Victims Rights
Victims’ Rights
Victims/survivors of sexual assault and interpersonal violence have the right to:
- Be treated with respect and dignity.
- This means you can refuse to answer any questions about the sexual assault, your sexual orientation, your sexual history, your medical history (including HIV status), and your mental health history.
- Decide whether or not you want the police to investigate the assault.
- Not be judged based on your race, age, class, gender, or sexual orientation.
- Have a sexual assault counselor/advocate accompany you to medical, law enforcement, and legal proceedings.
- Request that someone you are comfortable with stay with you in the examination room.
- Ask questions and get answers regarding any tests, exams, medications, treatments, or police reports.
- Be considered a victim/survivor of sexual assault, regardless of the offender’s relationship to you.
As a victim/survivor of sexual assault or interpersonal violence, some individuals may feel some of the following:
- Anger
- Fear
- Guilt
- Loss of control
- Powerlessness
- Embarrassment
- Depression
- Denial
- Shame
- Disbelief
- Confusion
- Isolation
These feelings are completely natural, and every victim/survivor of sexual assault and interpersonal violence responds differently.
Links
Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU)
Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Assault and Intimate Partner Violence Policy (Opens new window)
Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities
Sexual Harassment Prevention Policy and Complaint Procedure