Sexual Assault, Sexual Violence

Know Your Rights

Rights of Survivors

Survivors of sexual assault have the right to make a report to the police if they choose to do so. They also have the right to get a sexual assault exam even if they are not going to be making a report to the police. During the exam, survivors have the right to have a trained advocate present. The Texas Constitution lists rights of crime victims under Article 1, Section 30. Additional rights are listed under Article 56A.052 related to survivors of sexual assault, indecent assault, stalking, and trafficking.

Protective Orders

Protective orders are issued by a court to protect you and your children from sexual violence, stalking, or other forms of abuse. These orders can keep the abuser from contacting you, coming within a certain distance of you or your place of employment, and can result in penalties when violated by the abuser. Protective orders can be enforced by the police. A sexual assault protective order can be issued for a lifetime. An abuser does not need to be criminally charged in order for the survivor to obtain a protective order.

Victim Compensation

There is a program in Texas that provides financial assistance to eligible victims of sexual assault called the Crime Victims’ Compensation program, which is administered by the Texas Office of the Attorney General. This program can help survivors cover medical expenses and counseling as well as other related costs.

Confidentiality

Texas law protects the privacy of sexual assault survivors. All evidence collected during a hospital exam will be securely stored and released only with the survivor’s written consent. Information about a survivor’s visit to a hospital and the treatment received is also confidential. Survivors have the right to request that their contact information be excluded from the court’s file.

Your Legal Options

Depending on your situation, our attorneys can help you understand your rights and options. Trained attorneys attend hearings or file legal action on behalf of clients who have been accepted for full representation. Trauma-informed staff assist survivors throughout the process.

We can assist with:

• Protective orders where there has been physical abuse or threat of violence
• Protective orders for survivors of sexual assault or stalking
• Barriers to housing and employment
• Family matters including divorce, custody, and child support
• Immigration matters related to assault such as U Visas and T Visas
• Resources for survivors through our trained social work team

Additional Resources

Sexual Assault Protective Orders in Texas
Protection from Violence or Abuse
Sexual Assault Safety Planning
Texas Council on Family Violence
Texas Association Against Sexual Assault
Crime Victims’ Compensation (CVC) Program
Address Confidentiality Program
New Social Security Numbers for Domestic Violence Survivors
Texas Crime Victims’ Rights