Facing Sexual Assault Charges? 4 Steps You Need To Take Right Away
If you've been arrested and charged with sexual assault, you need to act fast to protect your rights. You definitely need to avoid making mistakes that could cause additional trouble for you. Here are four steps that you need to take now that you're facing sexual assault charges.
Hire an Attorney Immediately
Sexual assault is a serious charge; one that you shouldn't attempt to fight on your own. If you're facing sexual assault charges, you need to hire a criminal defense attorney right away. There will be evidence to sort through and witnesses to find. One misstep in your defense could undermine your ability to receive a fair trial, which could result in an extended prison sentence. An experienced criminal defense attorney will work to provide you with the best defense possible.
Take Precautions With Your Communication
If you've been charged with sexual assault, you need to pay close attention to all your communication, especially communication that involves the charges against you. You may think that it's safe to reach out to potential witnesses or to members of the media. However, that's simply not the case. Any attempts at third-party communication regarding the case could land you in additional legal trouble. This is particularly true where the victim is involved. Even if you believe that you're innocent or that the charges are the result of a misunderstanding, do not attempt to contact the victim and avoid third-party communication.
Document Your Memories of the Event
As time passes, your memories of the events may not be as clear. Unfortunately, that lack of clarity can cause problems for you, especially where your defense is concerned. To make sure that your lack of clarity doesn't cause problems for you, document your memories of the event. As soon as you can, write down everything you remember about the event, including where you were, others who might have been present, and other recollections you may have. This information can help your attorney outline a defense for you.
Discontinue Your Social Media Activities
If you're facing sexual assault charges, discontinue your social media activities. The prosecution will be looking for any type of evidence that they can use against you, which could include posts and pictures that you've added to your social media pages. It's also important that you avoid deleting previous posts and pictures from your social media pages. The prosecution could use those deletions against you, as well.
For more information, contact a law firm like Wilder Law Firm.