Can I sue for being falsely accused of sexual assault? Being falsely accused of sexual assault in Missouri is devastating, both legally and emotionally. It can damage your reputation, career, and personal relationships. Don’t hesitate or try to take this situation into your own hands. The Combs Waterkotte sexual assault defense attorneys want to help you understand your legal options when facing false accusations that could damage you.
Can I Sue For Being Falsely Accused of Sexual Assault in Missouri?
At Combs Waterkotte, we understand the toll false allegations take and are here to fight for justice on your behalf. Our skilled attorneys have over 40 years of experience and have successfully handled more than 10,000 cases just like yours. They can provide an aggressive defense by:
- Thoroughly Investigating the Accusations: Your lawyer will meticulously analyze the accuser’s claims, identifying contradictions and uncovering evidence that challenges their narrative.
- Building a Robust Defense: This involves building a strategic legal defense, excluding biased evidence, and leveraging expert testimony and witnesses to undermine the prosecution’s case.
- Protecting Your Rights: Your attorney will make sure law enforcement and prosecutors adhere to legal protocols, protecting your constitutional rights throughout the process—from your arrest to the conclusion of your case.
- Advocating in Court: From seeking dismissal of charges to presenting compelling arguments to the judge or jury, your legal team will conduct skillful cross-examinations and fiercely defend your case during trial.
If you are cleared of false sexual assault charges in Missouri, you may be able to sue for defamation—the act of making false statements that harm another individual’s reputation—or malicious prosecution, when someone initiates a criminal proceeding against another individual without probable cause and with malicious intent. Both are civil offenses, but we can provide attorney referrals for top-notch representation.
Steps to Take If You Are Falsely Accused of Sexual Assault in Missouri
Being falsely accused of sexual assault is a serious matter tha requires immediate and careful action. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Consult Combs Waterkotte Defense Attorney Immediately
Hire an experienced attorney who specializes in defending sexual assault cases in Missouri. The Combs Waterkotte legal team can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and develop a strong defense to challenge the evidence.
2. Remain Calm & Avoid Confrontation
Hearing your name accompanied by false accusations can be infuriating, but it’s critical to stay calm and let the process play out. Avoid discussing the case with anyone, even friends and family, other than your attorney. Anything you say could be twisted and/or taken out of context and used against you later.
3. Preserve Evidence & Document Everything
Save any communications, messages, pictures, videos, or other evidence related to the accuser or the relationship. Create a timeline of events while your memory is fresh, noting any witnesses who can corroborate your side of the story.
4. Maintain Your Support System
Facing false accusations can be isolating, but leaning on trusted family and friends for emotional support is vital. While they may not know specifics or be involved in the case, seeing as you’re not supposed to speak to them about it, their encouragement can help you stay strong during the legal battle.
What you should not do:
- Confront the Accuser: The prosecution might argue that any confrontation between you and the accuser amounts to witness tampering.
- Post on Social Media: You should avoid posting any frustrations anywhere online because prosecutors will use any public statements as evidence against you. Avoid social media until the case is over.
- Talk to the Police: The police can use anything you say against you. Let your defense attorney do all the talking.
- Represent Yourself: When you’re facing a false accusation, you could do more harm than good trying to go it alone. You need the knowledgeable Combs Waterkotte sexual assault defense attorneys handling your defense.
Been Falsely Accused of Sexual Assault in Missouri? Call Combs Waterkotte Right Away
False accusations can ruin lives. With the right lawyer and legal strategy on your side, along with a few proactive steps, you can fight back and clear your name. Call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a free, confidential consultation with an expert criminal defense attorney.
