Help is available here in your language.
La ayuda está disponible aquí en su idioma.
在这里可以使用您的语言获得帮助。
L’aide est disponible ici dans votre langue.
Ở đây có hỗ trợ bằng ngôn ngữ của bạn.
المساعدة متاحة هنا بلغتك.
እገዛ በእርስዎ ቋንቋ እዚህ ይገኛል።

Adult Advocates

Advocates are there around the clock to support you through the process of getting medical care, reporting to police, and the aftermath of a sexual assault. They can also talk to you about your options and rights to help you decide on your next steps. Advocates are there solely to support you, accompany you, and help you navigate this process. 

To reach an advocate 24/7, call or text DC Victim Hotline here.

Quick Links

DC Victim Hotline
Who Are Adult Advocates?

FAQs & Rights

Under District law, you have the right to have a confidential, community-based advocate present to support you and provide information and resources during any:

medical forensic exam (SANE exam)

point in the hospital visit

interview with police or any District agency where you are talking about the sexual assault

Advocates can meet you at the hospital when you're seeking a SANE exam, or at the location of an interview with police or any District government agency.
Advocates can meet you at the hospital when you're seeking a SANE exam, or at the location of an interview with police or any District government agency to support you and provide:

Information about your rights under District and federal law as a survivor of sexual assault, and navigating the reporting and medical process

Safety planning and emotional support

Help tracking your evidence kit through the lab testing process

Legal referrals and help getting a protection order

Referrals to other resources such as housing, food, counseling, and follow up medical care

Transportation to and from the hospital for a SANE exam

Advocates work for community-based, nonprofit organizations in the District – Volare and the DC Rape Crisis Center. They are not part of law enforcement. They do not work for the government or for the hospital. They are there solely to help you.