The Library
Practical guideTraumaSexual violence1 minute read
Your rights when you speak to the police or a doctor
What you can ask for, and what you can refuse.
If you decide to report something or get medical care, you have rights. Exact rules differ by country, so check with a local service, but these principles are widely recognised.
With a doctor or hospital
- You can ask for a person of a particular gender, where possible
- You can ask for things to be explained before they happen
- You can say no to any part of an examination
- You can bring someone with you
- You can ask what will be written down and who will see it
With the police
- You can usually bring a support person
- You can ask for breaks
- You can ask what happens next and how long it may take
- You can ask whether there are specialist officers for your situation
- In many places, you can get advice from a support service before deciding whether to report
You decide
Reporting is your choice. Some people report straight away, some years later, some never. Each is valid. A specialist service can explain your options without pressure. The Resource Finder lists some by country.
