Prosecution staff should be expected to take a serious, victim-centered approach to sexual assault cases and to approach these crimes in a manner that restores the victim's dignity and sense of control while decreasing the victim's anxiety. All sexual assault cases, from misdemeanors to felonies, should be treated as serious cases. This Checklist is divided into sections that correspond with the roles and responsibilities of each prosecution professional involved in the office's overall response to a sexual assault case. The Checklist for the prosecutor's responsibilities is divided into the following general tasks: screen cases; conduct an interview with the victim; request pretrial release options; file or charge offenses; conduct a thorough investigation; conduct pretrial procedures and discovery; if appropriate, negotiate a plea; use trial strategies; address special issues related to drug-facilitated sexual assault cases; develop sentencing strategies; develop post-sentencing strategies; and address victim interests and safety issues throughout the process. The responsibilities of the victim/witness specialist encompass working with the prosecutor assigned to each case to service victim needs and participation in case processing. The supervisor is responsible for overseeing compliance with agency and interagency policy and procedures related to sexual assault, as well as data collection systems and procedures. The Checklist for the management response addresses the development of personnel policies to assist prosecutors; setting the tone through the development of protocols and practices, training, and other mechanisms; and providing leadership in the justice system and community initiatives to stop violence against women. 9 notes