Are you being charged with sexual assault? If so, you should know that it’s a serious criminal allegation that needs immediate action. In most parts of the world, including Canada, sexual offence is regarded as a severe crime with grave legal consequences. Depending on the nature and severity of the offence, the penalties may range from heavy fines to putting the offender behind the bars. Apart from this, if the accused is found guilty, they can face further limitations like not holding public office or employment, hampered social life, and the destruction of their reputation. In certain cases, they may also be prohibited from obtaining a licensed gun or even leaving the country. With so much at stake, it’s best to seek the help of a criminal defence lawyer right away.
Here’s how hiring a legal professional can maximize your chances of fair representation in court when charged with a sexual offence.
How a Criminal Defence Attorney Can Help You Fight Sexual Charges
Expert at Your Side
By seeking the advice of an experienced criminal defence lawyer, you’ll be able to fully know your legal rights and responsibilities. Such an attorney has knowledge about the justice system and courtroom procedures. They’ll help you avoid legal mistakes and ensure you receive the best outcome possible. Even a simple case can become complicated without their intervention. Your future and reputation may be at risk and you have one chance to prove your innocence. After all, it is your right to have your attorney by your side during any questioning by the law enforcement.
Defence Against False Charges
Not everyone charged with a sexual crime is guilty. Quite often, false accusations occur. Mistakes are made and the wrong person is charged. Sometimes, the victim may be mistaken. False allegations may also arise from extramarital affairs as a ploy to extract money from the accused. The lawyer will investigate the case, learn the accuser’s background, their relationship with the accused, and other relevant information to defend you against the charges. In the absence of a legal professional by your side, you can fall prey to false accusations. Remember, a just and detailed investigation can mean all the difference between a conviction and an acquittal.
Risk Mitigation by Taking Prompt Action
Waiting is detrimental to any criminal case proceedings. The sooner you respond to the allegations and take the initiative to defend yourself against them, the higher are your chances getting off the charges. If you take the case proceedings lightly, the prosecutors will have more time to strategize and strengthen their case against you. Hiring a criminal defence lawyer will help you mitigate the risks involved and take prompt actions to speed up the case proceedings.
Trained Staff to Do Important Work
Legal documentation is not a layman’s job. This is almost impossible to do yourself when you’re already facing sexual assault charges. Lawyer’s specializing in criminal defence have their own teams of qualified people to help them with each of these complex tasks. Apart from drafting the necessary documents, they are also responsible for collecting important evidence, finding key case witnesses, and interrogating them. You can concentrate on other pressing issues related to the case while the lawyer and their team draft the legal submissions.
Bringing Case Objectivity
Another reason to hire a criminal defence attorney is to bring objectivity to your case. Considering the amount of pain, fear and uncertainty related to sexual accusations, the defendant might not be in the right emotional state to handle the charges facing them. Case objectivity means that the lawyer represents you and is in a better position to take the necessary legal steps.
Whether you’re being investigated or charged with a sexual offence, you need a criminal lawyer who understands the complexities of Canada’s sexual law. An experienced professional will work prudently and discreetly in protecting your best interests.