Aggravated sexual assault is a felony crime penalized by the state laws, and hence, penalties vary from state to state. A sexual assault is said to be aggravated when the offense wounds, disfigures or maims the victim. If a sexual offense is committed with the help of another person or done with a mentally or physically handicapped person, then also it is referred to as aggravated sexual assault. Getting accused of aggravated sexual assault can change the face of your life as it spoils your reputation in personal and professional fronts.
Step 1 – Realize and Act
Getting accused of aggravated sexual assault is actually very serious. You have to take the necessary steps to prove your innocence to come out of this false accusation. If you do not act immediately you may get entangled in a series of legal consequences.
Step 2 – Legal Representation
You cannot do much by yourself to prove your innocence. Hence, you have to make use of the right for legal representation and hire a criminal defense or sexual crime defense lawyer to fight the case on your behalf. Choose an attorney who is specialized in defending such type of false sexual offense accusations.
Step 3 – Know your Case and Rights
You should educate yourself about this allegation and its consequences. You should be aware of the legal proceedings and criminal penalties for an aggravated sexual assault charge. You should also be wary of your basic rights in order to protect yourself. Every sexual offense accused person has a right to keep silent during interrogation – make use of this as your statements can be used against you.
Step 4 – Arrange for Finance
You may have to undergo polygraph or psychological tests in order to prove that you were not involved in the said sexual offense incident. You may also be required to undergo specialized DNA testing to make your defense stronger. Apart from these, you have to gather evidence and witnesses who can defend you. You should be financially strong to finish all these steps to defend yourself as all these involve lot of money.
Step 5 – Recollect and Sort
Recollect all the incidents related to the day and time of the offense and note them down in a chronological order. This sorted listing will help you to bring in new evidence or witness for our support.
Getting Legal Aid
Consult and hire a criminal defense attorney. His investigation, interview of victim, advice and defense can help you to strongly defend your case.