What is a safety planning guide?
A safety planning guide for victims is a resource that provides practical strategies and advice to help individuals protect themselves and plan for their safety. It includes information on creating a personalized safety plan, accessing support services, and understanding legal options. We have developed a safety guide that you can download here. Victim advocates at […]
What if the offender contacts or harasses the victim?
The victim should immediately contact law enforcement. There are legal protections in place for victims of crime, and a victim should not have to face harassment or retaliation. The victim should keep any text messages, voicemails, call logs, social media posts or messages, or any other evidence proving that the offender contacted the victim. Any […]
How can I register for a Foreign Protective Order?
Learn more on how to register here.
What can I do to be safer on the internet and social media?
To stay safer online and on social media, limit the sharing of emails, texts, and posts you wouldn’t want the perpetrator to access, as all written communication can be saved by the viewer. Be cautious with friend requests—only accept them from people you know well, and remove any followers you don’t know personally. If someone […]
What is a Temporary Restraining Order?
A victim of stalking or harassment can petition for a Temporary Restraining Order (also known as a Restraining Order) through the Magistrate’s Court. This temporary order lasts for up to one year. To file a petition, a victim can visit the Magistrate’s Court Clerk where the proper forms will be available. There is no requirement […]
What can I do to safety plan while sheltering in place?
These safety planning steps are general recommendations and may not apply to every situation. For information on restraining orders, contact SCVAN’s Legal Department. If you or someone in your household is in immediate danger, call 911. If possible, use a landline, as it will automatically provide your location to dispatchers, even if you are unable […]
Do I need an attorney to represent me in my restraining order case?
In general, crime victims do not need legal representation at restraining order hearings (Restraining Orders, Orders of Protection, Permanent Restraining Orders) because they are designed for unrepresented persons. However, both parties have a legal right to an attorney. Keep in mind that victim advocates who may assist in filling out forms cannot offer legal advice. […]
What is a Permanent Restraining Order?
Permanent Restraining Orders are available to victims of or witnesses to certain crimes at the time of sentencing in General Sessions Court or after sentencing in the Court of Common Pleas. These restraining orders can last for a specific period (such as twenty years), or may last for a lifetime. The following requirements must be […]
What is rape or sexual assault called in South Carolina?
There are many different crimes that contain elements of rape or sexual assault in SC: Criminal Sexual Conduct – 1st Degree, Criminal Sexual Conduct – 2nd Degree, Criminal Sexual Conduct – 3rd Degree, Assault & Battery – 1st Degree, Assault & Battery – 2nd Degree, Assault with Intent to Commit Criminal Sexual Conduct, and Spousal […]
What can I do to safety plan BEFORE I separate from an abusive partner?
First, identify two close friends or family members with whom you can stay in case of an emergency, and develop a detailed emergency plan with them. Next, determine which property and debts you share with the perpetrator to understand your financial situation. If you do not already have one, open a personal bank account and […]
