Survivor Services Archives - You Have the Right CO

Who Pays for the Medical Forensic Exam?

One main barrier in deciding to seek medical care after a sexual assault can be paying for the medical care. Survivors may be concerned that seeking medical care will mean that their privacy will not be protected as they may have to give out their insurance information. However, there are several different entities that cover portions ... Read more

What Is a Medical Forensic Exam?

Moving Away From “Rape Kits” While “rape kit” is often heard in the media and on television crime shows, this term does not fully encompass the spectrum of care given in a medical forensic exam and may discourage individuals who do not identify with the term “rape” from seeking medical care. “Medical forensic exam” (MFE) is ... Read more

What Are My Legal Rights?

When thinking about your next steps, there are many things to consider after experiencing sexual assault. Some of the questions you may have are: What are my legal rights? What are my rights in Colorado? Do I need a lawyer? Do I have to report and participate in the criminal justice system? Although we can’t ... Read more

Who Can I Speak to For Help?

It can be confusing and overwhelming to decide on what to do next. However, there are several sexual assault advocacy and counseling resources available for you in Colorado. You can take a look at our resource map to find a confidential sexual assault advocacy program near you and/or some 24/7 help line numbers you can call. ... Read more

Colorado Reporting Options

What reporting options does a survivor have in Colorado? In Colorado, survivors of sexual assault between 18-69 years old, who do not have intellectual or developmental disabilities, have three options for reporting. Even though the term “reporting” is used, only one of the reporting options involves speaking with the police. With the other two options, ... Read more

Do I Need Medical Care?

Many survivors don’t have physical injuries from their assault like cuts and bruises. It is really common not to have visible injuries. Just because you don’t have them, doesn’t mean you weren’t sexually assaulted. You deserve to feel safe and get care to make sure your body is healthy even if you don’t visibly see ... Read more