Please help. Was this rape? What do I do? [20F]

  • I saw your comment on the legal sub-reddit too. I would like to add if others haven't already, that YES being put under cross-examination is very tough and daunting on you personally, but you're helping set up a deterrence for other guys/girls. Cases like these (if the defendant has a very good defence lawyer/counsel) might end up not punishing him IF he gets a not guilty, but trust me the fact that HE had to stand trial would have given him sleepless-sweaty and horrific nights about going into prison. He will be broken mentally, physically and emotionally. (Fucking asshole, sorry I know I should be impartial, but whatever, I'm on your side).

  • Also, you might be worried about your name being published, but to my knowledge (might need to check on your State laws), you could achieve name suppression (not just interim, but permanent) if your lawyer applies for it in the Court. Ask your assistant DA or whoever is prosecuting the case for you.

  • Finally, if criminal charges are not enough and you want to also sue him for compensation, you could pursue an action in Tort. A tort action is usually a monetary compensation (but there is absolutely no fucking price that could be put to compensate for his actions) for battery, false imprisonment, assault, and even sexual assault. Cases have included a man suing his uncle's estate for his past sexual assaults against him.

  • Bonus, your lawyer/counsel is likely an assistant of the District Attorney, so unlike the opposing party, you won't be billed for anything. In fact, a good thing before going under cross-examination (where the defendant's lawyer questions you and tries to discredit you), the prosecution lawyer would have prepared you well enough mentally and emotionally to the best of your ability. But again it also depends on how committed the prosecution lawyer is.

Best of luck, we got your back.

/r/rape Thread Parent