Victim Rights & Options


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Per Florida Statute 90.5035 a victim of sexual violence who consults a sexual assault counselor at a rape crisis center has the right to confidentiality of information shared with the counselor.

FLORIDA STATUTE §943.326: Sexual offense evidence kits (SAKs) collected during a law enforcement investigation must be submitted to the laboratory within 30 days after receipt by the law enforcement agency, or within 30 days of a request being made by the victim or their representative.  The request can be made to law enforcement or the medical provider.

  • No one except the victim can compel the sexual assault counselor/advocate to reveal information about their communications. Only the victim can waive the privilege, and this must be done in writing.
  • If rape victims are not sure whether to report to law enforcement, advocates will assist them through their decision making process, respecting whatever choices are made.

Sexual Battery: Victim Rights and Options

A victim of sexual assault has a right to receive a forensic exam and receive services from Palm Beach County Victim Services & Certified Rape Crisis Center and will receive followup services from a certified victim advocate. Forensic exams are provided free of charge. In Palm Beach County exams typically take place at the Butterfly House or your local area hospitals. Palm Beach County Victim Services & Certified Rape Crisis Center provides free advocacy for victims, and support for their families and friends. Confidential services are provided regardless of the victim’s decision to report to law enforcement.

Sexual Battery: Victim Rights and Options

A victim of sexual assault has a right to receive a forensic exam and receive services from Palm Beach County Victim Services & Certified Rape Crisis Center and will receive followup services from a certified victim advocate. Forensic exams are provided free of charge. In Palm Beach County exams typically take place at the Butterfly House or your local area hospitals. Palm Beach County Victim Services & Certified Rape Crisis Center provides free advocacy for victims, and support for their families and friends. Confidential services are provided regardless of the victim’s decision to report to law enforcement. 

Rights Options 

Victims Right Statute

Florida Statute 960 provides guidelines for fair treatment and specific rights for victims in the criminal justice system. Some of these include the following:

  • Office of Attorney General Crime Victim Compensation, when applicable;
  • To be informed, present, and heard, when relevant, at all crucial stages of a criminal or juvenile proceeding, to the extent that right does not interfere with the Constitutional rights of the accused;
  • To be provided information concerning services available including Victim Compensation, community treatment programs, crisis intervention services, counseling and social services;
  • To a prompt and timely disposition of the case, to the extent that this right does not interfere with the Constitutional rights of the accused;
  • To have your property returned to you as soon as possible after the investigation and/or prosecution is completed, unless there is a compelling reason for its retention;
  • Have a Victim Advocate from a Certified Rape Crisis Center present during depositions of the victim;
  • Request, for specific crimes, an exemption prohibiting the disclosure of information to the public which reveals your identification.

 

 

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