Essential Steps to Take After Being Accused of a Sex Crime in New York

At O’Brien & Eggleston PLLC, our Albany criminal defense attorneys know that being accused of, arrested for, or charged with a sex crime evokes strong emotional reactions and societal condemnation.

In New York and nationwide, sex crimes are considered among the most heinous offenses in society due to the violation of personal boundaries, trust, and dignity. Unfortunately, there is a societal tendency to presume guilt upon hearing accusations of sex crimes—even if the allegations are false.

Media coverage of high-profile sex crime cases, combined with sensationalized portrayals in entertainment and news media, can shape public perception and exacerbate the stigma associated with being accused of such crimes. For these and multiple other reasons, it is critical to partner with an experienced Albany County sex crimes defense attorney immediately to ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal proceedings.

Here, we discuss other essential steps to protect your integrity and legal case to pursue the best outcome.

How to Respond to a Sex Crime Allegation in New York

Facing accusations of a sex crime in New York can be overwhelming, but taking the proper steps early on can help protect your rights and build a strong defense. It’s crucial to remain calm and composed, even though facing severe allegations can be distressing.

Once you partner with a skilled New York defense lawyer:

• Avoid Speaking to Law Enforcement

Refrain from making statements to law enforcement or investigators without your attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you, so you must exercise your right to remain silent until you have legal representation.

• Preserve Evidence

If you have evidence supporting your innocence or contradicting the allegations, preserve it and provide it to your attorney. This may include text messages, emails, social media posts, surveillance footage, or other relevant documentation.

• Compile a List of Witnesses

If there were witnesses to the alleged incident or events surrounding it, compile a list of their names and contact information. Witness testimony can corroborate your version of events and support your defense.

• Document Your Recollection of Events

Write down your recollection of the events leading up to the accusation, including dates, times, locations, and relevant details. This can help you organize your thoughts and provide a coherent account of what happened when discussing the case with your attorney.

• Comply with Court Orders

If you are arrested or charged with a sex crime, comply with court orders, such as appearing for arraignment hearings, bail hearings, or court dates. Failure to comply with court orders can result in additional legal consequences.

• Protect Your Reputation

Be mindful of your reputation and how the accusations may affect your personal and professional life. Avoid discussing the case or sharing details on social media, as anything you say could be used against you. It’s essential to maintain discretion and confidentiality while the legal process unfolds.

• Consider Psychological Support

Accusations of sex crimes can take a significant emotional toll on the accused. Consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor who can help you cope with stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges associated with the case.

Navigating accusations of a sex crime in New York requires careful strategizing, legal expertise, and a proactive approach to protecting your rights and defending your innocence. By taking these essential steps and working closely with an experienced attorney, you can increase your chances of achieving a favorable outcome in your case.

Contact Our Criminal Defense Attorney Today

Contact our Albany sex crimes defense attorneys at O’Brien & Eggleston PLLC today by calling (518)-391-2369 or online to ensure your rights are protected from the start, including as early as police questioning. We have a strong track record of producing real results for our clients. Allow us to pursue a positive outcome for your case, too.