Sex crime claims rank among the top of those that can have personal and legal peril. A conviction could impact your liberty and ability to maintain relationships, employment, or reputation. It can also navigate through the law quickly.
Talking with a Sex Crimes Defense Attorney as soon as you are under investigation or charged will help explain what you are dealing with and how to best proceed.
An Accusation Does Not Become a Conviction
Accusation does not mean proof on behalf of the prosecution. Under the relevant statute, the government usually has to prove each element of the entity for which it is tries.
There can be a huge discrepancy between the allegations in sex crimes. In some cases, offenses such as statutory sexual assault, indecent exposure, or certain internet-related violations fall under this category. Penalties for misdemeanors can be more severe in some cases but lesser in others, depending on the particular charge, and facts of a case.
This is why you should never expect every case to go down the same road.
Scope of Analysis for a Criminal Defense Attorney
A defense lawyer does not see just the accusation. The particulars of an investigation can influence critical questions about evidence a prosecutor may present.
An attorney will consider, depending on the case:
- Accused or witness statements
- Police reports and investigative records
- Digital communications
- Medical or forensic evidence
- The timeline of reported events
- If the proper legal process was followed
It can inform you as to which defenses or possibly defenses may be available.
Be Careful About What You Say
Perhaps the most common mistake is attempting to explain every detail of your situation directly to investigators or any other involved parties without first seeking legal counsel.
Statements can be misinterpreted, used without full context, or even considered as evidence. Seek to correct confusion, and complications arise.
If investigators reach out to you regarding the possibility of an offense, consult a sex crimes defense attorney before answering any substantive questions. You must also refrain from talking about the case in public or posting on social media regarding the situation.
Evidence Over Assumptions will Matter Most
Allegations of sex crimes can be extremely emotional things. However, criminal courts need proof.
Your lawyer can determine if any of the evidence supports the allegations, and whether or not there are discrepancies that merit your attention. The defense maneuvers the evidence, possibly agreeing with prosecutors or readying for trial only if needed.
Facts will depend on the right approach. There is a range of universally applicable defense strategies.
The First Step is to Protect Your Future
A criminal case gets you results that echo beyond the court. Other serious charges result in harsh sentencing and have longer-lasting consequences.
By seeking legal advice early give you a chance to know the charges, deadlines, chances of success, and possible options.
Never Go Against the Accusation Alone
When you are accused of a sex crime, panic can cause people to make poor decisions. Don´t destroy evidence, do not contact an alleged victim in violation of an order, and do not post anything on social networks of the case.
Rather, you should just keep hold of any relevant information and get appropriate legal advice. The sex crimes defense attorney can review the allegations with you, outline your constitutional protections, and assist in making informed choices as your case develops.