Do I Need to Worry About a False Allegation of a Sex Crime in Florida?
If you’ve been falsely accused of a sex crime, your inclination may be to simply ignore it. After all, if you didn’t do it you have nothing to be worried about, right? Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.
Because of Florida’s punishment of sex crimes, it’s important to properly defend yourself from the start. In this brief article, a sexual battery lawyer in Tampa with our team at The Rickman Law Firm has some insights into the best way to protect yourself if you’re facing a false allegation of sex crimes in Florida, and why you shouldn’t ignore them.
Why Would Someone Make False Allegations of Sex Crimes?
False allegations of sex crimes aren’t new. However, it can often seem like the person who stands accused is guilty until proven innocent rather than the other way around. There are a number of reasons someone might make false accusations of a sex crime. These might include:
- Revenge from a former sexual partner who is feeling rejected
- Someone attempting to extort you for money
- Accusing the wrong person after a real crime has taken place
- Being in the wrong place at the wrong time and witnessing another crime
- Covering up for an extramarital affair
- Revenge for being passed up for a promotion or other career advancement
- Angry child or stepchild trying to get a parent out of the house for good
The idea of a false allegation can seem a bit like a double edged sword. When someone says they have been sexually assaulted or harmed we should take the accusation seriously. However, that often results in the person who has been falsely accused suffering for years to come.
Should You Ignore False Allegations of Sex Crimes?
The short answer is no, you should not ignore false allegations of sex crimes lodged against you. Although you may see getting an attorney as a sign of guilt, it is quite the contrary. A sexual battery lawyer in Tampa is crucial in helping you defend your reputation. Florida has a history of aggressively prosecuting sex crimes cases and has some of the most harsh penalties for sex crimes in the country. You’ll need someone to help you navigate this unfriendly system and make sure your rights are preserved.
Additionally, if you have been falsely accused, do not speak to the police without an attorney present. The police are trained to intimidate and may try to force you to confess to a crime you did not commit. The only way to make sure you do not accidentally incriminate yourself or feel pressured is to have an attorney present.
If you’re facing false accusations, you need the best sexual battery lawyer in Tampa with The Rickman Law Firm. You may be facing steep consequences, including prison time, and your personal and professional reputation are on the line when you have been falsely accused. Don’t let the court defame your character. Contact The Rickman Law Firm today.
For a free consultation with the best federal criminal defense lawyer in Tampa, please contact The Rickman Law Firm today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.