For information on interviews, learn more about child forensic interviews.
Forensic medical exams provide peace of mind and can aid in the investigation of a crime
Forensic medical exams, also called “rape kits”, are most commonly requested within 72 hours of a sexual assault, rape, or other physical abuse. But even outside the 72-hour window, forensic medical exams can be valuable ways to reassure victims and families that everyone is okay.
ASSIST has trained SANE Nurses ready to help.
Meet your SANE Nurse
SANE stands for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner. These special nurses are trained in specialized care for victims of sexual assault and abuse. ASSIST SANE Nurses help collect biological evidence, document bruises, scars, or other harm, and are here to listen, believe, and support every patient with dignity and care.
Physical evidence is most commonly collected within 3-5 days of a crime, but even long-term abuse or abuse outside that collection window can be valuable to investigators and prosecutors.
What to expect during a forensic medical exam
Regardless of a patient’s age, a forensic medical examination typically lasts 3-6 hours. Throughout this procedure, survivors retain the right to participate in all aspects of the evidence collection process or to selectively engage in specific pieces according to their preference.
The examination often includes:
- Collecting blood and urine samples.
- Gathering evidence from the body via swabs.
- Photographs may be taken to document any injuries sustained.
Your rights during a forensic medical exam
- You have the right to a Victim Advocate at any time before, during, or after a forensic medical exam.
- You have the right to withdraw or refuse any or all parts of the exam.
- No one can force you to have a forensic medical exam short of a court order, which is extremely rare.
- You have the right to a private setting in a secure, respectful environment.
- You have the right to treatment for injuries, medications to prevent infections or pregnancy, and referrals for follow-up care.
- You have the right to copies of your medical records and exam report.
- Adults 18+ have the right to refuse law enforcement involvement, meaning you can have an exam done and we’ll store the evidence until and when you’re ready to move forward.
- All evidence collected is sealed, private, and held with the same level of medical confidentiality as any other medical procedure except where prohibited by law or a court.
- Survivors have rights under the Violence Against Women Act, which prohibits being billed directly for the forensic portion of an exam.
- You have the right to be informed about what’s happening.
After an exam, ASSIST can help you with next steps, such as protective orders, victim advocacy, counseling, therapy, and more.
FAQs about Forensic Medical Exams
No. You can decide whether to have one or not on your own time. We do, however, strongly suggest that if you want an exam to do so as soon after a sexual assault or abuse occurs. This maintains the strongest evidence, including DNA, if and when you decide to pursue charges later.
Yes. Adults can start or stop an exam at any time. Adults can also request specific parts of an exam not be conducted (for example, adults may request no photos be taken).
State laws, however, are different for minors under 18. Children involved in a crime may be required to undergo some parts of an exam. We’re also legally required to report any crime committed against a child to law enforcement.
Not if you do not want them to be. Anyone can schedule a forensic medical exam at ASSIST after a rape, sexual assault, or other physical trauma with or without involving law enforcement. If you decide after the exam to contact the police, we can help. If you decide not to, we can keep all of your medical records if and when you do decide to move forward.
There is no cost.
Yes. You are entitled to have a non-offending friend or family member with you in the room. You can also request one of our Advocates be with you, too.
Non-offending parents and caregivers can also accompany their child through an exam.
Anyone age 18+ also has the right to privacy and can choose to proceed alone, too. This includes 18-20 year olds who may come with a parent or guardian.
Forensic medical exams can take several hours. We suggest allowing 3-6 hours. It is a lengthy process, but it is the best way to collect evidence to prosecute informed crimes.
