Based on all of this information, the judge will sentence the defendant. The criminal justice system often involves delays and postponements. As a result, the time between the initial investigation and its conclusion in court can be long. It is often helpful to work with an advocate who will provide emotional support and will be able to answer any questions about the process. They let you know what is happening with your case.
Sexual assault is an act of violence, and a crime.
Being sexually assaulted by someone you know does not make the crime any less serious. Everyone reacts in different ways following a sexual assault. Anger, frustration, powerlessness, and helplessness are common feelings that victims experience. Reactions to the assault may also include embarrassment, guilt, numbness, suspicion, denial, obsessions with the assault, aversion to touch and the disruption of a normal sex life. Healing from sexual assault begins when the victim is able to deal with what has happened and her feelings about it.