What Is An Advocate?

Did you know, as a survivor of sexual assault, you have a legal right to a Sexual Assault Victim’s Advocate?

When a survivor reports a sexual assault to police, the agency
must immediately notify the local rape crisis center and will
transport the survivor to and from the hospital and inform them
about of their right to have a sexual assault victim advocate
accompany him or her for any services at the hospital and at
subsequent law enforcement interviews. (Pen. Code §§ 264.2 and
679.04.) Before a medical examination begins the survivor must
be notified of the right to have present a certified sexual assault
counselor and one other support person chosen by the survivor.
(Penal Code § 264.2)

As California Certified Rape Crisis Counselors, our Sexual Assault Victim’s Advocates are well versed in both the legal aspect of reporting an assault, as well as the emotional effects making a report can have on a survivor. Advocates are trained to support and empower all clients by informing them of their rights as a victim of sexual violence, talking through various options available to the survivor, keeping the survivor informed of the next steps and the criminal justice process, and providing emotional support and resources to survivors and their loved ones during an extremely difficult time. Verity’s goal is to empower survivors with compassion, education, and emotional support. Whatever you decide, we will support you.