Evidence can be vital in pursuing justice after a sexual assault. It helps your attorney build a stronger case against the perpetrator, increasing the chances of a favorable outcome. Physical evidence such as DNA, clothing fibers, or injuries can corroborate your version of events, making your testimony more credible in court or settlement negotiations.
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The legal team of Crowe Arnold & Majors, LLP, recognizes the harm suffered by survivors and has the experience to help them seek compensation through the courts. A Dallas sexual assault victim’s attorney will advocate for your rights and fight for the maximum recovery possible. Our attorneys handle sexual assault cases against institutions and organizations that, through negligence or willful misconduct, allowed or facilitated the abuse. Schedule a free, no-obligation, confidential consultation today.
How to Collect Evidence
After a sexual assault in Texas, it is essential to collect evidence as soon as possible to support legal action and ensure proper medical care.
Key evidence includes the following:
- Preserve Physical Evidence: If possible, avoid bathing, changing clothes, brushing teeth, or using the restroom, as these actions could destroy vital evidence, such as the assailant’s DNA.
- Clothing: If you have changed clothes, place the ones worn during the assault in a paper bag (not plastic) to preserve biological evidence.
- Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE): Seek medical attention at a hospital or clinic equipped to perform a forensic exam (also known as a rape kit). This exam can collect DNA, document injuries, and gather other evidence. In Texas, victims can request this exam without being required to report to law enforcement.
- Medical Records: Obtain copies of medical records, including any injuries or psychological treatment received after the assault, as these may be critical in supporting your case.
- Photographs: If you have visible injuries (bruises, cuts, etc.), take clear pictures of them, preferably with a date stamp.
- Witness Information: If anyone witnessed the assault or its aftermath, gather their names and contact details as they may provide crucial testimony.
- Communication Records: Preserve any messages, social media interactions, or emails with the assailant before or after the assault.
- Written Account: Write down everything you remember about the assault while the details are still fresh, including the time, location, and any other relevant information.
A lawsuit against an individual or organization that was either involved with or complicit in the abuse will require this evidence to show that this was more likely than not to have occurred, also known as the “preponderance of the evidence” standard used in civil sexual assault lawsuits.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Crowe Arnold & Majors
If you or someone you love has been subject to assault or abuse from a sexual predator, reach out to Crowe Arnold & Majors for dedicated legal counsel. By aligning yourself with a compassionate sexual assault lawyer for victims, you can hold abusers and their enablers accountable in sexual assault cases, as well as secure access to resources that may be required in the healing process.
Contact our Dallas office for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your rights to civil litigation. Since we work on a contingency fee basis, you will not pay attorney’s fees unless we win compensation for your injuries.
