How to Respond to Sex Crime Accusations

 Posted on May 08, 2024 in Criminal Defense

The state of Illinois takes sex crimes accusations very seriously. The charges and sentences you might face could affect you for the rest of your life. Even if you are innocent and have been falsely accused, there are some steps you should take as soon as you know that an accusation has been made against you. Following these steps after an accusation can have a significant impact on the outcomes and can make a huge difference to your future. If you are accused of criminal sexual assault, speak with a dedicated Cook County, IL sex crimes defense attorney who can guide you throughout the process and fight aggressively to ensure that your rights are protected.

Step 1: Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

Being accused of any crime can be an awful experience. It is reasonable to feel nervous, stressed, and afraid. You might want to seem helpful and cooperative to the police who are questioning you. You might even want to offer your side of the story, especially if you believe you are innocent. However, it is imperative that you remain silent. Unless you have a lawyer present, you are not obligated to answer any questions, and you should make an effort not to. Being suspected by the authorities of committing criminal sexual assault can be intimidating, and they might confuse you with offers of leniency if you cooperate. Unfortunately, without legal knowledge and an understanding of interrogations and their consequences, you could easily say something that can be used against you later on. You have a constitutional right to keep your mouth shut, so there is no reason not to.

Step 2: Avoid Contact With Your Accuser

The accuser might be a complete stranger, a casual acquaintance, or someone you are close with and have frequent interactions with. Regardless of your dynamic with this person, make sure to stay away until the accusations have been investigated and hopefully dismissed. If you cannot fully avoid seeing this person - if, for example, you are classmates, coworkers, or take the same train on your morning commute - do whatever you can to avoid contact with them. Even if they approach you, your interaction could be falsely portrayed as an attempt by you to harass or intimidate them.

Step 3: Hire Reliable and Experienced Legal Counsel

As you try to navigate a criminal accusation, having an accomplished lawyer by your side can make all the difference. The legal process is unfamiliar to first-time offenders, and there are also many subjective factors that could sway the outcome. Armed with knowledge and understanding of the process, based on a proven track record from similar cases, a lawyer can build an aggressive defense and protect your rights.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Chicago, IL Defense Attorney

If you are accused of criminal sexual assault, make sure you have a qualified Cook County, IL defense attorney guiding you throughout the process. At Law Offices of James F. DiQuattro, we believe in protecting our clients’ rights, and we will fight hard to defend you. Call 312-627-9482 to schedule a free consultation.