Victim Advocate Program

The Florida A&M University Victim Advocate Program provides confidential, free support to

students who have experienced trauma related to interpersonal violence or distressing events.

Our mission is to promote safety, empower students with knowledge of their rights, and assist

in navigating university and community resources with compassion and professionalism.

CONTACT THE ADVOCATE:

Shauntavia Clinton, Coordinator

CC Cunningham Building, Room 306

1676 S Martin Luther King Jr Blvd

Tallahassee, Florida 32307

P: (850)599-8785

E: victimadvocate@famu.edu

Comprehensive Support Resources

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I. Prevention

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II. Resources

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III. FAQ's

Confidentiality

- While the Victim Advocate Program is confidential and exempt from Title IX reporting requirements,

assistance can be provided in reporting to Title IX and/or law enforcement if desired.

- Identifying information is not released to third parties without your permission.

- The advocate is still bound by Florida laws regarding mandatory reporting of abuse of vulnerable populations.

- If you are under the age of 18, a report may have to be filed with the state.

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Victim Flow Chart

Explore our FAQ's to find answers to common questions and gain valuable insights into various aspects of our services and resources. Please contact the advocate at 850-599-8785 for additional information.

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I'm not sure what happened to me is a crime or how to describe it. Can I still talk to the advocate?

Absolutely! The advocate will use language you're comfortable with when talking about what happened. Regardless of criminal law or your decision to report, the advocate is here to support you.

How long do I have to get a forensic examine done?

Refuge House will perform SANE exams up to five days (120 hours) after the violence happened. Whenever possible, these exams are done at the SAFE Center instead of a hospital. A trained nurse will collect evidence, look for injuries, and offer medications and tests for pregnancy and STIs.

Even if you decide not to have evidence collected, medical follow-up is available for free through Student Health Services. Please call the advocate at 850-599-8785 with any questions. Because Shauntavia is not a doctor or nurse, she may not be able to answer specific medical questions.

What is an injunction?

An injunction is Florida's legal term for a restraining order. The five types in Florida are sexual violence, stalking, domestic violence, dating violence, and repeat violence.
Injunctions are given through the civil court process, not criminal court. However, violating an injunction is a criminal offense.

The advocate can help you file for an injunction, go with you to court hearings, and refer you for free legal representation. Refuge House also has staff at the courthouse to assist with filing.

In addition to an injunction, you may be interested in a no contact order through the university. These orders can also be given if you don't have an injunction. Please reach out to Shauntavia with any questions.

How can I help my friend?

The most important thing you can do is believe your friend. Listen to them without judging or interrupting. Just knowing that you are there for them can make a big difference.

You can also reach out to the advocate with any questions. While Shauntavia cannot discuss details of your friend's case without your friend's written permission, she can answer general questions about supporting survivors, court, Title IX, etc.

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