Steps to Take When Falsely Accused
Being investigated for a crime that you have committed is stressful, to say the least. Being investigated for a crime that you didn’t commit can be downright frightening. If you find yourself being investigated for a crime you didn’t commit, you must take steps to protect yourself immediately.
People are mistakenly charged with crimes more often than we would like to think about. In some instances, a witness identifies the wrong person. In other cases, an innocent person can be suspected due to circumstances beyond their control. An investigation may lead to official charges and that is something no one should have to go through. Here are steps to take if you are being investigated or have found yourself charged despite your innocence.
1. Physical Evidence
Gather any physical evidence that you can locate that will prove your innocence. You may have photos that put you somewhere else, videos that show exactly what you were doing when the crime was committed, or other objects that can help prove you had no part in the crime.
2. Witnesses
Witnesses are often one of the best options when it comes to helping prove that you had nothing to do with a crime. You may have been with people when the crime was committed who can attest for your whereabouts. You may know someone who has factual information about the case. Put together a list and give it to your attorney.
3. Do Not Talk to the Victim
If you know the victim, do not speak to them. Nothing good will come out of your trying to talk them out of filing charges or pleading your case. In fact, you may be charged with intimidation and find yourself in deeper waters.
4. Do Not Volunteer to Testing
The police may ask you to submit to DNA or another type of testing. Do not do this without speaking to your lawyer first. It can be tempting to provide the police with anything they want if you think it will help prove your innocence. This is rarely a good idea.
Being falsely accused is something that can cause great hardship. If you find yourself in this position, you need the assistance of a criminal defense attorney immediately. If you have been falsely accused of a crime in Orlando, reach out to our team. We will review the details of the investigation and advise you how to best proceed. Your first consultation is free.