The last thing you expect to deal with is a crime you were unaware of. Being falsely accused of a federal crime can be nerve-wracking. You never know what the future might bring and if you will be able to successfully demonstrate that you are not guilty. In difficult situations like this, it is important to know what to do and not to do to avoid further problems.
If you were wrongfully accused of a crime, the first thing you should do is get in touch with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Without an attorney, it is easy to make moves that can worsen your case. A legal expert can establish your innocence and bring out the truth. Meanwhile, here are the DOs and DONTs you should follow.
DOs
- Hire a defense attorney immediately.
You should contact a criminal defense attorney immediately when you get the news. It is recommended to hire one who specializes in defending the particular crime that you are accused of.
- Do your part in gathering evidence.
While your attorney will conduct their own investigation using expert knowledge and resources, you should also do your part. Collect, store, and preserve all evidence you can find. These will be helpful for your attorney when solving the case.
- Write down your recollection of events.
You may think your side of the story does not matter if you do not have evidence to back it up. However, writing down the details of the incident can be more helpful than you think. Write down your recollection of the event as accurately as you remember.
DONTs
- Contact the complainant.
As an accused, the worst thing you can do to your case is approaching the complainant yourself and attempt the resolve the issue by “talking it out”. Remember that if they wanted to solve it through talking, they would not have filed the complaint in the first place.
- Let your emotions get the best of you.
While being accused of a crime when you are innocent can be an emotionally stressful time, you should control your emotions. Watch what you say and how you act publicly because any outburst could be used against you.
- Answer questions from the authorities.
It is likely that you will be contacted by the authorities as soon as the case is filed and even arrested. They will ask questions regarding the allegation, which you have the right to refuse to answer. Remember that you have the right to remain silent, and you should exercise it, at least until you consult with an attorney.