Conduct Case Reviews

Case Selections

Depending on caseloads and your SART's protocols or guidelines, opt for the following when selecting cases to review:

• Open or closed cases: Some SARTs, because of state regulations or protocols, only review cases that are not or will not be in civil or criminal litigation. Other jurisdictions review current cases for ways to enhance victim services or consider issues that could help with their investigation or prosecution.
• Types of sexual assault: Determine the types of cases that can be reviewed in allotted meeting times. For example, some jurisdictions review particular types of cases (stranger, non-stranger, or drug- and alcohol-facilitated assaults). Other teams just review complex cases or closed cases to evaluate the response. Still other jurisdictions are able to manage all the current caseloads for review.
• How often SARTs meet: Case review decisions can also be based on how often teams meet and how long teams are willing to meet. Do you plan to meet monthly, bimonthly, or on an "as needed" basis to review cases? Some teams regularly schedule case reviews during their regular team meetings. Others review cases only as needed (e.g., highly complex cases). The timing of reviews will depend, in part, on how many sexual assaults occur in your jurisdiction.