A sexual assault allegation is one of the most sensitive and severe legal matters anyone can face. The implications of a sexual assault charge can extend beyond the legal realm and affect your reputation, relationships, and mental well-being. Plus, the stigma of having a criminal record can affect your ability to get employment or housing for years to come.
A sexual assault conviction in Ontario can result in severe consequences. These include separation from your family, long-term imprisonment, registration as a sex offender, and mandatory supervision upon release. Because these charges are extremely serious, they require the expertise of a sexual offence lawyer in Mississauga. If you or someone you know has been charged with sexual assault, it is imperative to engage an experienced sexual assault lawyer as soon as possible.
Here are some insights from a leading sexual assault lawyer in Mississauga to help you effectively navigate your charges.
Sexual Assault Charges: Insights from a Top Sexual Offence Lawyer in Mississauga
Here, we look at ways to defend oneself against sexual assault offences in Mississauga.
1. Don’t Speak to the Police
When someone is accused of sexual assault, a common misconception is that they may get a lighter sentence if they work with or talk to the police. This is not the case. Your best course of action is to inform the police that you want to speak to a lawyer as soon as you are arrested or have your first interaction with them. If you are being detained or arrested, the police need to provide you with a phone call to contact a lawyer for legal advice. Be sure to ask the police if you are under arrest or simply being detained. If the answer is neither, you should leave as soon as possible.
When you speak to your sexual assault lawyer in Mississauga, they will advise you not to say anything to the police. This is because anything you say can be used against you if your case goes to trial. However, if the police keep questioning you, tell them that you want to exercise your right to remain silent under Section 7 of Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Also, let them know you will not respond to any questions.
2. Hire a Sexual Assault Lawyer
As mentioned, the best way to navigate a sexual assault charge is to hire an experienced sexual assault lawyer in Mississauga. This is applicable to suspects who think they are about to be charged and defendants who have been.
Remember, when you establish a relationship with a sexual offence lawyer in Mississauga, you tap into the experience and advice they’ve provided to others in similar situations. They also understand how law enforcement authorities will likely build a case against you.
With the legal counsel of a reputable sexual assault lawyer in Mississauga, suspects and defendants can avoid bad choices that may hurt them in the long run. While you may believe that getting legal representation right away is a sign or admission of guilt, this is a myth. By hiring a lawyer, you ensure that you are protected against unfortunate outcomes that may come with your sexual assault case in Mississauga.
3. Preserve All the Evidence You Can
An experienced sexual assault lawyer will tell you that preserving evidence is essential when facing charges related to sexual assault. The right evidence can be instrumental in defending yourself against the allegations and supporting your claims. An experienced sexual offence lawyer in Mississauga will emphasize the importance of gathering evidence that could establish your alibi or undermine the prosecution. This includes witness statements, receipts, phone records, and surveillance.
In situations where misconduct by police officers is alleged, it is important to preserve evidence such as witness testimonies or video recordings to reveal any wrongdoing. Sexual offence lawyers in Mississauga understand the nuances of such cases and can use this evidence to challenge the charges against you. Furthermore, a reputable lawyer will also advise their clients to avoid tampering with potential evidence, as it could negatively impact their defence or lead to additional charges. But by preserving the evidence, those facing sexual assault charges can greatly increase their chances of a good outcome.
Facing sexual assault charges is a daunting and life-altering experience. But with the guidance of an experienced sexual offence lawyer in Mississauga, those charged can better navigate this challenging situation. A skilled sexual assault lawyer will protect your rights and provide invaluable insights and strategies to build a strong defence. By preserving evidence, exercising your right to remain silent, and working with a good sexual offence lawyer in Mississauga from the start, you increase your chances of a favourable outcome and mitigate the potential consequences of these severe charges.