Confidentiality Alaska has confidentiality laws protecting you, if you decide to seek services from a domestic violence or sexual assault program. These programs maintain strict principles of confidentiality. The laws in Alaska protect communications between victims of domestic violence and sexual assault and advocates, except in limited circumstances. An advocate is one who listens and is non-judgmental. Advocates are neutral parties who do not conduct investigations, assist in investigations, make assessment of parties involved, or testify in court.
Advocates offer support and can assist with the many different areas listed on the previous pages.
The goal of an advocate is to maintain positive working relationships with members of law enforcement, prosecution, and the courts in an effort to ensure the system runs smoothly for the victim. An advocate encourages self-reliance and provides information that will assist the victim to do things for themselves. An advocate will only speak or act on behalf of the victims at the victim's request and direction. When law enforcement officers become aware of an incident of domestic violence they are obligated to investigate. Evidence includes your statement, the statements of others, injuries, damages to property, etc.