In Tacoma, the consequences of a sex crime conviction are severe and long-lasting. These charges can lead to mandatory sex offender registration, prison time, and permanent barriers to employment and housing. However, an accusation is not a conviction, and you have rights that deserve protection.
Here is what to do if you are accused of a sex crime in Tacoma. Contact our Tacoma sex crimes lawyer at The Law Offices of Mark S. Treyz and schedule your free consultation today.
Take the Accusation Seriously from the Start
Even if you believe the accusation is baseless or will be quickly resolved, treat it with the gravity it deserves. Law enforcement and prosecutors take sex crime allegations seriously, and so should you. Dismissing the situation or assuming it will simply go away can lead to missed opportunities to protect yourself.
Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
When police want to question you, remember that you are under no obligation to answer their questions without an attorney present. Anything you say can and will be used against you, even statements you believe are harmless. Politely but firmly invoke your right to remain silent and request legal representation. Remember, staying silent does not mean you are guilty.
Contact a Sex Crime Defense Attorney Immediately
Facing sex crime charges without legal representation puts you at a serious disadvantage. You may unknowingly waive important rights, make statements that damage your case, or miss deadlines that affect your defense options. A Tacoma sex crimes defense attorney can guide you through the investigation process and begin building your defense strategy right away.
Do Not Contact the Accuser
No matter how tempting it may be to explain yourself or resolve the situation directly, avoid any contact with your accuser. Reaching out—whether in person, by phone, through text, or via a third party—can be interpreted as witness tampering or intimidation. This may result in additional charges that complicate your case further.
Avoid Discussing the Allegations on Social Media
Resist the urge to defend yourself publicly online or discuss any aspect of the case on social media platforms. Prosecutors and investigators routinely monitor defendants’ online activity, and even seemingly innocent posts can be taken out of context and used against you in court.
Preserve Any Evidence That May Support Your Defense
Gather and safeguard any materials that might help establish your innocence. This includes text messages, emails, photographs, receipts, surveillance footage, or contact information for potential witnesses. Share this evidence only with your attorney, who can determine what is relevant and how to use it effectively.
Prepare for the Legal Process Ahead
Sex crime cases in Washington often involve multiple court appearances, pretrial hearings, and extensive negotiations before ever reaching trial. Understanding what lies ahead—and having a Tacoma sex crime lawyer by your side—can help you navigate this process with greater confidence and clarity.
A Tacoma sex crimes defense attorney at The Law Offices of Mark S. Treyz can make all the difference in how your case unfolds. If you have been accused of a sex crime in Tacoma or anywhere in Washington, do not wait to seek help. Schedule a free consultation with a Washington sex crimes defense attorney today to discuss your case and begin building your defense.