NCJ Number
81497
Date Published
Unknown
Length
58 pages
Annotation
This manual explains the rape victim's rights under California law and the services offered by the police, hospitals, district attorneys' offices, courts, and mental health facilities in the State to help her.
Abstract
The booklet is directed primarily to women because they are the main targets of rape. The sections of the California penal code which define rape and punishments for it are outlined. Some of the myths surrounding rape and precautionary measures a woman can take to prevent being raped are discussed. A discussion of the emotional aftermath of rape describes the three stages of the rape crisis syndrome; the mental health services available to rape victims; and the emotional needs of both the victim and the victim's husband, boyfriend, or other significant male. Police procedures are explained, including the initial report and the followup police investigation. Ways the victim can help the police are delineated. A description of medical procedures following a rape focuses on the importance of immediate medical care, the paperwork required before the victim sees the doctor, procedures and tests used during the physical examination, and points to consider before leaving the emergency room. The district attorney's role, municipal court procedures, and superior court procedures are also outlined. The possibility of obtaining compensation through a suit or through the victim compensation available under California's Aid to Victims of Violent Crimes Act is also discussed. A resource section listing addresses and telephone numbers of sources of help, a glossary, and 18 references are provided.