Key Rights You Must Know If Accused of a Sexual Crime

Sex crimes are taken very seriously, and they come with serious legal ramifications. We can see that sexual crimes are taken very seriously in the justice system. Therefore, it is important to understand your rights so that you can protect yourself throughout the entire process. 

Suppose you are ever in a situation in which you face allegations of this nature. In that case, it is pertinent that you understand the protections available to you legally, as well as ensure that you have the proper defense. 

Omaha is one of the most populous cities in Nebraska, United States. In Omaha, understanding sexual crime laws can be very complicated, and typically, it requires specific expertise. The Omaha attorneys specializing in sex crime cases have familiarity with helping parties navigate through some of these complex situations.  

What Are Your Rights if You Are Accused of a Sexual Crime?

There are a few basic rights that apply when accused of any crime, including sexual crimes. Educating yourself on these rights can help prevent you from incriminating yourself and protect your legal interests:

• The right to not say anything: You are not required to answer questions or make statements to law enforcement unless you have an attorney present.
• The right to an attorney: You are allowed to invoke a lawyer before answering any questions from the police or engaging with the court in any way.
• The right to a fair trial: The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. 
• The right of confrontation: In a courtroom, you have the opportunity to cross-examine witnesses.
• The right to due process: You have to receive notice of charges and an opportunity to present your defense.

What Should You Do if You Are Accused?

The best thing you can do is remain calm and not make any statements to law enforcement or anyone else until you have legal advice. The right to remain silent could be used against you, which makes it important to utilize. 

Speak with a qualified attorney who is experienced in sexual crime defenses in Omaha to help you through the process. Do not contact the alleged victim or discuss the case on social media accounts. Doing so can create even more legal complications for you. 

What Are Some of the Specific Challenges in Omaha?

Omaha operates under Nebraska state laws, which have specific definitions and penalties for sexual crimes. These could include offenses such as sexual assault, indecent exposure, and possession of child pornography.

Key Points

• If you have been accused of a sexual crime, your most important rights are the right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel.
• Do not talk to law enforcement or anyone else until you speak with an attorney.
• You’re going to want to avoid any direct contact with accusers and discussing the case as much as possible.
• Courts are going to be familiar with the strict, harsh penalties of state laws, and that is why you need to have specialized legal counsel.
• Protecting your rights early on can only help and can form a pathway to the best defense possible.