What Should I Do If I Have Been Accused of Sexual Assault in Wisconsin?

 Posted on November 03, 2020 in Criminal Defense

The state of Wisconsin has instituted harsh punishments for individuals convicted of sexual assault. If you have been charged with sexually assaulting someone, do not take these charges lightly. Depending on the circumstances of the alleged crime, sexual assault is punishable by up to several decades in prison. If you are accused of sexually assaulting a child, you could face a prison sentence of 40-60 years or even life imprisonment. That is why it is imperative that you seek the legal guidance of a skilled criminal defense attorney who can protect your rights and help you avoid a conviction.

Do Not Submit to a Police Interrogation Without Your Attorney Present

Most people are familiar with the phrase “you have the right to remain silent,” but do not know how profound this right actually is. The U.S. Constitution gives you the right to avoid incriminating yourself. This means that you do not have to answer police questions after you have been arrested. Police may use several different tactics during an interrogation. They may even imply that only a guilty person would choose to remain silent and decline questioning. However, the best thing you can do to avoid saying something that will be used against you during future legal proceedings is to say nothing. Calmly ask for your lawyer and refuse to submit to police interrogations until he or she is present.

Do Not Confront Your Accuser and Comply With Any Protective Orders

If you were falsely accused of sexual assault, you may understandably be angry and upset. You may even be tempted to confront the person who accused you. However, doing so could result in additional criminal charges that only worsen your chances of avoiding conviction. If a protective order or restraining order has been issued against you, you must comply with the terms of the order – even if the order was based on false accusations. The order may require you to stay away from certain people or places, surrender your firearms, or move out of your own home. As frustrating as it is, obeying the terms of the protective order will help demonstrate that you are a law-abiding citizen. Furthermore, violation of a restraining order is a criminal offense punishable by fines up to $10,000 and nine months in jail.

Contact a Milwaukee County Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you are convicted of sexual assault, you can face years if not decades in prison. You may also be listed on the national sex offender registry and struggle with employment and housing for the rest of your life. An experienced Walworth County criminal defense attorney from Bucher Law Group, LLC can help you build a robust defense against accusations of sexual assault. Call our office today at 262-303-4916 to schedule a free, confidential consultation.

Source:
https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/940/II/225