Answers to typical questions we receive
How can you be sure your statistical information is accurate?
Our statistics have been taken from various studies with credible sources. The statistics certainly reflect a general lack of understanding regarding the realities of child sexual abuse and sexual assault, even if the numbers were slightly off.
Do offenders in different Provinces receive different sentences?
Unlike in the US, Canada has a uniform criminal code with the same prescribed maximum penalties no matter what Province/Territory has jurisdiction of the crime. Judges in each Province are bound by their respective Provincial courts (and the Supreme Court of Canada) and average sentences may differ across Provinces. Keep in mind, no case is exactly the same and each case will be decided on its unique facts.
Why is sexual assault such a misunderstood crime?
For some reason our society has adopted stereotypes regarding sexual assault that are largely inconsistent with the statistical data. This is probably a result of our society repressing facts regarding sex and sexuality generally. The stigma that is unfortunately attached to sex crimes also promotes a lack of communication. One of the goals of this site is to help communicate the truth about sexual assault and child sexual abuse.
Isn't child sexual abuse sexual assault? Why deal with them differently?
Child sexual abuse is sexual assault. We separate the two largely because most viewers tend to be looking for information on one or the other. Child sexual abuse also has several unique features which make it appropriate to partition them.
Why do you encourage victims to go to court when it is so upsetting?
We encourage victims to report crimes because it helps reduce the risk of other people being assaulted. That being said, we do believe and state that reporting a crime is a personal decision to be made by the victim.
How can you be sure your statistical information is accurate?
Our statistics have been taken from various studies with credible sources. The statistics certainly reflect a general lack of understanding regarding the realities of child sexual abuse and sexual assault, even if the numbers were slightly off.
Do offenders in different Provinces receive different sentences?
Unlike in the US, Canada has a uniform criminal code with the same prescribed maximum penalties no matter what Province/Territory has jurisdiction of the crime. Judges in each Province are bound by their respective Provincial courts (and the Supreme Court of Canada) and average sentences may differ across Provinces. Keep in mind, no case is exactly the same and each case will be decided on its unique facts.
Why is sexual assault such a misunderstood crime?
For some reason our society has adopted stereotypes regarding sexual assault that are largely inconsistent with the statistical data. This is probably a result of our society repressing facts regarding sex and sexuality generally. The stigma that is unfortunately attached to sex crimes also promotes a lack of communication. One of the goals of this site is to help communicate the truth about sexual assault and child sexual abuse.
Isn't child sexual abuse sexual assault? Why deal with them differently?
Child sexual abuse is sexual assault. We separate the two largely because most viewers tend to be looking for information on one or the other. Child sexual abuse also has several unique features which make it appropriate to partition them.
Why do you encourage victims to go to court when it is so upsetting?
We encourage victims to report crimes because it helps reduce the risk of other people being assaulted. That being said, we do believe and state that reporting a crime is a personal decision to be made by the victim.