is a crime that effects everyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religion or sexual orientation. Every 98 seconds someone in the U.S. is sexually assaulted.

Sexual Assault occurs without a person’s consent or control.

We respect your right to make the decisions that affect you, and will support the decisions that you make. You know yourself best.

If you have been recently raped or you were raped years ago, when you are ready to talk, we are here to listen and support you.

Our only goal is to be here for you. We want to help survivors gain a sense of power and control in their lives.

Please call our 24-Hour Helpline at 423-539-6499

Medical care & evidence collection

When a sexual assault occurs, you may need medical care. Survivors of sexual assault have a right to:

• Choose whether or not to receive a forensic medical exam (rape kit).

• Stop the forensic exam at any time.

• Receive the forensic exam without reporting to law enforcement. Healthcare providers are NOT required to report sexual assaults of adults to law enforcement (T.C.A. 38-1-101)

• Receive a forensic exam free of charge *If you choose to have a forensic exam, please do not shower/bath, brush your teeth, change clothes, or douche before going to the medical facility.

The healthcare provider performing the forensic exam will ask you some questions about the assault and your medical history. During the forensic medical exam, the healthcare provider may also:

• Take blood, urine, saliva, nail, and pubic hair combing samples.

• Place items of clothing in the evidence collection kit (this is only done with your permission).

• Prescribe medications to protect you from certain sexual transmitted infections (STIs). The healthcare provider will explain the various STIs the medications, and recommend any necessary follow-up care.

• Discuss any concerns you may have about pregnancy and provide medically correct information and facts about emergency contraception.

If you or someone has been recently sexually assaulted, go to a safe place and call the 24-Hour Helpline to find the closest facility to you that preforms forensic exams.