Being accused of a sexual offence can be an extremely distressing experience that can impact both you and your loved ones. If you find yourself in this challenging situation, you should be prepared to act to protect your reputation, especially if the allegation lacks reliability.
Deeply personal and intricate details can arise from the specifics of a sexual offence claim, and its allegations can cause further consequences in the long term. Here, we advise on what to do if you’re accused of a sexual offence and how instructing a sexual offence solicitor can help you through this challenging time.
What if you’re accused of a sexual offence?
In most cases, allegations of a sexual offence come shortly after the supposed incident, but it is crucial to understand that there is no set timeframe for when someone can come forward. In some cases, someone may come forward years later to report a crime—this is known as a historical offence.
No matter when the offence allegedly occurred, law enforcement must treat claims seriously once they are made aware, meaning they will investigate the alleged suspect. Firstly, the police will gather as much evidence as possible surrounding the offence and then interview the accuser. In recent cases, they may also collect physical samples. If you find yourself in this situation, you must not contact the accuser once you know you are under investigation.
What if the police approach you for questioning?
If you are facing accusations of a sexual nature, the police may approach you voluntarily for questioning. If this happens, the first thing you should do before making any statement is contact a team of sexual offence solicitors who can liaise with the police, set up a suitable interview time and ensure your rights remain protected throughout the process.
You have the right to legal representation during questioning at the police station should the police decide to arrest you. We strongly advise you not to endure the interview process alone—having a specialist lawyer on your side from the outset will ensure the best possible outcome for your circumstances.
How can a sexual offence solicitor help?
A sexual offence solicitor can handle interactions with the police and relevant agencies. With your best interests in mind, they can establish communication channels with the officer overseeing the case and ensure you are aware of and understand the accuser’s account of the events that led to the allegations.
When seeking specialised expertise in sexual offences, Draycott Brown’s team of Sexual Offence Solicitors are highly regarded across England and Wales and noted for consistently delivering positive results for their clients.
Receiving legal representation of this calibre gives you the advantage of getting full disclosure, assuring no surprises throughout the interview process, and the best advice; this cannot be guaranteed should you choose to undergo your interview without a solicitor and can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Looking forward
Prompt action and extensive experience are vital when your freedom and reputation are on the line due to accusations of a sexual offence. It’s essential to seek legal advice if you’re facing such allegations. You don’t have to go through this alone—a specialist lawyer on your side can help you clear your name and protect your reputation.
