According to research, in an analysis of sexual-assault cases at a large university for a 10-year period, a study found that only 35.3% of cases led to formal charges or discipline against the accused. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of the woods, the odds may not always be in your favor.
On the legal end, if the victim was or is currently a minor, if there were multiple perpetrators, or if the offender was an officer of the law or in another position of power, you’ll face felony charges punishable with a minimum of 25 years in prison. Even if the victim doesn’t fit within this criteria, you may be facing serious jail time which can ultimately lead to financial hardship and loss of future opportunities.
At the university level, you may be faced with multiple semesters of suspension or even expulsion, loss of credits earned, and an inability to transfer to another university or college. You may also be excused from extracurricular activities, such as participating in sports, which could impact your ability to qualify for scholarships. You also may face loss of financial aid.
As if that weren’t enough. you may also face a civil lawsuit from the victim or the victim’s family. It’s of the utmost importance that you hire a sexual battery attorney in Tampa if you’ve been wrongfully accused to help you prevent these possible outcomes.