To request legal advocacy services, you can call BARCC’s 24-hour hotline at 800-841-8371 or call BARCC’s main office line at 617-492-8306 from 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Our legal team helps survivors understand their legal rights and options in the aftermath of sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, and other forms of sexual violence. We assist survivors as they navigate the civil and criminal legal systems, including educational options and support. BARCC helps advocate for survivors’ privacy and safety in every aspect of their life. If survivors need legal representation, we connect them with an appropriate legal resource.
BARCC services are free and confidential to people ages 12 and older. BARCC Legal Advocacy and Immigration Legal Services are available in Spanish and English, with other languages available upon request. Reasonable accommodations will be provided.
What a legal advocate can do for you
Many survivors feel like they have no options, rights, or choices after an assault. Legal advocates can help you understand your options. Our advocates can offer information, support, and advocacy related to the following:
- Protecting your privacy
- Options for safety
- Reporting to the police
- The criminal legal system
- Pursuing a case in civil court
- Your school’s policies
- Your employer’s policies
- Your rights as an immigrant
What services do legal advocates provide?
Legal advocates can do the following:
- Talk to you on the phone or meet with you in person, once or many times
- Go with you to the police station
- Go with you to court
- Refer you to a lawyer
Who are BARCC legal advocates?
Legal advocates are rape crisis counselors with specialized legal training. They work with hundreds of clients each year. They work with the police, district attorneys, courts, schools, and other providers to ensure that survivors get the best possible response.
