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Falsely Accused of Rape or Sexual Assault in Brooklyn?
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Falsely Accused of Rape or Sexual Assault in Brooklyn? What You Need to Know
Being falsely accused of rape or sexual assault is an incredibly serious and stressful situation. Even if you are innocent, defending yourself against such allegations can ruin your reputation, cost you financially, and take a tremendous emotional toll.
If you have been falsely accused of rape or sexual assault in Brooklyn, it is absolutely vital that you take immediate action to protect yourself. Having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side can mean the difference between being wrongly convicted and clearing your name.
Understanding False Rape and Sexual Assault Allegations
False allegations of rape and sexual assault, while relatively rare, do happen. Studies estimate that between 2-10% of rape reports are false[1]. There are many reasons why someone might falsely accuse another person, including:
- Regret after a consensual sexual encounter
- Seeking revenge after a relationship ends badly
- Mental health issues or personality disorders
- Attempt to gain sympathy or attention
- Outside pressure from friends, family, colleagues
Regardless of the accuser’s motivations, being on the receiving end of a false allegation can make you feel powerless, anxious, depressed, and extremely concerned about what the future may bring.
Steps to Take If Falsely Accused in Brooklyn
If you have been accused of rape, sexual assault or any other sex crime in Brooklyn, here are some steps you should take right away:
- Do Not Speak to Anyone Without an Attorney
- Gather Any Documentation That Could Help Your Case
- Hire an Experienced Sex Crimes Defense Attorney Immediately
- Try to Remain Calm and Patient
Possible Legal Consequences If Convicted
The penalties for rape and sexual assault convictions are severe. This is why building a robust defense with an attorney is so important if facing false allegations. Potential consequences may include:
- Years or decades in prison – Rape and sexual assault carry lengthy mandatory minimum sentences under New York law.
- Sex offender registration – Those convicted of sex crimes must register as a sex offender. This brings restrictions on where you can live, work, and more.
- Fees and restitution – You may have to pay fines, fees, restitution to the accuser, and more.
- Immigration issues – Non-citizens charged with sex crimes may face detention and deportation.
The stigma and reputational damage from merely being accused can also be difficult to overcome. Your mugshot, charges, and other information may be published by media outlets or remain online indefinitely – even if you are found innocent later on.
Finding the Best False Allegation Defense Attorney in Brooklyn
If you have been wrongly accused of rape, sexual assault or another sex crime in Brooklyn or the NYC area, immediate legal representation from a skilled defense lawyer is crucial.
When researching attorneys, look for these important qualifications:
- Track record of dismissed charges – Ask about their success rate specifically with sex crimes cases – have they gotten false charges dismissed for past clients?
- Reputation for aggressive defense – Do they have a reputation for thoroughly investigating claims, finding procedural issues, questioning credibility, uncovering evidence and mounting an aggressive defense?
- Trial experience – Have they taken difficult sex crimes cases to trial and won? Not all lawyers have real courtroom experience.
- Knowledge of local courts and laws – It’s advantageous to have an attorney intimately familiar with Brooklyn courts, judges, prosecutors and state laws.
- Supportive client relationships – You want an attorney who will listen, be responsive to your needs, and fight tirelessly in your defense.
Don’t take chances with your future. Work with a skilled false allegation defense lawyer to address the charges and start protecting yourself today.
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