A conviction on a sex crimes charge can bring severe consequences that will likely affect every part of a person’s life. The unfortunate reality, though, is that an individual doesn’t even need to be convicted of a sex crime in order to feel the negative consequences related to that conviction.
A lot of stigma comes with merely being charged with such a crime. A person may be ‘convicted’ in the court of public opinion even if they are later found to be totally innocent of any crime. In many cases, an individual is facing a criminal charge for the first time in his or her life. Because of his or her lack of knowledge regarding how the criminal system works, the individual may feel that being honest and open is the best policy. The hope is that police officials will believe you if you tell them everything they want to know.
While this idea makes sense, we also understand that our own honesty can be used against us. Even our anxiety and stress, which often comes on when being questioned by authorities, can look like a sign of guilt.
This is where the support and knowledge of a criminal defense attorney comes into play. The attorney can be a source of strength when you feel anxious or confused about the process. An experienced attorney knows the ins and outs of the criminal justice system and understands what it takes to protect an individual’s rights as they navigate this oftentimes scary process.