What Should You Do If You Have Been Accused of Sexual Abuse
There are many things that you should do to protect your rights, case, and, ultimately, your freedom when you have been accused of sexual abuse or any kind of sex crime in Tennessee. But one of the first and most critical things you should do is to talk to a Murfreesboro, TN, sexual abuse attorney as soon as you can.
Speak to a Murfreesboro, TN, Sexual Abuse Attorney
Ideally, you should do so upon learning of the sexual abuse allegations against you or after getting arrested for or charged with a sexual offense. Keep in mind that crimes involving sexual abuse are usually felonies. A felony conviction carries harsh penalties, including imprisonment, hefty fines, getting listed in the Sex Offender Registry, and various collateral consequences.
Your Murfreesboro, TN, sexual abuse attorney will help you understand:
- The charges against you
- The specific penalties of a conviction
- Your legal options
- The specific things you should and should not do to protect your case
They will also start working on your case right away to secure the best possible outcome for you. If you haven’t discussed your case with an attorney yet, it’s in your best interest to do so now. Meanwhile, here are other things you should do if you have been accused of sexual abuse.
Do Not Talk to Anyone, Especially The Police, Without Your Attorney Present
At this point, you probably don’t know the exact allegations against you and the evidence the police have. They will say that they just have some questions that you should answer so you can clear your name or have the chance to tell your story. However, you must not agree to any interviews or sign anything without the advice or presence of your Murfreesboro, TN, sexual abuse attorney.
It is also not a good idea to speak to your family, friends, or anyone else about your case because the prosecution may use them to testify against you. You should only talk about your case with your attorney.
Stop Any Communication With The Accuser
Do not call, send messages, or talk to your accuser, even to apologize or try and smooth things out with them. Your accuser can use your apology and attempts to resolve things as evidence against you in court. Stopping all communications with the accuser is especially crucial if they have filed an Order of Protection against you.
Even if they would like to communicate with you willingly, inform your attorney and ensure all communications with the accuser are made through them. Otherwise, you could be held in violation of the order, which can lead to your arrest and imprisonment, on top of the potential penalties of a sex crime conviction.
Do Not Post Anything on Social Media
Don’t post anything about your case on your social media accounts and use messaging apps to talk about it. The police and prosecution will scour your online accounts, or someone might screenshot a post or message and use it as evidence against you.
Discuss Your Case With Our Seasoned Murfreesboro, TN, Sexual Abuse Attorney Now
Facing a sexual abuse charge? Fill out our online contact form or schedule your case review with our Murfreesboro, TN, sexual abuse attorney, Joshua T. Crain, by calling 615-848-2088.