A National Protocol for Sexual Assault Medical Forensic Examinations Adult/Adolescents
"This document is intended to improve the criminal justice system’s response to victims of sexual assault and the sexual assault forensic examination process."
A Passport to Safety: Full Faith and Credit, A Judge's Guide
This publication is also known as "Passport to Safety" and is designed to facilitate the efforts of states, tribes, and territories to implement Full Faith & Credit Provisions of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Since its initial printing in 1999, VAWA has been amended twice - once in 2000 and again in 2005. This version reflects the 2005 amendments and expands "Passport to Safety" from its original issuing and enforcing benchcards to include two new subject-area cards: one on firearms and one on custody, visitation, and support provisions within protection orders.
Addressing Domestic Violence & Sexual Violence Against Asian & Pacific Islander Women: Strengthening Advocacy, Changing Communities
"This manual presents training curricula for a range of issues affecting Asian and Pacific Islander battered women, advocates, and communities."
Addressing Domestic Violence in Indian Country
This manual examines the reasons behind the presence of domestic and sexual violence in Native communities by looking at its historical origins and how to address it in the community.
Annual Report on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Domestic Violence in 2000 (PDF)
This report describes incidents of domestic violence in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community that were reported during the year 2000 to community-based anti-violence organizations in nine regions throughout the U.S.
Annual Report on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Domestic Violence in 1998
The purpose of this report is to investigate the following research questions and to summarize findings: 1) How prevalent is domestic violence among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people? 2) Do state statutes permit victims of same-sex domestic violence to obtain domestic violence protective orders? Footnotes are downloadable in Microsoft Word as well.
Assessing Justice System Response To Violence Against Women: A Tool for Law Enforcement, Prosecution, and Courts
This document contains an assessment tool for jurisdictions to use in developing effective responses by law enforcement, prosecution, and the courts.
Assessing Justice System Response To Violence Against Women
This is the second installment on this website from the STOP-TA Project's Promising Practices Initiative. The document contains profiles of 17 non-profit victim advocacy organizations around the nation. The profiles highlight innovative outreach and service delivery strategies that address the needs of victims of sexual assault, stalking and domestic violence.
Assistive Technology (PDF)
This Tip Sheet on Assistive Technologywas developed to help agencies and communities respond effectively to the ways that technology impacts victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual violence and stalking. The document looks at how the technology works, how agencies and partnerships are using it, the benefits and risks, and things to consider when using Assistive Technology. Assistive Technology is an umbrella term that includes any device, equipment, product, or service that: increases, maintains, or improves access; decreases or removes systemic barriers; and supports accessibility, autonomy, and self‐determination for individuals with disabilities or who are Deaf.
Balancing Obligations: Serving Teen Victims and Mandated Reporting of Statutory Rape
This issue brief addresses the importance of preserving confidentiality while working with teen victims of abuse, at the same time fulfilling the service provider's legal duties.
Best Practices For Lawyers Assisting Pro Se Victims of Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking With Civil Protection Cases (PDF)
These guidelines are intended to reflect the best national practices that may be used by civil lawyers who provide no-cost assistance to pro se victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking in civil protection order cases. This manual will assist practitioners in planning and implementing a Pro Se Project (PSP) in a collaborative, cost-effective, and ethical manner. Through the use of a PSP, lawyers can provide legal guidance to victims who cannot, or will not, obtain full legal representation, thus mitigating the unmet legal needs of victims of violence in the community. Effective PSP legal services will build public confidence in a just and fair legal system by working to promote safety for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking, and accountability for abusers.
Cloud Computing
This Tip Sheet on Cloud Computing was developed to help agencies and communities respond effectively to the ways that technology impacts victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual violence and stalking. The document looks at how the cloud computing works, how agencies and partnerships are using it, benefits and risks, and things to consider when using Cloud Computing.
Community Policing to Prevent Violence Against Women
This document is a training manual provided by PERF to advocates, police, social service providers, and other violence-against-women professionals. It is a resource guide for community-policing approaches to reducing and preventing violence-against-women.
Comprehensive Issue Spotting: A Tool for Civil Attorneys Representing Victims of Domestic & Dating Violence, Sexual Assault & Stalking
This is a client-centered tool for civil attorneys new to representing victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking to provide comprehensive representation and advocacy for their clients. This tool is not an intake sheet or a broad referral list, but should be used in conjunction with those items to facilitate effective and holistic client centered representation. This tool does not comprehensively address the specific needs of tribal communities.
Computers and Networks (PDF)
This Tip Sheet on Computers and Networks was developed to help agencies and communities respond effectively to the ways that technology impacts victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual violence and stalking. The document looks at how the technology works, how agencies and partnerships are using it, benefits and risks, and things to consider when using Computers and Networks.
Conozca sus derechos: Acoso sexual y vivienda
¿Ha sufrido manoseo no deseado, avances sexuales no deseados, bromas, comentarios o gestos sexuales en la vivienda de alquiler? Las leyes de vivienda justa pueden ayudarlo.
Creative Civil Remedies Against Non-Indian Offenders in Indian Country (PDF)
"This report explores ways in which tribes can work within current jurisdictional limitations to impose significant, meaningful, and effective deterrents and consequences for non-Indian offenders."
Culture Handbook
"This handbook is designed to be used by advocates and professionals who work with those who are victims of domestic and sexual violence. It provides some basic information on how to understand culture and begin the process of challenging oneself to become more aware of the ways in which culture impacts our work and the lives of those who are victims."
Databases (PDF)
This Tip Sheet on Databases and Specialized System Databases was developed to help agencies and communities respond effectively to the ways that technology impacts victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual violence and stalking. The document looks at how the technology works, how agencies and partnerships are using it, benefits and risks, and things to consider when using Databases.
DNA Evidence: Enhancing Law Enforcement’s Impact From Crime Scene to Courtroom and Beyond (PDF)
"This report attempts to capture the issues and concerns identified and the recommendations related to crime victims, DNA evidence, and the criminal justice system that emerged from the sharing of so many varied perspectives."
Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault & Stalking Prevention and Intervention in Rural Native American Communities: Training, Research and Education Programs
A comprehensive training manual for rural Native American communities addressing domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking through training, research and educational programming. Note: This document provides a general overview. When developing a plan for your community, look to your own tribal codes and state and federal laws concerning confidentiality and explore methods which can be used in the civil or criminal justice arenas which would enhance victim safety.
Effects of Sexual Assault (PDF)
This document can be used by rape crisis centers or other sexual assault agencies to provide information on the effects of sexual assault and to explain some of the more common effects that sexual assault victims may experience. Agencies can add their own logo and contact information to the document.
Ensuring Forensic Medical Exams for All Sexual Assault Victims: A Toolkit for States and Territories
This "toolkit is designed to help states and territories address compliance with federal statute to ensure that victims of sexual assault can get a forensic medical exam free of charge or with full reimbursement regardless of whether they report the crime to police or otherwise cooperate with the criminal justice system."
FAQ's on Survivor Confidentiality Releases (PDF)
This document addresses common questions regarding confidentiality and releases of information. It takes into account the confidentiality and privacy provisions in the U.S. federal Violence Against Women and Department of Justice Reauthorization Act of 2005 (VAWA 2005). In analyzing the meaning and application of the confidentiality and privacy provisions of VAWA 2005, the purpose of the statute (to protect adult, youth, and child victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking and their families) must be kept at the forefront.
Final Report: Focus Group on Public Law 280 and the Sexual Assault of Native Women (PDF)
This is the final report from the "focus group on the Oneida Indian Reservation in Green Bay, Wisconsin that discussed challenges to, and opportunities for, collaboration between states and tribes in Public Law 280 jurisdictions to address sexual assault in Indian country."
Forging New Collaborations: A Guide for Rape Crisis, Domestic Violence, and Disability Organizations
Through its Accessing Safety Initiative, Vera’s Center on Victimization and Safety provides training and consultation on collaboration and capacity-building at the intersection of violence and disability. By the end of 2010, OVW’s Disability Grant Program had fostered more than 40 such collaborations. This report is based upon Vera’s work with and observations of those collaborations from 2006 through 2010, as well as in-depth interviews with representatives from 10 of the groups and an extensive literature review on effective collaboration. It is designed for policy makers, practitioners, and first-responders interested in using collaboration to address violence against people with disabilities. It offers concrete recommendations for how to build effective collaboration between victim services and disability organizations, practical strat¬egies for overcoming common obstacles, and steps to begin the collaboration process.
Frequently Asked Questions about U.S. Federal Laws & Confidentiality for Survivors (PDF)
This piece addresses common confidentiality questions about several U.S. federal laws that may impact victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. It highlights key confidentiality and privacy provisions in 2005 reauthorization of the Violence Against Women and Department of Justice Reauthorization Act (VAWA) and the 2010 reauthorization of the Family Violence Prevention Services Act (FVPSA). With VAWA confidentiality provisions in mind, it also answers questions regarding the following U.S. federal laws: The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics (Clery), the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA), and, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
GPS Monitoring of Offenders (PDF)
This Tip Sheet on GPS Monitoring of Offenders was developed to help agencies and communities respond effectively to the ways that technology impacts victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual violence and stalking. The document looks at how the technology works, how agencies and partnerships are using it, benefits and risks, and things to consider when contemplating GPS Monitoring of Offenders.
High-Tech Stalking (PDF)
This Tip Sheet on High-Tech Stalking was developed to help agencies and communities respond effectively to the ways that technology impacts victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual violence and stalking. Stalkers are increasingly misusing a variety of telephone, surveillance, and computer technologies to harass, terrify, intimidate, coerce, and monitor former and current intimate partners. Perpetrators are also misusing technology to stalk before, during, and after perpetrating sexual violence. This document looks at how the technology works, how agencies and partnerships are using it, benefits and risks, and things to consider regarding High-Tech Stalking.
Introducing Expert Testimony to Explain Victim Behavior in Sexual and Domestic Violence Prosecutions (PDF)
"This monograph sets forth recommended practices for addressing victims behavior in a sexual or domestic violence prosecution, and providing an accurate context in which a jury can evaluate a victim's behavior."
Investigating Sexual Assaults: Concepts and Issues Paper (PDF)
This paper was developed to accompany the Model Policy on Investigating Sexual Assaults developed by the IACP National Law Enforcement Policy Center. The paper provides essential background material and supporting documentation to provide a greater understanding of the developmental philosophy and implementation required for the model policy. It also addresses field investigative procedures and best practices for working with victims of criminal sexual violence.1 This material is designed to assist law enforcement executives in tailoring the model policy to the requirements and circumstances of their own communities and agencies.
Know Your Rights: Sexual Harassment and Housing
Have you experienced unwanted touching, unwanted sexual advances, sexual jokes, comments, or gestures in your rental housing? Fair housing laws may help you.
La Violencia Sexual En Contra de Trabajadores Agricolas: Un Manual Para Los Profesionales En Justicia Criminal (PDF)
El objetivo de este manual es aumentar el conocimiento y habilidades de los profesionales en la justicia criminal para que puedan servir mejor a los campesinos quienes han experimentado violencia sexual. Este manual provee explicaciones útiles sobre la vida y trabajo de los campesinos, así como asuntos únicos que impactan los servicios que usted provee. Cada sección presenta un tema definido, y termina con preguntas diseñadas para comprometerlo a asistir mejor a las víctimas de violencia sexual en su comunidad.
La Violencia Sexual En Contra de Trabajadores Agricolas: Un Manual Para Los Proveedores de Servicios Legales (PDF)
El objetivo de este manual es aumentar el conocimiento y habilidades de los proveedores legales para que puedan servir mejor a los campesinos quienes han experimentado violencia sexual. Este manual provee explicaciones útiles sobre la vida y trabajo de los campesinos, así como asuntos únicos que impactan los servicios que usted provee. Cada sección presenta un tema definido, y termina con preguntas diseñadas para comprometerlo a asistir mejor a las víctimas de violencia sexual en su comunidad.
Leadership + Systems Change = Sustainability (PDF)
"The purpose of this report is to provide a summary of the Leadership + Systems Change = Sustainability pilot program, including initial outcomes. It draws extensively upon the stories and experiences of the advocates and faith leaders who worked in partnership with TC-TAT as well as from evaluations throughout the pilot program."
Listen To The Grandmothers Video Guide and Resource: Incorporating Tradition into Contemporary Responses to Violence Against Native Women (PDF)
This video guide and resource is a tool for tribal communities viewing the Listen to the Grandmothers video to assist further discussion and a resource for assisting communities that wish to incorporate the use of cultural traditions in responding to violence against Native women.
Mental Health Services for Rape Survivors: Current Issues in Therapeutic Practice
This Violence Against Women Online Resources commissioned document reviews three critical issues for mental health practitioners working with rape survivors. First, current research suggests that victims experience a variety of negative mental health effects from sexual assault, including, but not limited to, post-traumatic stress symptoms. Second, empirical evaluations of therapeutic techniques suggest that cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT) can be effective in reducing short-term post-rape fear and anxiety symptoms. Finally, it is not uncommon that mental health practitioners who work with rape survivors experience distressing emotions similar to those of the survivors. Self care strategies are particularly important for therapists engaged in this kind of work.
National Sexual Assault Response Team Survey Report (PDF)
This report summarizes the information gathered by the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) via a web-based survey regarding how local, state, territory and tribal communities have developed Sexual Assault Response Teams (SARTs). The survey is a follow-up to the national needs assessment conducted in 2005 by NSVRC. The information from the current survey will help NSVRC obtain an updated picture of SARTs nationwide.
National Training Standards for Sexual Assault Medical Forensic Examiners (PDF)
The standards in this document "provide guidelines to prepare SAFE candidates to work in coordination with other responders to meet the health care, forensic, and information needs of adult and adolescent sexual assault patients who present for the medical forensic examination."
Online Privacy & Safety Tips (PDF)
Browsing the web safely and privately is concern for many people. A good general rule is that nothing online is private. Another general rule is that you can’t be completely anonymous online. However, you can take steps to prevent sensitive and personal information from making its rounds on the Web..This Tip Sheet on Online Privacy & Safety Tips was developed to help agencies and communities respond effectively to the ways that technology impacts victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual violence and stalking.
Police Response to Crimes of Sexual Assault: A Training Curriculum (Second Edition)
This training manual addresses police procedures for responding to sexual assault (specifically in Connecticut) including handling initial response, victim interviews, evidence gathering, and building a case for court. It can be adapted to any state.
Privacy Considerations When Posting Content Online (PDF)
This Tip Sheet on Privacy Considerations When Posting Content Online was developed to help agencies and communities respond effectively to the ways that technology impacts victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual violence and stalking. For those who want to be more protective of their online information, here are some questions to consider when posting content online.
Prosecuting Alcohol-Facilitated Sexual Assault (PDF)
"This monograph discusses the prosecution of AFSA with a specific focus on AFSA when the victim is voluntarily intoxicated. It begins with a basic overview of toxicology. Next, it suggests a three-step process for prosecuting AFSA cases: (1) making the charging decision; (2) analyzing credibility and corroboration; and (3) trying the case. Finally, the monograph provides techniques for overcoming common defenses."
Prosecutor Sexual Assault Protocol
"This guide focuses on the development of an internal protocol for use by tribal prosecutors."
Protection Order Registries and Databases (PDF)
This Tip Sheet on Protection Order Registries and Databases was developed to help agencies and communities respond effectively to the ways that technology impacts victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual violence and stalking. The document looks at how the technology works, how agencies and partnerships are using it, benefits and risks, and things to consider when using Protection Order Registries and Databases.
Reduce Your Risk (PDF)
This document can be used by rape crisis centers or other sexual assault agencies to provide information on steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of being assaulted. Agencies can add their own logo and contact information to the document.
Sample Advocacy Materials: Housing Rights & Remedies for Sexual Assault Victims (PDF)
Sample letter for assisting sexual assault victims who need to break their leases and examples of complaints to demonstrate how laws can be used.
Selecting a Database (PDF)
This chart provides agencies with an easy way to answer key questions to consider when selecting a database. The chart has sections that list questions for agencies to answer regarding: (1) general technical information, (2) data entry, (3) modifying fields and screens, (4) permissions and access, (5) reports, (6) data storage, (7) confidentiality and data ownership, and (8) breeches, liability and notice.
Sex Offender Registration and Notification in Indian Country
This report provides recommendations on how Tribes can best protect their sovereignty while substantially complying with SORNA’s mandatory requirements of sex offender registration and notification.
Sexual Assault Civil Protection Orders by State (PDF)
A chart that lists sexual assault civil protection orders (CPOs) by state.
Sexual Assault in Indian Country: Confronting Sexual Violence (PDF)
This document highlights certain types of sexual assault evidence and presents it within the historical treatment of native populations, jurisdictional problems and prevalence of violence.
Sexual Assault Incident Reports: Investigative Strategies
This document provides guidelines and strategies that are based upon national best practices regarding sexual assault incident investigations and support for officers and departments in preparing sexual assault cases for successful prosecution through detailed case documentation and thorough investigations.
Sexual Assault Response Team Development: A Guide for Victim Service Providers (PDF)
The focus of this Technical Assistance Guide is to help sexual assault service providers build, expand, formalize, and maintain strong interagency responses to sexual violence. It includes a brief overview followed by Practice Tips, Ways to Build SART Excellence, and Key Resources.
Sexual Assault Response Teams: Resource Guide for the Development of a Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) in Tribal Communities (PDF)
This manual will assist tribal communities in instituting effective, integrated policies and procedures for the investigation, prosecution, and provision of services in sexual assault cases for Native women.
Sexual Violence Against Farmworkers: A Guidebook for Criminal Justice Professionals (PDF)
The goal of this guidebook is to increase the knowledge and skills of criminal justice professionals so that you can better serve farmworkers who have experienced sexual violence. It provides helpful explanations about the life and work of farmworkers as well as unique issues that may impact the services you provide. Each section presents a distinct topic, concluding with questions designed to engage you in better assisting farmworker victims of sexual violence in your community.
Sexual Violence Against Farmworkers: A Guidebook for Legal Providers (PDF)
The goal of this guidebook is to increase the knowledge and skills of legal professionals so that you can better serve farmworkers who have experienced sexual violence. It provides helpful explanations about the life and work of farmworkers as well as unique issues that may impact the services you provide. Each section presents a distinct topic, concluding with questions designed to engage you in better assisting farmworker victims of sexual violence in your community.
Sexual Violence Against Farmworkers: A Guidebook for Social Service Providers (PDF)
The goal of this guidebook is to increase the knowledge and skills of social service providers so that you can better serve farmworkers who have experienced sexual violence. It provides helpful explanations about the life and work of farmworkers as well as unique issues that may impact the services you provide. Each section presents a distinct topic, concluding with questions designed to engage you in better assisting farmworker victims of sexual violence in your community.
Social Networking & Privacy Tips for Domestic & Sexual Violence Programs (PDF)
Domestic violence and sexual assault programs are increasingly using social networks, such as Facebook, MySpace or Bebo. There are many benefits to joining a social network: networking with peers, reaching out to potential funders and allies, and raising awareness. However, there are legitimate concerns about safety risks and confidentiality. This Tip Sheet on Social Networking & Privacy Tips for Domestic & Sexual Violence Programs was developed to help agencies respond effectively to the ways that social networking impacts victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual violence and stalking.
Standards of Practice for Lawyers Representing Victims of Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Stalking in Civil Protection Order Cases (PDF)
"These Standards are presented as aspirational guidelines for the operation of legal service providers, pro bono legal service providers, and individual lawyers representing victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking in civil protection order cases."
Statistics (PDF)
This document can be used by rape crisis centers or other sexual assault agencies to provide information on statistics on sexual assaults, including statistics on who the victims are, the effects of rape, the occurrence of sexual assaults, reporting to the police, and the offenders . Agencies can add their own logo and contact information to the document.
STRATEGIES In Brief Issue #10: Protecting the Victim's Privacy: United States v. Morris (PDF)
This In Brief provides an overview of United States v. Morris, a discussion on introducing expert testimony to explain victim behavior, and a discussion on protecting the privacy interests of victims.
STRATEGIES In Brief Issue #12: Making it Stick: Protecting the Record for Appeal (PDF)
Obtaining a conviction in a sexual assault or domestic violence case is usually a hard-won victory, whether by guilty plea or by trial. Having finally achieved a measure of justice in such a case, the last thing the prosecutor wants is to be forced back to the drawing board to re-try (or to re-negotiate) the case due to reversal on appeal. During the months or years it takes for a case to wend its way through the appellate process, evidence loses its freshness, memories fade, and witnesses who were cooperative during the initial proceedings may now be difficult to locate or reluctant to testify a second time. A reversal on appeal can be devastating to the victim, who may have been progressing in her recovery not only from the act of violence itself, but from the stress and uncertainty that accompany the criminal trial process.
STRATEGIES In Brief Issue #1: And Then There Was One: A Recent Minnesota Supreme Court Decision Has Left Pennsylvania as the Only State That Disallows Expert Testimony to Explain Victim Behavior (PDF)
On March 24, 2011, the Minnesota Supreme Court clarified that in sexual assault cases, the prosecution can admit expert opinion testimony to explain the typicality of delayed reporting, lack of physical injuries and the reasons therefore, and passive resistance by victims during the attack. The prosecutors in State v. Obeta, did a skillful job of creating a strong trial court record that inevitable led the Minnesota Supreme Court to logically conclude that expert testimony is admissible and necessary to explain common victim behavior in sexual assault cases. This case note will explain the holding in Obeta and outline the prosecution's successful strategy to bring Minnesota in line with almost every other American jurisdiction to permit the admissibility of expert testimony to explain c0ommon victim behaviors in sexual assault cases.
STRATEGIES In Brief Issue #2: Understanding the U.S. Supreme Court's Decision on Post-Trial DNA Testing in Osborne (PDF)
In District Attorney v. Osborne, 128 S.Ct.2308 (June 19, 2009), the United States Supreme court held that criminal defendants do not have a federal due process right to post-trial DNA testing.There are many valid reasons why these tests should not be done in Osborne's case, and why the Supreme Court's decision to deny the existence of a federal due process right to post-trial DNA testing--a position supported by the U.S. Department of Justice--was a victory for victims and for prosecutors. To fully understand the decision, however, a review of the facts and case is necessary.
STRATEGIES In Brief Issue #3: Supreme Court Clarifies Miranda (PDF)
On February 24, 2010, the United States Supreme Court decided Maryland v. Shatzer, 559 U.S.___(2010), in which it reinstated a defendant's child sexual abuse conviction and announced a new rule that permits the police to resume questioning of suspects who invoke their rights to remain silent after 14 days pass after they are released from police custody. This in-brief provides information on facts and holding related to the courts opinion.
STRATEGIES In Brief Issue #4: Miranda Under the Microscope Again (PDF)
On June 1, 2010, the United States Supreme Court rendered its opinion in Berghuis, Warden v. Thompkins, 560 U.S.___(2010), a case involving an individual's waiver of his right to remain silent pursuant to Miranda v Arizona. The Court held that after properly administering the Miranda warning, police did not need an express or implied waiver of rights before they interrogated the suspect and that the suspect in this case failed to clearly invoke his right to remain silent by simply remaining mostly silent during the interrogation. This In-Brief covers facts, the decision, and the impact of the courts opinion.
STRATEGIES In Brief Issue #5: Understanding Anogenital Injury in Adult Sexual Assault Cases (PDF)
Anogenital injury is often seen as the ultimate evidence in sexual assault cases. However, the reality is that anogenital injury evidence has significant limitations. Specifically, in the vast majority of cases we are limited in our ability to distinguish between injuries resulting from a sexual assault and those sustained during consensual sexual activity.Understanding the emerging research on consensual sexual activity injury can therefore help us provide more accurate information to attorneys, judges, and juries in adult sexual assault cases. This In-Brief discusses research on injury rates, sexual assault versus consensual sex, other uses of injury evidence, and using evidence for prosecution.
STRATEGIES In Brief Issue #6: Supreme Court Continues to Expand the Sixth Amendment Confrontation Clause: Bullcoming v. New Mexico (PDF)
On June 23, 2011, the Supreme Court decided Bullcoming v. New Mexico, 131 S.Ct. 2705 (2011), in which it held that the Confrontation Clause prohibits the prosecution from introducing a forensic laboratory report through the testimony of an analyst who did not sign the certification or personally perform or observe the testing. The opinion follows the Crawford v. Washington line of cases that have interpreted the Sixth Amendment to the United States Constitution's Confrontation Clause to require confrontation of testimonial out-of-court statements. Bullcoming was decided after Melendez-Diaz v. Massachusetts, and follows closely the holding in that case, which prohibited the introduction of a laboratory drug analysis affidavit without the in-court testimony of the laboratory technician or analyst who certified the report. This In-Brief provides information on the case facts, holding, and the impact of the courts opinion.
STRATEGIES In Brief Issue #7: Benefits of a Coordinated Community Response to Sexual Violence (PDF)
This In-Brief discusses the benefits of a coordinated community response to sexual violence.
STRATEGIES In Brief Issue #8: The Benefits of Specialized Prosecution Units in Domestic and Sexual Violence Cases (PDF)
This In-Brief explores the benefits of specialized prosecution units in domestic and sexual violence cases by looking at collaboration with allied partners and the process-oriented approach, concentrated trial experience, focused training, and vicarious trauma.
STRATEGIES In Brief Issue #9: Supreme Court Clarifies the "Ongoing Emergency" in Michigan v. Bryant (PDF)
This In Brief discusses the facts and the decision of the US Supreme Court case Michigan v. Bryant. The authors then discuss the importance of this case in provided criminal justice practitioners with guidance on what constitutes an ongoing emergency and how this impacts domestic violence ans sexual assault cases.
STRATEGIES Newsletter Issue #1: AEquitas: Established to Promote Justice in Violence Against Women Prosecution (PDF)
Issues of the AEquitas newsletter, STRATEGIES: The Prosecutors' Newsletter on Violence Against Women, will address specific substantive topics in the area of violence against women prosecution, discuss emerging issues faced by prosecutors and allied professionals, and present effective practices to overcome these obstacles. This issue provides an introduction to the work of AEquitas and their mission.
STRATEGIES Newsletter Issue #2: Educating Juries in Sexual Assault Cases Part I: Using Voir Dire to Eliminate Jury Bias (PDF)
This article is the first in a series that will explain strategies to educate juries about sexual violence facts and overcome common misconceptions. In addition to providing data-driven information about sexual assault based on research, journal articles, and authoritative publications, this article will suggests ideas to improve jury selection techniques.
STRATEGIES Newsletter Issue #5: 10 Strategies for Prosecuting Child Sexual Abuse at the Hands of a Family Member (PDF)
Despite the volume of research and literature addressing sexual abuse perpetrated against a child by a family member, individuals inside and outside of the criminal justice system continue to misperceive common dynamics, misunderstand victim behavior and minimize offender dangerousness. Judges and juries unfamiliar with the dynamics of sexual assault may overlook offenders' grooming tactics or misperceive common victim reactions to abuse as evidence of the victim's lack of credibility. Prosecutors handling these cases face unique challenges. The following 10 strategies will help prosecutors prepare and litigate cases of sexual abuse against a child by a family member.
Successfully Investigating Acquaintance Sexual Assault: A National Training Manual for Law Enforcement
This curriculum focuses on the investigation of nonstranger sexual assaults and emphasizes investigative tools and techniques for cases in which a consent, rather than identity, defense is raised. These training materials include 12 content modules, 12 trainer's curriculum units, classroom overheads, and supplemental materials that include sample affidavits and search warrants.
Suggestions for Starting or Refocusing a Women of Color Caucus
The Women of Color Leadership project created suggestions for Women of Color who are considering or have decided to start a Women of Color Caucus. Caucuses have long been recognized as an effective mechanism for people who share a common identity, experience or commitment to an issue to network and build support.
Summary of U.S. State Laws Related to Advocate Confidentiality (PDF)
This chart provides a summary of U.S. state laws related to advocate confidentiality. The chart includes the following sections (1) state, (2) summary, (3) privilege, and, (4) definitions.
Survivor Confidentiality and Privacy: Releases and Waivers At‐A‐Glance (PDF)
This Tip Sheet on Survivor Confidentiality and Privacy: Releases and Waivers At‐A‐Glance was developed to help agencies and communities respond effectively to the ways that technology impacts victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual violence and stalking. This document provides information on the fundamentals, innovative partnerships, federal & state laws, who can authorize a release, and best practices.
Sustainability 101 Creating a Business Plan for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (PDF)
This guide reviews the basic steps of developing a business plan and explains the components needed for SANE services to be successful. It is identified as a critical tool for starting and sustaining existing healthcare services.
Sustainability 101 Fostering Collaboration Between SANE Program Coordinators and Medical Directors (PDF)
In addition to collaboration between Sexual Assault Response Teams (SARTs), community partners and other agencies, this document talks about the importance of collaboration between SANEs and physician colleagues to assist with the credibility and sustainability of a SANE Program.
Sustainability 101 Long Range Thinking for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Program Managers (PDF)
This document explains how issues such as infrastructure (e.g., staffing, training, leadership) and relationships (e.g., collaboration with healthcare institutions and victim service providers), can impact sustainability of SANE programs.
Technology Safety Quick Tips (PDF)
This Tip Sheet on Technology Safety Quick Tips was developed to help agencies and communities respond effectively to the ways that technology impacts victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual violence and stalking. This document describes different devices, risks to consider when choosing a device, and safety strategies that can be utilized for each device.
Teen Tools: Help for Teenage Victims of Crime
This is a resource sheet for teenage victims of crime.
The Facts about Sexual Violence
This fact sheet provides current information and statistics on sexual violence. Information includes a working definition, explanation of different forms of sexual violence and legal protections for victims of sexual violence.
The Principles of Advocacy: A Guide for Sexual Assault Advocates
This document provides "a better understanding of the far-reaching impact of sexual assault against American Indian and Alaskan Native women by exploring specific elements of perceptions, policy, and other key factors in order to determine the scope of the problem."
The Snapshot Project
A project that gathered statistics and vignettes from states, tribes and local communities, in order to highlight changes that have occurred as a result of funding through the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).
The Use of Expert Witnesses in Cases Involving Sexual Assault
This Violence Against Women Online Resources commissioned document summarizes the existing knowledge on the use of expert witnesses in cases involving sexual assault. The author uses both published literature and contributions provided by numerous experts in the field to discuss the use of expert testimony, the general dynamics of sexual assault, and common reactions of victims in the prosecution of criminal sexual assault cases. Specific information on who, what, when and how to use expert witnesses, along with the effects of expert witnesses on jurors is provided.
The Violence Against Women Act: A Housing Toolkit for Advocates (PDF)
"The toolkit is designed to provide advocates with an overview of VAWA’s housing provisions and includes administrative guidance, recent legal developments, and sample advocacy materials."
Toolkit to End Violence Against Women (PDF)
To provide concrete guidance to communities, policy leaders, and individuals engaged in activities to end violence against women developed the Toolkit To End Violence Against Women. The recommendations contained in the Toolkit were reviewed by numerous experts in the fields of sexual assault, domestic violence, and stalking. Each Toolkit chapter focuses on a particular audience or environment and includes recommendations for strengthening prevention efforts and improving services and advocacy for victims.
Tribal Law Enforcement Protocol Resource: Sexual Assault Guide for Drafting or Revising Tribal Law Enforcement Agency’s Protocols Responding to Sexual Assault (PDF)
"This guide for drafting or revising tribal law enforcement agency’s protocols responding to sexual assault (including a model sexual assault protocol) is a tool for improving the investigation of sexual assault crimes."
Tribal Legal Code Resource: Sexual Assault and Stalking Laws Guide for Drafting or Revising Victim-Centered Tribal Laws Against Sexual Assault and Stalking (PDF)
"This guide for drafting or revising victim-centered tribal laws against sexual assault and stalking is written with a philosophy that tribal laws should reflect tribal values."
U Visa Update: Practice Pointers on New CIS Policies (PDF)
This PowerPoint gives an overview of U Visa issues as discussed with the US Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS) and provide practitioner's tips on new developments and updates.
Understanding Sexual Violence: Prosecuting Adult Rape and Sexual Assault Cases
This model curriculum provides prosecutors with tools for successful sex crimes prosecutions, especially regarding stranger rapes. Police, victim advocates, rape crisis counselors and probation departments will find this curriculum useful and adaptable.
Undue Influence: The Criminal Justice Response - Participant Materials (PDF)
This is the participant materials for the Undue Influence training for law enforcement officers.
VAWA 2005 Immigration Provisions (PDF)
This is a brief overview of the VAWA 2005 immigration provisions.
Victim Responses to Sexual Assault: Counterintuitive or Simply Adaptive? (PDF)
"This resource provides information on the different responses that individuals who are sexually assaulted display as well as the different coping strategies of victims."
Video Cameras (PDF)
This Tip Sheet on Video Cameras was developed to help agencies and communities respond effectively to the ways that technology impacts victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual violence and stalking. The document looks at how the technology works, how agencies and partnerships are using it, benefits and risks, and things to consider when using Video Cameras.
Violence Against Native Women: A Guide for Practitioner Action (PDF)
"This paper is intended to serve as a guide to practitioners who represent Native women who are the victims of domestic and sexual violence. It is dedicated to the brave Native women whose faces are behind the horrifying statistics."
Was I Raped? (PDF)
This document can be used by rape crisis centers or other sexual assault agencies to provide information on how to identify if you have been raped or sexually assaulted. The document addresses considerations in determining whether or not a sexual act is consensual or if it is a crime and common question about rape. Agencies can add their own logo and contact information to the document.
Web Accessibility (PDF)
A variety of technologies are available to ensure that the Internet is accessible for every person regardless of disability. This Tip Sheet on Web Accessibility was developed to help agencies and communities respond effectively to the ways that technology impacts victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual violence and stalking. The document looks at how the technology works, how agencies and partnerships are using it, benefits and risks, and things to consider when thinking about Web Accessibility.
What Should I Do? (PDF)
This document can be used by rape crisis centers or other sexual assault agencies to provide information on what to do if you have been raped or sexually assaulted. Agencies can add their own logo and contact information to the document.
When a Youth is Victimized
This document provides information on how to help a youth who has been victimized by crime.
Working with Men and Boys to Prevent Gender-Based Violence
This tool kit has been designed to help groups and individuals learn about and undertake work with men and boys for violence prevention. It provides readings, case studies, handouts, exercises, and other resources as well as community-building tools.
Workplaces Respond to Domestic and Sexual Violence: A National Resource Center
The Workplaces Respond to Domestic and Sexual Violence: A National Resource Center project offers information on the Internet for the benefit of those interested in providing effective workplace responses to victims of domestic violence, sexual violence, dating violence and stalking. Funded by the U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women, the Workplaces Respond project is a partnership of the Family Violence Prevention Fund (FVPF), Legal Momentum, Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape and its National Sexual Violence Resource Center, Resource Sharing Project of the Iowa Coalition Against Sexual Assault, American Bar Association Commission on Domestic Violence, Corporate Alliance to End Partner Violence, and Victim Rights Law Center.