May 14, 2023 | Sex Crimes

False accusations of sexual assault can have life-altering consequences. A mere allegation can harm one’s reputation and relationships, and put their livelihood at risk. In many instances, people have been wrongfully imprisoned for crimes they did not commit. 

The consequences are severe and far-reaching, so it is important to understand what a false accusation of sexual assault means, its seriousness, and the best ways to defend yourself against it. 

Consider taking the following steps:

Exercise Your Right To Remain Silent

If you ever find yourself being falsely accused of sexual assault, remember that you have the right to remain silent and ask for legal representation; anything you say could be used against you in court. You cannot talk yourself out of an accusation, but silence can help prevent further harm to your defense.  

Hire an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer

The next thing you need to do is hire an experienced lawyer to help defend you. Your lawyer will provide legal guidance and help you navigate the complex legal system. 

Sex crime cases are complicated and nuanced, so it’s crucial that you hire a lawyer who has experience with these types of cases specifically. It’s not enough to just hire a lawyer with criminal defense experience.

Gather Evidence Proving Your Innocence

Collecting evidence is another crucial element in defending yourself against false accusations of sexual assault. You must gather any evidence that proves your innocence. This evidence could include text messages, call logs, or anything else that shows you were somewhere else at the time of the alleged assault. 

Make sure to keep all evidence in a secure place in case you need it in court.

Establish an Alibi

When an accuser claims that you assaulted them, they’re essentially saying that you were present at the time and place of the incident. An alibi witness can refute these claims by proving that you were somewhere else at the time. 

If you have any witnesses or can produce evidence, such as video footage or a credit card statement, it would be incredibly helpful.

Stay Calm and Composed

Being falsely accused of sexual assault can trigger intense emotions such as anger, frustration, and shame. However, you must remain calm and composed throughout your legal journey. 

Maintaining your composure can be challenging, but it is critical to remember that losing your temper can hurt your case and make your situation worse. Your behavior in the courtroom can also affect the judge and jury’s view of you.

Build a Support Network

Being accused of sexual assault can be isolating, but you don’t have to face it alone. Build a support network of friends, family, or professionals who can provide you with emotional support and guidance during this challenging time. 

Talking to others who have gone through similar challenges can also be helpful. Remember, having a support network can make all the difference in navigating your way through this hard process.

Don’t Post About Your Sexual Assault Case Online

Never post about the case online or discuss it with anyone other than your attorney. Posting about the case on social media or talking to anyone about the accusations can risk compromising your case. 

A single damaging post can be used against you in court and can put your defense in jeopardy. 

Do Not Talk To Your Accuser

If you have been accused of sexual assault, do not talk to the accuser without a lawyer present. It can be tempting to talk to them and try to get them to drop the charges, especially if you know they aren’t true. However, anything you say can and will be used against you in court. You could even face additional charges, like intimidation of a witness. 

Be Open to Plea Deals

While it may be tempting to go to trial to prove your innocence, that may not always be the best option. In some cases, accepting a plea deal can be the better option. If you accept a plea deal, you could potentially avoid the stigma of being labeled a sex offender and escape the more severe punishment that comes with a sexual assault conviction.

Contact a Lexington Sexual Assault Lawyer for Help Proving Your Innocence

For help with a sexual assault allegation, contact an experienced Lexington sexual assault attorney for a free consultation.

For more information, contact the DUI attorneys at Suhre & Associates, LLC give us a call today at (859) 569-4014 or visit us at our Lexington law office.

Suhre & Associates, LLC – Lexington
333 West Vine Street #212
Lexington, KY 40507
United States