You Have Rights: Understanding Victim Compensation and Legal Options in Florida

After surviving sexual violence, many people feel overwhelmed—not just emotionally, but financially and legally as well. Medical care, therapy, lost work hours, and safety concerns can create major stress. You may wonder: What help is available? Do I have any rights? Where do I even start?

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The good news is: You are not alone—and you have rights.
At Christina’s Courage, we’re here to help you understand those rights, explore your options, and walk with you every step of the way.

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Your Rights as a Survivor in Florida

Florida law recognizes that survivors of violent crimes deserve support, dignity, and safety. As a survivor of sexual violence, you have the right to:

• Receive a free forensic exam (SANE exam) without being required to report to police
• Decline law enforcement involvement—your care is not dependent on pressing charges
• Access counseling, advocacy, and medical referrals
• Ask for support at work or school to help you continue safely
• Be treated with respect and compassion in any legal process
• Request a restraining order (injunction for protection)
• Submit a Victim Impact Statement during legal proceedings
• Be notified of certain criminal justice updates, including an offender’s release

And if you do choose to participate in a legal case, you have the right to:

• A trained advocate with you during interviews and court appearances
• Request financial restitution from the offender
• Have your privacy protected as much as possible under law

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What is Victim Compensation?

Florida offers a Victim Compensation Program to help with costs related to the crime. This is a state-run program that provides financial assistance to survivors, even if the person who hurt you has not been arrested or convicted.

If you qualify, you may receive help with:

• Medical bills
• Counseling expenses
• Lost wages from missed work
• Relocation or emergency housing
• Crime scene cleanup
• Childcare while attending court or appointments

📌 Compensation is not income-based. You don’t have to pay it back.

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Do I Qualify?

You may be eligible if:

• The crime was reported to law enforcement or a medical provider (you don’t need to press charges)
• You are cooperating with reasonable steps in the process
• You apply within a certain time frame (typically within one year of the incident)
• You are not already receiving restitution for the same expenses

If you're not sure whether you qualify—that’s okay. We can help you find out.

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Legal Options (With or Without Reporting)

You are not required to report your assault to law enforcement to access medical care, advocacy, or therapy services through Christina’s Courage.

If you do choose to pursue legal action, we can support you by:

• Explaining your options in plain language
• Connecting you with trauma-informed legal counsel
• Helping you file protective orders or workplace/school accommodations
• Accompanying you to court or legal meetings
• Assisting with victim compensation forms and documentation

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Filing for Victim Compensation: How We Help

Christina’s Courage works with the Florida Council Against Sexual Violence (FCASV) to assist survivors through this process.

We can:

• Help you complete and submit the application
• Gather necessary documentation
• Advocate on your behalf if you face barriers
• Make sure you receive the care and compensation you're entitled to

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You Deserve Support—No Matter What

Whether you want to report, wait, or not pursue legal action at all—you still have rights.
You still deserve care. You still deserve peace.

Let Christina’s Courage help you explore your options with dignity, patience, and absolutely no pressure.

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Reach Out for Legal Support or Compensation Assistance:

📍 Advocate Line: 305-916-0673
📍 Email: aelliott@fcasv.org
📧 FCASV Legal Contact: legal@fcasv.org
📞 FCASV Phone: (850) 297-2000 ext. 123