If you or someone else is in danger, call your local emergency number right now. If you’re not safe to call, consider a trusted crisis hotline or a nearby safe place. Your safety comes first.

No. Support, medical care, therapy, and many legal options may be available whether or not you report. Reporting is your choice and can be made later in many situations.

Often yes. In many areas you can receive a medical exam and evidence collection (sometimes called a “rape kit”) without filing an immediate police report. Ask about anonymous or “Jane/John Doe” options where available.

As soon as you’re able. You can be treated for injuries, STIs, or pregnancy prevention. Evidence collection has time limits that vary by location; sooner is usually better, but care is still valuable even if time has passed.

Options may include protective orders, criminal reporting, civil claims for damages, campus Title IX processes, workplace complaints, or church/organizational reporting. Which paths fit depends on your state, timing, and goals. An attorney or advocate can explain timelines and next steps.

Help may still be available. Some survivors may qualify for protections (e.g., certain visas) or confidential reporting channels. Speak with a trauma-informed immigration or victims’ rights attorney before sharing details publicly.

Use a safe device, private browsing, and strong passcodes. Consider turning off shared location, changing important passwords, and avoiding shared cloud accounts. If tech safety is a concern, use a trusted device outside your home.

Initial consultations in this area are often free. Many civil attorneys work on contingency (they’re paid only if you recover money). You should receive a clear explanation of fees before you agree to anything.

Yes. Confusion, memory gaps, or mixed feelings are common after trauma. You deserve support whether you’re certain or not. A counselor or advocate can help you process and consider next steps—no pressure.

Listen, believe them, and avoid pressing for details. Ask how you can help, offer options (medical care, advocacy, legal info), and respect their choices. Check in again later; consistency builds trust.

It can involve spiritual betrayal, power dynamics, and institutional responses. You can seek both survivor-centered care and accountability (internal reports, civil/criminal paths). Independent advice helps separate faith from institutions and focus on your safety.

You can still seek support. Civil and criminal time limits (statutes of limitation) vary by state and situation; some have extended “reviver” windows. An attorney can quickly assess timelines and options.

Hotlines and many advocacy services allow anonymous contact. Legal processes have different rules; an attorney can explain where your name might appear and how to maximize privacy.

Look for clinicians trained in EMDR, CBT, or somatic therapies with experience in sexual trauma. Ask about their approach, confidentiality, and first-visit goals. It’s okay to try a few to find a good fit.

We’ll review your safe contact preferences, match you with an experienced, survivor-sensitive attorney in your state, and offer a free, no-obligation consult. You decide if and when to move forward.