What to Do When You Are Under Investigation for a Sex Crime
In California, sex crimes are heavily prosecuted and can lead to severe penalties if convicted. If you are under investigation for a sex crime, you should take steps to safeguard your rights and freedom. Just because you are being investigated does not mean your rights go away. Below, our attorneys detail the steps you should take if you have been accused of a sex crime.
Remain Silent
Under the U.S. Constitution, you have the right to remain silent when you are being investigated or arrested for a crime. You do not have to answer questions or produce any evidence that can be used against you in court. If you are under investigation for a sex crime, exercise your right to remain silent. Remember that law enforcement is trying to build a case against you, and anything you say can and will be used against you in trial. Even if you are trying to tell your side of the story or clear up a misunderstanding, it is best to wait until you secure a defense attorney before speaking up.
Hire an Attorney
You should hire an attorney as soon as you discover that you are the subject of a criminal investigation. When you are being investigated for a crime, you may feel lost and hopeless. However, an experienced criminal defense attorney can lessen your worries and guide you through the entire process. Your lawyer will know exactly what your rights are and how to protect them. Additionally, should your case go to trial, your attorney will know the most effective defenses to get your charges reduced or even dismissed.
Gather Evidence
With the help of your attorney, you should begin to gather evidence as soon as possible. This evidence could come in the form of witnesses, communications, and records of your whereabouts. These records could support your alibi and verify that you were unable to commit the alleged crime. Do not delete any messages or other evidence that may be linked to the allegations, even if they appear incriminating. Otherwise, police may interpret this as a sign of guilt or charge you with tampering with evidence.
Avoid Contact with Alleged Victim
It might be tempting to contact the alleged victim to try to tell your side of the story and dissuade them from pressing charges. However, this is unwise because it could be seen as an effort to intimidate or pressure the alleged victim into dropping the charges. The alleged victim may also report any attempted contact to law enforcement, strengthening the case against you. Instead, make sure all communications are done through your attorney.
Contact Wallin & Klarich Today
If you are under investigation for an alleged sex crime, contact Wallin & Klarich as soon as possible to see how we can help. At Wallin & Klarich, we understand how tough these cases can be, and we will do everything in our power to protect your rights and freedom. With 40+ years of experience, our attorneys have helped thousands of clients successfully win their sex crimes cases, and we have the skills and resources to help you avoid hefty fines and jail time.
With offices in Orange County, Riverside, San Bernardino, Victorville, Torrance, West Covina, Los Angeles, and San Diego, you are sure to find an available and convenient attorney near you.
Discover how our team can assist you. Contact us today, toll-free at (877) 4-NO-JAIL or (877) 466-5245 for a free consultation with a skilled defense attorney.
