Being charged with any crime causes stress and anxiety. However, being falsely accused of a sexual assault or another sex crime in Texas has unique concerns. The stigma of being charged with a sex crime, even if you were innocent, can have life-altering consequences.
When you consider potential prison time, probation, fines, and the need to register as a sex offender, your future could be harmed significantly. Unfortunately, innocent people are accused of sexual assault every day. It is essential that you know what steps you should take to protect yourself in the future.
Immediate Steps to Take After Being Falsely Accused of a Sex Crime
It can be challenging to know what to do after you have been falsely accused. Nonetheless, it is important that you act quickly to protect yourself. The first step you should take is to immediately contact an experienced criminal defense attorney who has a proven track record of successfully defending people accused of sexual assault and other sex crimes.
Do Not Speak to the Police Without Your Attorney
Do not speak to the police without your attorney present. Under the Constitution’s Fifth Amendment, you have the right to remain silent. Even if the police officers act like they are on your side, anything you say can and will be used against you. It is crucial that you do not say anything to police officers that could be misconstrued or taken out of context and used against you to convict you of a crime you did not commit.
Write Down Everything You Remember
You should also write down everything you remember about the timeline of events leading up to the alleged sexual assault incident. It can be difficult to think of details when falsely accused, but this is crucial. No detail you remember is too small and could be important and useful for you and your attorney to defend yourself.
Write Down the Names of Witnesses
Depending on the facts of your case, there may have been witnesses to the alleged incident. These witnesses may be able to provide testimony showing that you were innocent and did not commit sexual assault or another sex crime. If any witnesses could testify on your behalf, write down their names and contact information.
Do Not Contact Your Accuser
It can be extremely tempting to reach out to the person who accused you and try to help them understand that you are innocent or ask them why they are falsely accusing you. Do not talk to or communicate with your accuser in any way. Doing so could be seen as harassment.
Do Not Discuss Details of Your Case with Anyone or on Social Media
It is also essential that you do not discuss your case on social media. It is an instinct to want to defend yourself against false accusations, but doing so could hurt you and your case in the long run.
Discuss Your Case With a Dallas Criminal Defense Attorney
If you have been accused of a sexual assault you did not commit, contact Abel Law Firm as soon as possible. We will provide you with the aggressive legal defense you need and deserve.
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