What Records and Messages Should I Save Before a Sexual Abuse Consultation?
Before a sexual abuse consultation, it can help to save records and messages that show what happened, when it happened, who was involved, and how any person or institution responded.
You do not need to organize everything perfectly. The goal is to preserve what you have and make the first conversation easier to understand.
Start with a timeline
Write down the date or approximate time period, where the concern happened, who was involved, who else may know, when anyone reported it, and what happened after that. If the dates are approximate, say so.
Save messages and digital records
Save texts, emails, social media messages, screenshots, usernames, app records, photos, videos, platform reports, and call logs. If a message may disappear, capture the date, sender, username, and context if you can do so safely.
Save reports and institutional communications
If the concern involves a school, youth program, workplace, facility, rideshare company, online platform, or other institution, save complaint records, incident reports, emails, policies, meeting notes, witness names, and any written response.
Save medical, counseling, or support records if available
If there was medical care, a forensic exam, counseling, therapy, or a report to authorities, save the records you have. If you do not have records yet, write down where you received care or support.
Prime Attorneys can help connect survivors or families with attorneys who may be able to review sexual abuse concerns. Call or contact us for a free consult.
FAQ
No. Gather what you have and explain what may be missing.
Yes. Screenshots, usernames, messages, dates, and platform details may be useful.
Write down approximate dates and explain that they are estimates.
Prime Attorneys can help connect you with attorneys who may be able to review your situation.
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