How should crisis workers respond when a survivor does not want to press charges?

• A. Respect autonomy, provide information about options, ensure safety, document preferences, and revisit discussion later without pressure
• B. Pressure to press charges
• C. Stop safety planning
• D. Share details with others without consent

Answer: (A)

Center autonomy and safety. When a survivor does not want to press charges, crisis workers should honor that choice while clearly outlining available options and ongoing support. Provide complete information about paths the survivor could take—now or in the future—including reporting, legal protections, medical care, and advocacy services—without pressuring them toward any particular outcome. Assess immediate safety needs and help craft a personalized safety plan, then revisit the conversation later as readiness evolves. Document the survivor’s stated preferences to guide care and maintain continuity of support. This approach builds trust, respects the survivor’s control over their own decisions, and reduces the risk of retraumatization.

Coercing charges undermines autonomy and can heighten fear or danger. Skipping safety planning may leave the survivor more vulnerable. Sharing details without consent breaches confidentiality and can cause additional harm.