If you have been charged with sexual assault, the potential consequences from a Massachusetts prosecution can be devastating. In addition to fines and potential incarceration, having a felony conviction on your record can also leave you facing life-long consequences. What’s more, your options for employment or housing can be extremely limited if you land on the sex offender registry.
While simply being charged with such a crime can be mortifying in itself; thankfully you will be afforded the opportunity to defend yourself in court before you can be convicted of a sexual assault charge. With the right defense counsel, you may find yourself walking out of the courtroom, with the damaging effects of the charge behind you.
Massachusetts Sexual Assault Crimes
Sexual assault is a broad term that could apply to a number of Massachusetts sex crimes. There is a wide array of potential sexual assault charges available to a Massachusetts prosecutor. Unfortunately, it is common practice for prosecutors to overcharge when it comes to sexual crimes. If you have been arrested and charged with sexual assault in Massachusetts, you may find yourself eventually prosecuted for one or more of the following offenses:
- Assault with intent to rape
- Assault with intent to rape while armed with a firearm
- Assault with intent to rape a child under 16
- Assault with intent to rape a child under 16 while armed
- Indecent assault
Sexual assault cases tend to be fact-specific and typically hinge on the testimony of the alleged victim and any witnesses to the crime. To protect your legal rights and strengthen your case, consider the following steps if you are charged with sexual assault.
Steps to Take When Charged with Sexual Assault
Gather and preserve any evidence in your possession.
Physical evidence can be crucial in clearing your name. If you are in possession of any items that could be of value to your attorney, collect them immediately and provide them to your lawyer. This can include clothes, bedding, photos, or other related items.
Keep a case file.
There is a lengthy paper trail with any criminal prosecution, and sexual assault cases are no different. When you obtain records like police reports, medical bills, or phone records, be sure to preserve them for your attorney.
Create a timeline.
Your legal counsel can benefit from with the ability to track your movement the day of the alleged incident. A timeline can also help you to recall critical details you might have otherwise forgotten.
Create a list of potential witnesses.
Your potential witness list should be broad in the beginning. Anyone that may have encountered you shortly before the alleged incident could be valuable.
Avoid speaking with the police or the victim.
Not only should you not answer any questions, but it is critical to avoid taking any form of tests without a court order as well prior to hiring legal counsel.
Hire an experienced criminal defense attorney.
You should never be forced to take on the State of Massachusetts on your own. In order to fight back and win your freedom, it is essential that you obtain legal counsel with a track record of success at trial.
Charged with sexual assault in Massachusetts?
Concerned you are facing prosecution? Worried a consensual act is now being misconstrued? The stakes are too high to handle this situation your own. Taking on the legal system should include an attorney who is versed in criminal defense.
