Legal Process

The criminal justice process can be complicated and lengthy and can bring about a wide array of emotions for survivors, especially in sexual assault cases. The exact "path" followed through the process depends on the nature and facts of the crime, which can be confusing. Below, you will find a basic flow chart, which highlights the general events that occur from the time a crime occurs, followed by my personal experience with the criminal justice process thus far. Please note that "V/S" stands for "Victim/Survivor".

My personal experience

Step 1

One day, I decided to open up to my mom about what occurred.

Step 2

Together, we reported it to the Pennsylvania State Police.

Step 3

We contacted victim services (OVA, which stands for Office of Victim Advocate)

Step 4

I completed a thorough forensic interview and medical exam at a Children's Advocacy Center (CAC).

Step 5

We attended the perpetrator's Preliminary Hearing.

Step 6

The perpetrator was bailed out of jail.

Step 7

A representative from Children and Youth Services (CYS) met with me.

Step 8

Another arraignment took place, but I did not attend.

Step 9

I attended an omnibus hearing, where I might have had to provide additional evidentiary information.

Step 10

The perpetrator's lawyer, and the Assistant District Attorney (ADA), agreed on a guilty plea to certain charges, as well as five to ten years in prison, probation, and a lifetime Megan's Law registration.

Step 11

The perpetrator was sentenced to five to ten years in a state prison, followed by ten years of probation. In addition, he will be required to have a lifetime registration with Megan's Law. I was able to attend the sentencing hearing and read my victim impact statement.

The Syd Project

Legal Process

Flow chart

My personal experience

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

Step 7

Step 8

Step 9

Step 10

Step 11

Legal Process

Flow chart

My personal experience

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

Step 7

Step 8

Step 9

Step 10

Step 11

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