If you have been falsely accused of sexual assault, you may feel devastated. Your professional and personal reputation may be at stake. You could have even lost your job on allegations alone. There may be a pending criminal investigation.
When you are facing such a serious situation, you need an advocate in your corner. Elaine Lukic is a former sexual assault prosecutor who uses her insight and experience in criminal law to protect the rights of the accused. Here are some strategies that may help you rebuild your life after being falsely accused of sexual assault:
Consider Therapy
Being falsely accused of a serious crime like sexual assault can be a traumatic event. You could be dealing with difficult emotions, such as anger, betrayal, depression, or anxiety. You could also be suffering from collateral consequences, such as job loss, loss of custody rights, the loss of friends, and other life-changing consequences. Look for a therapist who specializes in trauma. You can also consider a support group.
Officially Clear Your Name
If the charges against you were dropped or never filed, you can seek to expunge or seal the criminal record. You don’t want false accusations to jeopardize your career and reputation. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help identify your legal options and file the appropriate motions so that they do not.
Improve Your Reputation
If your reputation has taken a hit, there may be steps that you can take to restore it, such as:
- Informing your employer about the accusations and explaining that the case was dropped or the charges were false
- Working with a professional reputation management service to remove mugshots, news stories, or social media posts that contain inaccurate details
- Living a positive life as you did before the false accusations derailed your reputation
- Asking for support from your community and reminding them of your good character
Consider Taking Legal Action
If you feel that the false accusations have negatively impacted your life, you might consider filing a civil lawsuit for defamation, malicious prosecution, emotional distress, or other legal grounds. If criminal charges have already been filed, taking this action can show that you are taking the matter seriously and that you will not admit to a crime that you did not commit. A lawyer experienced in these matters can explain whether you have a viable legal claim for relief.
Contact Our Colorado Criminal Defense Lawyer for a Confidential Consultation
If you have been falsely accused of sexual assault, you need an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Our founding attorney at The Law Offices of Elaine E. Lukic is a former sexual assault prosecutor, so she knows how the other side builds cases – and how to defeat them. We can help protect your legal rights and guide you through the legal process, whether that means defending you against current charges or seeking to seal your record. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.