Being accused of any sort of crime can be nerve-wracking, but it’s especially stressful to be accused of a sexual offence. These kinds of crimes not only have legal implications, but can also often carry significant social and professional consequences, too.
As such, it’s normal for anyone facing sexual offences to feel stressed, overwhelmed, and unsure of what to do next. In this post, we’ll run through some recommended tips on what to do if you’re accused of a sexual crime, including getting in touch with a serious crime lawyer, avoiding social media, and investing in your self-care.
Are you being investigated or charged with a sexual offence? Get in touch with a sexual offences lawyer today by calling ABV Solicitors at 0344 587 9996.
Seek Legal Help
Getting in touch with a legal defence team as soon as possible is essential for putting together the best possible defence. A reputable rape and sexual assault lawyer can offer invaluable advice and guidance at all stages of the proceedings, including during the initial police interview stage. Given the seriousness of these crimes, many defendants often panic and end up weakening their defence; having an experienced lawyer who understands the legal system by your side can help prevent errors that may have long-lasting impacts.
Avoid Making Things Worse
It’s natural that a person would wish to defend themselves against claims that have been made against them, especially if they’re of a serious nature, such as being accused of committing a sexual offence.
However, their desire to clear their name can often result in actions that hurt their defence. While it can be difficult, it’s essential to show discipline and avoid getting in touch with the person who has made the accusation. Even though you may feel wronged, communicating with the other person may be seen as intimidation. Even the most innocent of communications can be taken out of context and hurt your credibility.
As well as avoiding speaking with the person making the accusation, it’s also vital to avoid posting on social media. It’s possible that whatever you post — even things that have nothing to do with the case — may be used by the prosecution. Plus, it’s simply easier to launch a well-rounded, solid defence when the defendant adheres to strict confidentiality.
Preserve Evidence
The outcome of criminal cases is dependent on the weight of the evidence presented. In the immediate aftermath of being accused of a sexual offence, it’s important to preserve as much evidence as possible.
This can include doing things like writing down detailed versions of the events while they’re fresh. Having as much information as possible is key for launching a good defence. You should also make copies of any communications that may be relevant, such as text messages, emails, social media messages, and audio/video files.
Taking steps to preserve evidence as soon as possible prevents it from being lost/irretrievable before it can be submitted.
Be Mindful of Speaking to the Police
It’s common for people who have been accused of a sexual offence to volunteer more information than is necessary in a bid to clear their name. People usually do this because they’re scared of the potential repercussions of their arrest, and simply want to make the problem go away as soon as possible.
When speaking with the police, this intention to clear their name can result in the individual saying something that is ultimately used against them by the prosecution. Remember, while the police may act as if they are just having an informal conversation with you, the fact is that the entire interview is likely to be recorded. It should be treated as a formal legal proceeding, and for that reason, it’s essential to have a sexual offences lawyer with you. Until they’re there, it’s best to simply stay quiet.
Managing Employment Issues
Many people who are accused of a sexual offence are concerned not only with the legal implications, but also the broader consequences, such as how it may impact their professional life.
It’s vital to take steps to ensure that your legal matter doesn’t impact your professional standing any more than it needs to. Before speaking to your employer about the case, it’s recommended to review the company’s handbook (if there is one) to see if there is a policy relating to arrests. You may be obligated to tell them, or you might not. In either case, it’s best to speak to your lawyer before doing so.
If news about the accusation reaches the workplace, it’s best to remain as quiet as possible. Discussing or attempting to explain what has happened will likely just make things worse — instead, inform your colleagues, should they ask, that you’re dealing with a legal matter that you’re unable to discuss.
Look After Yourself
Taking care of yourself is paramount when dealing with any sort of legal matter, but it’s vital when dealing with a sexual offence accusation, which offers high levels of emotional and mental distress.
Treating self-care as a priority is essential for ensuring that you can face the accusation with strength and determination. There’s no shortage of ways to look after yourself, including committing to regular exercise, speaking with a therapist or trusted friend, staying away from things that may worsen your mental well-being (such as alcohol), and leaning on your support system. There are things about the accusation that you can’t control, and as such, it’s best to focus on the things that you can.
Fight Your Corner
Finally, remember that an accusation is just that — an accusation. Fighting your corner is the most effective way to limit the damage and wrestle back as much control as you can. To do that, it’s important to work with a serious crime lawyer who has a proven track record of success. At ABV Solicitors, our team of legal experts is on hand to provide the experience and expertise you need to beat the accusations. Get in touch to schedule a consultation by calling 0344 587 9996.
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