Are you exploring your legal options after experiencing sexual violence?  
​We are here to support you — on your terms, at your pace. 
​You are not alone.

Get Support

Our Sexual Violence Legal Advocacy Program is here to support you in understanding your legal rights and options. Whether you're thinking about reporting to the police, navigating a court process, or just want to understand what’s possible, we’re here to help you make informed, empowered choices. There is no time limit to access justice. We are here when you're ready. 
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How We Can Help 

Our team provides compassionate, non-judgmental support with: 

• Understanding your legal options 

• Exploring criminal, civil, and restorative justice pathways 

• Arranging and accompanying you to police interviews and reports 

• Supporting you through police investigations 

• Attending court proceedings or legal appointments with you 

• Providing emotional support and space to debrief 

• Helping to understand police investigation or trial outcomes 

We walk alongside you through the process whether you want to take action now, later, or just want to know your rights. You have control over what steps you take. 

Please note that this program is available to people living in Waterloo Region or to those whose cases occurred in Waterloo Region. 

Hospital, Police, and Court Accompaniments 

Our staff and volunteers are available to accompany you to: 

• Hospitals or medical appointments 
• Police interviews and court appearances 
• Meetings with legal professionals or other justice services 

We also provide assistance with letter writing, phone calls, and navigating appointments, always at your request and in line with your comfort and readiness. 

To arrange support or accompaniment, call our 24-Hour Support Line at 519-741-8633 or complete our Intake Form.

Intake Form

​If You’ve Recently Experienced Sexual Assault 

Medical Care – Your Health Comes First 

Medical care after an assault is important for your health and well-being, even if you’re not sure about reporting. It’s also a chance to get information about options, prevent STIs, or access emergency contraception.

You can visit: 

• Your family doctor or a walk-in clinic 
• The Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Treatment Centre (SADVTC) at: 
  • Waterloo Regional Health Network (formerly St. Mary’s Hospital)  
  • Cambridge Memorial Hospital 

Ask for the SADVT nurse on call. To contact the SADVTC directly, call 519-749-6994. 
 
If you would like a support person with you, call our 24-Hour Line and we can meet you at the hospital. 

Sexual Assault Evidence Kit (SAEK) 

While at the SADVTC, you can choose whether or not to complete a Sexual Assault Evidence Kit, which collects physical evidence that may be used if you decide to report. 

You do not need to report to police to complete a kit — the evidence can be stored confidentially at the hospital for up to 6 months, giving you time to decide. 

If you're thinking about completing a kit, try to avoid bathing, changing clothes, or using the washroom before the exam. That said, you can still go to the hospital even if you have done any of these things — your care matters more than perfect evidence. 

​Your Legal Options

Reporting to Police — Your Choice, Your Rights 

Reporting to police is a deeply personal decision. You deserve to know your rights and feel supported no matter what you decide. If you are considering making a police report, please complete this Intake Form to have support from our legal advocacy team.  
 
If you choose to report, you have the right to: 

• Be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect 
• Ask for a police officer of the same gender 
• Request privacy and breaks during interviews 
• Use your own words to describe what happened 
• Ask for clarification at any time 
• Bring a support person or advocate from our Centre 
• Access an interpreter or accessibility supports 
• File a complaint if you are mistreated 

Independent Legal Advice (ILA) 

If you are 16 or older and live in Ontario, you may be eligible for up to 4 hours of free legal advice through the Independent Legal Advice Program. You do not need to have reported to police to access this service. 

To apply, click here or call 1-855-226-3904. 

We can support you in accessing this service and help you understand what legal advice might be most helpful for your situation. 

We are here for you.

Whether you are seeking justice, exploring your options, or just trying to understand what’s next - we are here. You don’t have to face this alone. 

Call our 24-Hour Support Line at 519-741-8633 
​or complete the Intake Form to connect with someone who can listen, support, and walk alongside you. ​

Intake Form