Medical Resources
Forensic Exam
What is it?
The Sexual Assault Forensic Exam, also called a ‘rape kit’, is an exam that checks for and documents physical evidence of sexual battery, sexual assault, or rape, and may be conducted up to 5 days after the incident. To best preserve evidence, one should not bathe, shower, brush teeth, or go to the bathroom until after the forensic exam. Evidence from a forensic exam can be used in prosecuting sexual assault cases through the criminal justice system.
Where can I get a forensic exam?
Rape Treatment Center at UCLA Medical Center, Santa Monica (RTC) is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. RTC provides general medical treatment, collection of evidence, provides long term counseling support for victims of sexual violence, as well as advocacy and accompaniment services.
LMU offers free and confidential rides to and from RTC 24/7. Request a ride by calling the Department of Public Safety’s Emergency Line by dialing 222 on campus or (310) 338-2893 and an officer will escort you there.
- Location: 1250 16th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90404
- Phone: (424) 259-7208
How does it work?
Everytime someone comes in for a medical examination, it is required that the nurse contacts the local police. If you have not yet had any interface with law enforcement, the nurse will call the police and tell them that a crime occurred. The police will come and ask the survivor if they'd like to file a police report. If they do want to report, they can do it in conjunction with the forensic interview that the nurse takes so that the survivor doesn't have to repeat their story more than once. You will also be connected to one of the clinicians and a counselor who can let you know what to expect next and help walk you through the process. If you choose to, the counselor will follow-up with you intermittently to check in with how you're doing both medically and emotionally.
How are forensic exams used?
After the exam, the Nurse Examiner will document the findings in a medical record, which can later be subpoenaed to assist in the legal process. You can ask RTC to hold onto your evidence for an unlimited amount of time.
Do I need to pay for it?
All services at RTC are completely free. If you go elsewhere, forensic exams are paid for by the local jurisdiction (through California Victim's Services), not by you. If you receive additional medical assessments or treatments, you may need to pay for them personally or through insurance.
Can I have someone with me?
You can have a support person (or people) of your choice such as a friend, family member, or advocate accompany you throughout the medical care process. If you go to the RTC, they will assign you a counselor.
Back to topMedical Centers
The Rape Treatment Center at Santa Monica-UCLA Medical Center (RTC) is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. RTC provides general medical treatment and collection of evidence, and also provides long term counseling support for victims of sexual assault and sexual violence as well as advocacy and accompaniment services.
LMU offers free and confidential rides to and from RTC at any time of day or night. Just call the Department of Public Safety’s Emergency Line by dialing 222 on campus or (310) 338-2893 x1 and an officer will escort you there.
- Location: 1250 16th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90404
- Phone: (310) 319-4000
Marina Del Rey Hospital offers 24-hour emergency services. LMU offers free and confidential rides to and from the hospital at any time of day or night. Just call the Department of Public Safety’s Emergency Line by dialing 222 on campus or (310) 338-2893 x1 and an officer will escort you there.
- Location: 4650 Lincoln Boulevard, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
- Phone: (310) 823-8911 Ext. 5100
