Victim's Rights

As a victim and survivor of sexual assault, you already have many rights. They are called "automatic rights" and, therefore, you don't have to ask for them.

Automatic Rights:

  • To be advised of all victim’s rights and how to assert them.
  • To information on the availability of crisis intervention, medical and emergency services, information on victim assistance programs and domestic violence resources.
  • To be provided the police report number, if available, and if the case has been submitted to the prosecutor’s office, as well as information on how to contact that office.
  • To be present at any court proceeding at which the defendant has a right to be present.
  • To name an appropriate support person, who is not a witness, to accompany you to any interview, deposition or court proceeding.
  • To be heard at any proceeding concerning release of the accused person, a plea agreement, and the sentencing (with some limitations).
  • To have the court order restitution, and to receive that restitution promptly.
  • To leave work (if eligible) to attend scheduled legal proceedings, or obtain or attempt to obtain an order of protection or injection against harassment.

“Upon Request” Rights:

These are rights that you must ask for:

  • To confer with the prosecutor about a decision not to proceed.
  • To request the prosecutor assert any right to which you are entitled.
  • To receive a free copy of the police report and/or court transcripts.
  • To receive a copy of the conditions of the suspect’s release from custody.
  • To receive notice of all court proceedings at which the defendant has a right to be present.
  • To the return of your personal property taken during investigation, and if the property cannot be returned, to be advised of the reasons.

If you want to know more about these rights, calls one of SACASA's Advocates at (520) 327-7273.

Legal Advocacy

Pima County Attorney's Office
Victim Services Division
(520) 740-5525
Web site
32 N. Stone Avenue | Tucson, AZ 85704
Monday - Friday  8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Victim advocates can help survivors throughout the duration of the case once the decision to prosecute is made.

How Victim Services Advocates Can Help You:

  • Ensure that when you exercise your rights, you receive everything entitled to you by law.
  • Help you assess your needs and to make appropriate referrals.
  • Explain the different court proceedings, your rights, and the roles of other parties involved.
  • Help you understand the various options and outcomes of your case.
  • Provide support throughout the case
  • Help you prepare for meeting with the prosecutor and speaking in court.
  • Assist with completing Victims’ Compensation applications, restitution affidavits, and writing Victim Impact Statements.

Financial Assistance

Arizona Crime Victim Compensation Program
(520) 740-5525
32 N. Stone Avenue, 14th Floor | Tucson, AZ 85704

Arizona Crime Victim Compensation Program offers financial help to victims of crime. You can apply for financial help if you:

  • Were victimized in Arizona.
  • Report the crime to a law enforcement agency within 72 hours.
  • Are willing to cooperate with the appropriate law enforcement agency.
  • Lose money as a direct result of the crime.
  • Suffer physical injury, a medical condition, extreme mental distress, or death as a direct result of the crime.

You can request an application for Financial Assistance by calling the Pima County Attorney's Office at (520) 740-5525. SACASA can also help you; call (520) 327-7273.

For more information, visit the Arizona Crime Victim Compensation Program's Web site.