The case is brought by the government, which is represented by the prosecutor (often referred to as the District Attorney or State’s Attorney). The prosecution is often referred to in court as the “people” or the “government”.

The case is initiated by the sexual assault victim, who in this context is known as the “plaintiff,” usually represented by a lawyer.

The victim chooses his/her own lawyer.

The defendant is accountable to the government.

The defendant is accountable to the victim.

The prosecutor is not the victim’s lawyer. The sexual assault victim is the government’s witness. The victim does not control the decisions that determine the shape of the case, including what, if any, charges will be brought or the terms of a negotiated plea bargain.

The victim controls all of the essential decisions that shape the case.

To judge whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty of committing a crime.

To judge whether the defendant is legally responsible for causing the plaintiff’s “injuries.”

The evidence must establish that the defendant is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The evidence must establish that the defendant is more likely than not responsible for the victim’s “injury.”

Upon a finding of guilt, to punish or rehabilitate the defendant.

This can be prison time (more than a year), jail time (less than a year), a term of probation, monetary restitution to the victim, a fine, an order of protection, or a combination of these.

Upon a finding of responsibility for the victim’s injuries, to provide monetary damages to the victim, injunctive relief (which prohibits the defendant from continuing a specified action), an order of protection, or a combination of these.