The World Health Organization has identified sexual abuse as a “serious public health and human rights problem.” It happens daily and at an alarming rate across demographics, with one American being sexually assaulted every 73 seconds. While nobody wishes for abuse to happen, being equipped with the knowledge on how to respond to abuse may come in handy.
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted:
- Go to a safe place.
- Contact someone you trust.
- Contact a rape crisis hotline in Illinois.
- Visit your local Emergency Department for possible injuries.
- Submit to a medical examination to collect evidence (also known as a rape kit).
- Contact the police to report the assault.
A typical treatment will include the following:
- Medical forensic services for injuries;
- Emergency contraceptives;
- Rape crisis counseling.
Note that victims and survivors aged 13 years old and above may consent to the medical forensic services, including consent to release the information for possible criminal investigation. Victims and survivors under 13, however, may consent to the medical evaluation after an assault but will require the consent of a parent, guardian, or the Department of Family and Child Services to release the information to the authorities for investigation.
For queries or concerns, know the contact information of involved institutions under the SASETA and get in touch with them. The Illinois Sexual Harassment Discrimination Helpline provides contact information of organizations and institutions providing information, healthcare, and employment assistance for victims and survivors. Resilience, a non-profit organization in Illinois that supports SV victims and survivors, offers a range of programs and services.
Sexual abuse is never an easy topic to discuss. But, if you or someone you know has been a victim, know that there will always be help available. If and when you decide to explore your legal options, rest assured that our attorneys here at America’s Consumer Lawyer will help be committed to cultivating a safe and professional environment.
We see you as a person, not just a client – and that makes us better at what we do. We listen. We learn your story. And, as we help you get the money you deserve, we go above and beyond in a way most law firms never could and never would. Because we’re not just lawyers. And you’re not just a client. We’re friends, neighbors, family. We’re all people and here at America’s Consumer Lawyer, we put people first.
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