According to research, studies have shown that the false reporting of sex crimes is statistically low. However, that does not mean they never happen. If you have been falsely accused of sexual assault, it can be an appalling and overwhelming experience. In most cases, those falsely accused ignore the allegations, hoping they will eventually go away. This is not wise as it can make you seem guilty. Unfortunately, there are several reasons why a person might accuse you of a sex crime you did not commit. Regardless of the reasoning, taking the necessary steps to respond to allegations will maximize your chances of proving your innocence. Please continue reading and contact a seasoned Baldwin County Criminal Defense Lawyer who can help you navigate this difficult time and protect your rights.
How should I respond to false sexual assault allegations?
If you have falsely been accused of a sex crime you did not commit, it is imperative to refrain from ignoring the charges simply because they are false. Sexual assault charges can have devastating lifelong consequences. Taking the necessary steps to respond to the allegations is critical to protect yourself. The first thing you should do is hire a qualified defense lawyer. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you navigate the charges brought against you and advise you on how to best proceed under the circumstances.
After you’ve retained the legal services of a qualified attorney, you should write down what you can recall of the incident and make a list of witnesses that can corroborate your version of the events. Collecting supporting evidence can help you disprove their accusations.
Should I try to defend myself?
Understandably, you may be tempted to defend yourself by explaining your version of the events that could have led to the accusation. However, you should avoid contacting your accuser, which worsens your situation. After you’ve been accused, everything you say can be used against you. Therefore, you should only discuss matters with your lawyer.
Furthermore, as your emotions are running high, you should keep them in check. Although it can be a frightening experience, do not let your feelings get the best of you, as they can cause you to say or do things in public that can be used against you. You should avoid seeing any of the accuser’s friends or family to prevent an outburst, as it will help you mitigate the risks of a confrontation. Removing trigger points that could cause you to lose control of your emotions will protect you from providing the accuser with evidence of wrongdoing after charges have been brought.
If you have been falsely accused of sexual assault, contact a determined Baldwin County criminal defense lawyer from The Law Office of James M. Burns, who can help you determine the best course of action and effectively fight for you.