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Legal Information & Referrals

Helpful resources for sexual assault victims looking for legal help.

Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS)

The following sections of Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes provide legal definitions, protections, and criminal offenses related to sexual violence, privacy, victim rights, and trafficking.

  • HRS §707-700 – Definitions
    Defines key terms used in sexual offense laws, including consent, sexual contact, and sexual penetration.

  • HRS Chapter 707, Part V – Sexual Offenses
    Covers crimes such as sexual assault, continuous sexual assault of a minor, and related offenses.

  • HRS Chapter 844G – Sexual Assault Evidence Collection Kits
    Establishes procedures for the collection, tracking, and preservation of sexual assault kits.

  • HRS Chapter 801D – Rights of Victims and Witnesses in Criminal Proceedings
    Outlines protections and rights afforded to victims and witnesses throughout the legal process.

  • HRS §711-1110.9 – Violation of Privacy
    Addresses offenses such as unauthorized recording or distribution of private images.

  • HRS Chapter 712, Part I – Prostitution, Promoting Prostitution, and Sex Trafficking
    Defines and criminalizes prostitution-related offenses and human trafficking activities.

The National Center for Victims of Crime

This organization advises crime victims on finding and selecting an attorney. They also provide crime victims information on the availability of civil remedies for their case. Visit the website: www.victimsofcrime.org. 

For attorney referrals call: 202-467-8716

The Hawai'i Statewide Automated Victim Information and Notification System (SAVIN)

SAVIN offers crime victims and concerned citizens free, anonymous, and confidential access to information and notification on the custody and parole status of offenders under the jurisdiction of the State of Hawaiʻi’s Department of Public Safety. Visit the Hawai'i SAVIN website.

Hawai'i SAVIN Service Number: 1-877-VINE4HI (or 1-877-846-3444)

TTY Services for the Hearing Impaired: 1-866-847-1298

Legal Aid Society of Hawai‘i

Legal Aid Society of Hawaiʻi helps with a variety of legal issues, such as housing, family law, immigration, public benefits, and consumer rights, but not criminal or personal injury matters. They provide legal forms and brochures; information about legal rights and how to solve legal problems, and representation for low-income people. Visit the website www.legalaidhawaii.org.

  • O'ahu: 808-536-4302

  • Neighbor Islands 1-800-499-4302

Crime Victim Compensation Commission

This organization provides compensation to victims of certain law enforcement-reported violent crimes, including sexual assault, for their crime-related injuries and losses. Compensation can help to alleviate physical, mental, and financial hardships suffered by victims. Visit the website, dps.hawaii.gov/cvcc/, or call 808-587-1143, for more information about eligibility, compensation benefits, and how to apply.