Content updated on October 15, 2024.
Sexual or spousal violence has a devastating effect on its victims. Fortunately, there are resources to help you get out of the situation and to rebuild after having lived through it.
The multiple faces of spousal violence
Unlike the simple conflicts that can happen within a couple, spousal violence is intentional. The violent partner seeks to dominate or control the victim by causing the person harm repeatedly. The abuser may insult, threaten, hit or humiliate the victim, or prevent him or her from going out or from working outside the home.
Sexual violence occurs when someone forces or tries to force another person into a sexual act. If the aggressor is a spouse, it is a form of spousal violence.
Ending the cycle of violence
If you believe that you are a victim of spousal violence, there are several free resources that can help you.
1. Talk about it.
Anonymous, confidential and bilingual, these resources are available 24 hours a day. They can also refer you to other services such as shelters:
- SOS violence conjugale: by phone (1-800-363-9010), text message (438 601-1211), chat or email;
- Sexual Violence Helpline: by phone (1-888-933-9007) or chat;
- Interligne (sexual or gender diversity): by phone (1-808-505-1010), text message (514 866-0103), chat or email.
Is your safety or your life at risk? For urgent help, call 9-1-1.
2. Get support.
To file a complaint, take legal steps or rebuild your life, you have access to support services:
- Centre d’aide aux victimes d’actes criminels (CAVAC)
- Regroupement québécois des centres d’aide et de lutte contre les agressions à caractère sexuel (RQCALACS)
- Regroupement des maisons pour femmes victimes de violence conjugale (RMFVVC)
- Fédération des maisons d’hébergement pour femmes (FMHF)
Did you know that victims of spousal or sexual violence can have their lease cancelled, without being penalized, even if they haven’t filed a police report? For questions about your rights, legal aid is available through the Rebâtir program. All victims of spousal or sexual violence can receive 4 hours of free legal counsel.
3. Check to see whether you can obtain compensation.
If you have been the victim of a criminal offence, you may qualify for financial assistance. Contact Indemnisation des victimes d’actes criminels (IVAC).
It’s never too late to apply for compensation. When a criminal offence involves spousal or sexual violence, there is no time limit imposed for seeking recourse.
Dissatisfied with the services received?
Do you feel that IVAC has not granted you the financial assistance you qualify for? Lodge a complaint with the Protecteur du citoyen. Our services are confidential and free.
Does your complaint have to do with legal aid? Contact the office concerned or the Commission des services juridiques (CSJ). If you were refused legal aid, you can ask the CSJ’s review committee to have another look at the decision.
Also see:
Filing a complaint after a sexual assault: what you can do
Victims of spousal or sexual violence: the law protects you
