What is the significance of consent when sharing victim information with non-prosecution partners?

• A. It governs how much information can be disclosed; ensure consent is informed and voluntary, and limit disclosures to necessary parties.
• B. Consent is not necessary when sharing with partners.
• C. Consent is only needed for minor victims.
• D. Consent must be obtained after the disclosure.

Answer: (A)

Consent defines how victim information can be shared with non-prosecution partners. It ensures that only the necessary information is disclosed and only to those who need it to provide services, safety planning, or support. The consent must be informed and voluntary, meaning the survivor understands what will be shared, with whom, for what purpose, and how it will be used, and agrees without pressure. This approach protects the survivor’s privacy and autonomy, reduces the risk of re-traumatization or harm, and helps build trust in a multidisciplinary response. Consent can also be revisited or revoked if the survivor’s situation changes, reinforcing that sharing is bound by the survivor’s rights and preferences.