Discussion List for campus-based and allied personnel working to end gender-based violence on campus.

["Clara Porter" <>]

We had a similar situation at USM related to sexual assault reported in an existing relationship.

 

The accused student contacted the local advocacy agency first and was accepted as a client. This left the reporting student feeling like they could not access an advocate.

 

We worked with the agency and they ended up working with both students by creating an internal information fire wall.  Both students had advocates present at the hearing.  They system worked extremely well.

 

As we do not have advocates on campus, it is typical that our Title IX Coordinator would have contact with all parties involved in a case to provide information on the hearing process where appropriate, provide referrals etc., though likely she would have considerably more contact with the accused student.  Others of us who play a role in supporting victims experiencing these crimes would unlikely to work with both parties.

 

Clara Porter, Coordinator

Interpersonal Violence Prevention

University of Southern Maine

112 Upton Hall, Gorham

780-4218 office

232-0484 cell

>>> Eva Suzanne Ball <> 11/7/2012 11:05 AM >>>

I have a hypothetical situation for your consideration:

 

-          Person A identifies as a stalking victim, being stalked by Person B.

-          Person A seeks and receives services from my office (which serves survivors of stalking, relationship violence and sexual assault).

-          Days later,  person B seeks services for relationship abuse, identifies person A as the perpetrator.

 

Other points to consider: My office is staffed by two people. In this hypothetical situation no formal charges have been brought against either person.

 

Would it be a conflict of interest to serve both people (assigning a different advocate to each person)?

Would it go against a victim-centered service model to deny services to either party?

How might you handle this situation?

 

I appreciate your input!

Peace and thanks,

Eva

 

 

 

 

 

Eva Ball, MSW

Coordinator

Sexual Violence Response Services and Advocacy

 

CARE (Center for Awareness, Response & Education)

Addressing Sexual Violence & Promoting Healthy Sexuality

Health Promotion & Wellness

Northwestern University

 

847-491-2054

 

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