False accusations can throw an innocent party’s life into a shambles. Whether it’s a minor offense or a serious one, being falsely accused of a crime can have lasting effects. Below are some things for defendants to keep in mind if they are accused of a crime they didn’t commit.
Keep Quiet
As the Miranda warning states, anything a defendant says can and will be used in court. If the authorities come to a client’s home or place of employment to ask questions, it’s important to remain calm. Law enforcement officers do not have to read suspects their Miranda rights until they are in custody, but that doesn’t mean that a client should say anything before then. Any admissions made before a suspect is Mirandized can be used as evidence at trial.
Call a Lawyer
The only person a suspect should talk to is a Criminal Attorney, as all conversations are protected by attorney/client privilege. The more information the lawyer has, the easier it will be to:
- Deal with an accuser’s threats
- Protect a client from incriminating them
- Determine whether charges have actually been filed
- Negotiate with prosecutors
- Even after accusations have been dismissed, a client may still need an attorney for the reasons listed below.
Suing for Defamation of Character
False accusations don’t just put people in jail; they can actually ruin a person’s reputation. Being falsely accused of a crime can hamper a defendant’s career and future employment prospects, and it can mean thousands in legal fees.
If someone is accused of a crime that they didn’t commit, they and a Criminal Attorney may be able to file a counterclaim for defamation. In these claims, whether they involve written or spoken defamation (libel or slander), the defendant would have to show that his or her statements to another party caused reputational harm and measurable damages. False allegations of serious offenses are often regarded as libel per se. When people stand falsely accused of crimes, an experienced attorney may be able to help them assess their legal options and protect their rights. Visit or call the firm today to schedule an appointment. You can also follow them on Twitter for more information.
