Art. 15. - Once the public prosecution for the offences referred to in this law has been initiated, no victim shall be removed from the national territory until a final decision has been taken on the public prosecution and the civil action. Victims of the offences referred to in this law may apply to remain on national territory temporarily or permanently, with resident or refugee status, in accordance with relevant laws in force. Art. 16. - Victims of the offences referred to in this law who are particularly vulnerable or minors shall be assisted before the investigating and trial courts by a lawyer of their choice or appointed by the court. Art. 17 - In case of civil action, the public prosecutor may make a request that minor victims who do not have a known legal representative or who do not present guarantees for the protection of the rights and well-being of the child be placed under guardianship or legal administration. The appointed guardian or administrator shall defend responsibly the interests of the victim. The associations or public services that provide assistance for victims may, at their request or ex officio, represent them in court. This law shall be executed as a law of the State. Dakar, 10 May 2005