What Should I Do if I Have Been Accused of a Crime Against a Child?

 Posted on February 07, 2020 in Criminal Defense

Criminal consequences for crimes against children in Texas can be life-changing. If you are convicted of child pornography, sexual assault of a child, kidnapping and abduction, or a similar offense, you could face years behind bars and a lifetime of stigma. You may also be required to register as a sex offender and appear on the public sex offender registry. Even false allegations of any criminal act can dramatically damage your reputation. If you have been accused of a crime against a child, there are several steps that you should immediately take in order to give you the best possible chances of avoiding a conviction.

Do Not Say Anything to Police Until Your Lawyer Is Present

You have probably heard the phrase, “You have the right to remain silent” in the past, but you may be unsure as to what this actually means. In the United States, anyone who has been placed under arrest has the right to remain silent and not respond to police questioning. Never allow police to interrogate you without your lawyer present. An experienced criminal defense attorney will ensure that your rights are not violated and that you do not inadvertently say something that could incriminate you.

Do Not Confront the Alleged Victim or Accuser

One of the worst things you can do after being accused of a crime against a child is to contact the child or the person who accused you of the crime. For example, if you learn that your ex-girlfriend or ex-boyfriend accused you of child sexual abuse against his or her child, you may be tempted to call your ex and discuss the allegations. However, doing this will almost certainly worsen the situation. The prosecution can use any contact with the alleged victim or accuser against you in future legal proceedings.

Collect Evidence and Witness Information

Document the interactions you have had with the accuser or alleged victim and note the dates and times of this communication. Save copies of call logs, text messages, emails, or other pieces of evidence that can support your case. Compile a list of witnesses who can confirm your side of the story and who are willing to possibly testify on your behalf. Give this list of witnesses and evidence to your legal team so they can use it to build your defense.  

Contact a Dallas Crimes Against Children Lawyer

Crimes against children in Texas are punishable by years or even decades in prison. If you have been accused of a crime against a child, you need a lawyer who has extensive experience successfully defending against these types of serious accusations. Attorney Darlina Crowder has obtained hundreds of acquittals and not guilty verdicts for her clients. To schedule a free, confidential consultation with an accomplished Collin County criminal defense attorney at The Crowder Law Firm, P.C., call us today at 214-544-0061.

Sources:
http://www.mirandarights.org/righttoremainsilent.html
https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/docs/PE/htm/PE.21.htm