Sexual offence charges? What to do in your darkest hour ABV Solicitors Being arrested and charged with a sexual offence is a terrifying experience. You may feel overwhelmed, confused, and alone. You may not know what to do or who to turn to. That's where a sexual offence solicitor comes in. A sexual offence solicitor is a specialist criminal lawyer who has experience in defending people accused of sexual offences. They can help you understand the charges against you, navigate the criminal justice system, and protect your rights. What is a sexual offence solicitor? A sexual offence solicitor is a specialist criminal lawyer who has experience in defending people accused of sexual offences. Sexual offences are serious crimes that can carry long-term consequences, including imprisonment. If you have been charged with a sexual offence, it is important to seek legal advice from a specialist sexual offence solicitor as soon as possible. What do sexual offence solicitors do? Sexual offence solicitors can help you with a range of matters, such as providing you with legal advice about the charges against you, representing you at police interviews and court hearings, preparing your case for trial, negotiating with the prosecution to reach a plea bargain, and representing you at sentencing. Why do I need a sexual offence solicitor? If you have been charged with a sexual offence, it is important to have legal representation from a specialist sexual offence solicitor. A solicitor can help you in a number of ways. The criminal justice system can be complex and adversarial. A solicitor can help you understand your rights and ensure that they are protected throughout the process. They will also take proactive steps, if you have been charged with a crime. They will gather evidence and build a strong defence on your behalf. They will also challenge any evidence that the prosecution presents. A sexual offence solicitor can also negotiate with the prosecution to reach a plea bargain. This can often result in a more lenient sentence. If your case goes to the Magistrates’ Court, a solicitor will represent you at these hearings. They will speak on your behalf and ensure that your case is presented in the best possible light. If your case is more serious, it will be referred to the Crown Court and your solicitor will support the work of the KCs and barrister, and they will be present during the trial in order to do this. What happens when you've been arrested by the police? If you have been arrested by the police on suspicion of a sexual offence, you are likely to be taken to a police station. You will be interviewed by the police and may be asked to provide a sample of your DNA. You are entitled to have a solicitor present during your interview. If you do not have a solicitor, the police will have to provide you with one. Once you have been interviewed, you may be released on bail or remanded in custody. If you are released on bail, you will be given a date to return to court. If you are remanded in custody, you will be held in prison until your trial. Types of sexual offences in UK law The Sexual Offences Act 2003 is the main piece of legislation that defines sexual offences in the UK. The Act covers a wide range of offences, such as rape, sexual assault, indecent assault, grooming, child sexual abuse images, and sexual exploitation. Being charged with any of these crimes can have life-changing consequences, so it is essential that you get the best representation you can as quickly as possible. In your darkest hour, a solicitor can shine a light on the situation and give you the help you need. References: https://www.abvsolicitors.co.uk/services/sexual-offences/ https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2003/42/contents https://www.clsa.co.uk/resources/find-a-solicitor/