Facing accusations of any crime can lead to immense stress and anxiety. When the purported crimes are of a sexual nature, the allegations can cause a significant disruption to your personal and professional life. If someone has accused you of such offenses, you might be wondering, “What are the best defenses against sex crime allegations in Dallas?”
The experienced criminal defense attorneys at Law Offices of Mark T. Lassiter have put together the following guide to help you understand the various strategies for defending against sex crime allegations.
Challenge the Accuser’s Credibility
One effective sex crime allegation defense strategy is to challenge the credibility of the accuser. For example, you may be able to demonstrate that the person accusing you has a motive to fabricate allegations, such as a desire for revenge due to a romantic rebuff or a child custody dispute.
Look for inconsistencies in the accuser’s story that might indicate that they are being dishonest. If any elements of their background or character might be able to undermine their credibility, this can serve as an effective sex crime allegation legal defense as well. For example, if they have a pattern of false accusations or a previous criminal record, the court will be more likely to call their accusations into question.
Attack Flaws in the Investigation
One of the most effective strategies for defending against sex crime allegations is to closely examine the investigation for any flaws or missteps. For example, you may be able to show that improper interrogation techniques were used, tainting any admissions or statements you made. Police may have also mishandled the collection and storage of evidence, compromising its integrity.
Pay close attention to the chain of custody documentation for physical evidence to see if there are any gaps that could call the evidence into question. You may also be able to demonstrate that investigators failed to pursue leads or evidence that could have supported your innocence. Highlighting flaws in the investigative process can create sufficient reasonable doubt to avoid conviction.
Present Affirmative Defenses
Beyond attacking the case against you, presenting affirmative defenses can provide alternative narratives to counter the allegations. For example, if you have a solid alibi placing you elsewhere at the time of the alleged crime, introducing evidence and witness testimony to prove this can instill reasonable doubt.
In certain circumstances, you may also have a viable consent defense if you can show the encounter was consensual. This will involve producing evidence, such as e-mails, texts, or social media messages, that can demonstrate that the accuser willingly engaged with you during the moment in question.
Another possible defense is mistaken identity if evidence suggests the accuser identified the wrong person. You can also build a general reasonable doubt defense by compiling evidence and facts to show that the alleged crime simply did not occur. Introducing alternative narratives through affirmative defenses shifts the burden back to the prosecution.
Seek Help from Experienced Attorneys
Sex crime cases are full of complexities. As such, those who face allegations should never attempt to defend themselves. Even if you believe the accuser’s story is obviously false, procedural and tactical errors can quickly get you into trouble. Working with experienced legal counsel can optimize your chances of a positive outcome in your case. A seasoned Dallas sex crimes defense attorney can ask for charges to be dropped in negotiations with prosecutors or, if necessary, mount an aggressive defense in court.
Prosecutors will begin building a case as soon as charges have been filed, armed with the legitimacy and resources of the state. Retaining effective counsel early in the process can help protect your rights, your liberty, and your reputation. The sooner you act, the more likely you are to achieve the results you deserve.
Contact an Experienced Dallas Sex Crimes Defense Attorney Today
If you are facing sex crime allegations in Dallas, the stakes could not be higher. The consequences for a conviction include fines, incarceration, and required entry on the sex crimes register. The fallout can mean that your life will never look the same again.
However, it is essential to remember that a successful defense is possible. With an effective defense strategy, you can increase your chances of a favorable outcome. The seasoned Dallas sex crimes defense attorneys at Law Offices of Mark T. Lassiter have a proven track record of mounting vigorous and successful defenses against all types of sex crime charges. Call us today at (214) 845-7007 or contact us online for a free consultation to learn more about how we can help you.
