Next Steps
Deciding what comes next can be really overwhelming. It is important to know that there isn't one right way to proceed. With these options, and others, you can do as many, or as few, as you want. You are completely in control.
Talking to others
Who can I tell?
If you are unsure of who you can talk to, asking yourself these questions may be helpful.
Is this someone I am comfortable around?
Is this someone who is calm in stressful situations?
Does this person make me feel supported and understood?
Will this person believe me?
If you can't think of anyone safe to talk to, know that you are not alone. Hotlines like DARCC's can be a good way to each out.
What do I say?
Survivors often get asked a lot of questions when they reach out, such as:
Is this happening now? If not, when did it happen?
Where did it happen?
Do you know who it was?
Do you need to go to the hospital?
Have you told anyone else?
Answering these questions can be hard. You may not remember every detail, or may not feel ready to talk about everything just yet. It is important to do what feels right for you, in your own time.
Your safety and comfort is the priority.
Get a Sexual Assault Exam
A sexual assault forensic (or SANE) exam, is a medical exam done for both evaluation and treatment. The purpose of the exam is to assess for injuries and attempt to collect any forensic evidence available.
Medical Care
During this portion of the exam:
Injuries are identified and treated.
Medicine to prevent STD's is available.
Medicine to prevent pregnancy is available.
Comprehensive incident and medical history is collected.
Evidence Collection
During this portion of the exam:
Swabs for DNA collection may be taken.
Clothing may be collected.
Photographs of any injuries may be taken.
A pelvic exam may be administered.
Important Notes:
SANE exams must be completed within 120 hours of the incident.
You do not have to report to law enforcement to receive a SANE exam.
Your evidence is saved for 5 years, so if you decide to report later, you can.
You can withhold consent from any aspect of the SANE process.
The process may look different for anyone under the age of 18.
If you have any questions on how this may apply to you, please call DARCC’s 24/7 hotline to speak with an advocate.
Report to Law Enforcement
What Happens When I Report?
The criminal justice process may be overwhelming and confusing. Your legal journey may contain some of the steps listed below. Please contact our 24/7 hotline to speak with an advocate regarding questions you may have about the process and to receive support.
Report to Law Enforcement
You may report at the hospital, at your local police department, or call 9-1-1.
Investigation
A detective will be assigned and will begin to gather evidence for the case. One of the three following outcomes may happen: Arrest, No Arrest, or Referral to Prosecution.
Grand Jury
The jurors are presented the case decide to either: True Bill or No Bill the case.
District Attorney’s Office
Prosecution reviews the case and determines whether or not there is enough evidence to move forward. If yes, the case moves on.
Criminal Justice Process
There are several hearings and outcomes that can occur throughout the process such as :
Plea Agreements, Trial, Dismissal of case, or Acquittal.
Your Rights
Regardless of what you choose to do, we want you to know that you have rights, both at the hospital and while working with law enforcement.
Survivors Have the Right To:
Make the decision to file a police report
Refuse a lie detector
Use a pseudonym and have her or his name, address and phone number kept out of court files relating to their case.
Have her or his attacker tested for HIV and receive notice of the test results after indictment.
Have her or his safety considered when bail is set.
Be notified of all legal proceedings, including parole proceedings, after making a written request for notification.
A private waiting area, separate from other witnesses, before testifying in court.
Write a victim impact statement and have the statement considered during punishment and parole proceedings.
Upon meeting certain eligibility requirements, maintain a confidential address through the Texas Address Confidentiality Program.
Sensitive and skilled treatment in Texas emergency rooms.
Reimbursement, through the Crime Victims’ Compensation (CVC) Program, for medical costs.
Advocacy from a local advocacy organization.
For a comprehensive list of your rights through the legal process, you can visit the Texas Department of Criminal Justice's website for more information at: