First Encounters

We take a look at first encounters: with the justice system, with telling someone, and with the law. We’re looking beyond the headlines to the root issues underneath, and we’re exploring the first steps in the process for victims: disclosure and the decision to go to the police.  Key Topics 0:16 - Jane's personal disclosure story2:13 - Headlines of the #MeToo Era3:20 - Sexual assault statistics and underreporting5:32 - The justice system is not broken (because it has never worked)7:17 - Shannon's story: breaking five years of silence11:32 - Riley's experience: deciding not to go to the police after experiencing grooming12:20 - Georgia's experience: deciding not to go to the police after experiencing molestation12:58 - Cait's experience: eight years in the system13:45 - Victims' understanding of the legal system15:17 - Getting independent legal advice18:42 - What needs to change? All sources, statistics, multimedia clips, and music credits are available on Substack. About The DefendantsThe Defendants is a podcast exploring how sexual assault cases move through the justice system… and why it never seems to work in favour of victims. We want to know what has to change within the system for it to actually work, and we are interrogating what justice means in the aftermath of trauma. This is a podcast where we figure out exactly how this system fails, why, and what to do about it.Support This ProjectThanks for listening and being a part of this conversation. This is a completely grassroots, independent podcast. Your support directly funds our ability to continue. Subscribe to our Substack for additional content and ongoing conversations. We also have a mail club! Get monthly artwork and letters to continue the conversation… offline, where the best communities are built.Make a one-time donation. Visit: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedefendantsSubscribe to this show on your preferred podcast platform Apple | SpotifyShare with a friend and help grow the conversationGet in TouchQuestions or ideas about the show? [email protected] on Instagram: @thedefendantspodcast | @jane_aster_roeMedia appearances: [email protected] for SurvivorsSA Survivor Resource Document - This document contains Canadian, U.S, and global sources to find guidance, information, and aid for survivors of sexual assault. Detailed descriptions of each resource within the document.Our TeamJane Aster Roe - Executive Producer, HostRachel Arundel - Executive ProducerKatie Jensen - Executive Producer, Editor, Sound DesignerJessica Strachan - Story ProducerCharlotte Gregg - Research ProducerIsis Madrid - Editor, Sound DesignerRachel Bromberg - Fact CheckerDawson Fleming - Production AssistantMichelle Crossman - Mental Health ConsultantLindsey Keene - Outreach CoordinatorCheryl Grossman - LegalDalton Higgins - PublicityKathlyn Gardner - EventsThank you for listening. Be kind to yourself and to one another.