What Should I Do if Accused of a Sex Crime? Being accused of a sex crime is a terrifying experience. Sex crimes often carry long-term – if not permanent – consequences, including prison, online sex offender registry, living restrictions, loss of job, and an overall and overarching social stigma.
If you’ve been accused of or arrested for a sex crime, you need to speak with an expert sex crimes defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte immediately. Call (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation where you can discuss the specifics of your case with our criminal defense attorneys.
What Should I Do if Accused of a Sex Crime?
If you’re accused of a sex crime in St. Louis or anywhere else in Missouri, it’s vital to take immediate steps to protect yourself and your rights:
- Remain Silent: Do not speak to law enforcement, the alleged victim, or anyone else about the allegations without an attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Speak With an Attorney Right Away: Seek legal representation from a lawyer who specializes in sex crimes defense as soon as possible. The experienced Combs Waterkotte sex crime lawyers are available 24/7. Call now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
- Gather Evidence and Witnesses: Work with your attorney to collect any evidence that could support your defense, including documents, communications, and potential witnesses who can verify your version of events. Remember that if you’re arrested your phone and other devices will likely be seized, so make sure to backup any favorable evidence you have on cloud-based storage. This includes:
- Text Messages & Email
- Social Media Posts/Messages
- Photos
- Videos
- Written Notes or Letters
- Any Physical Injuries You Have
- Avoid Contact with Your Accuser: Refrain from contacting the alleged victim, either directly or indirectly through a mutual friend, as this could worsen your situation or be perceived as intimidation or harassment.
- Beware of Police Pressure Tactics: Law enforcement has several techniques to trick you into giving a statement. Officers are even allowed to lie to you to elicit incriminating information. Allow your lawyer to do all the talking as you will never gain anything by saying anything to the police.
- Follow Legal Advice: Adhere strictly to your attorney’s advice, whether it involves handling legal procedures, media inquiries, or managing your personal conduct throughout the case.
Combs Waterkotte knows that being subjected to a sex crime accusation is daunting. We’re here to help. Do whatever you can to protect yourself and your rights if you’ve been accused of a sex crime so that you can get the best possible outcome.
Call a skilled sex crimes lawyer at Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, no-obligation case review.
