There is no perfect way to respond to sexual assault, and nothing you did or didn’t do was wrong. This is a gentle guide to the options in front of you. Take only the steps that feel right.
Your safety comes first. If you’re in danger, call 911. Otherwise, find a place, physical or emotional, where you can breathe.
You don’t have to carry this alone. The RAINN hotline (800-656-4673) is free, anonymous, and available any hour.
A SANE nurse can treat injuries, address health concerns, and, if you wish, collect evidence, all confidentially. You can do this without reporting to police.
Many survivors come forward years later. Laws in most states have expanded to recognize that. It is rarely "too late" to learn your options.
Only when you feel ready, you can explore reporting, support, and whether a civil claim makes sense for you. There’s no clock you have to beat today.
A gentle reminder: laws and timelines differ by state, and they’ve been changing in survivors’ favor. See your options by state, or simply reach out; using this site costs nothing and creates no obligation.
Rarely. Many states have extended or removed time limits, and survivors come forward and find justice years or decades later. When you feel ready, it’s worth learning your specific options, it’s free to ask.
No. Reporting is always your choice, and you can find support or pursue a civil claim without a police report or any criminal case.
Hotlines such as RAINN are free. Many survivor-focused attorneys offer a free first consultation and work on contingency, but ask how any attorney charges before you agree.
Share only what feels okay. The team that runs this site reads these messages and can point you to support options. No pressure, no cost to you. If you need to talk now, call RAINN at 800-656-4673, 24/7.
Thank you for trusting us with this. If you need to talk now, RAINN is here 24/7 at 800-656-4673.