In recent years partly due to a number of cases in the media Such as that of Jimmy Savile and a change in public attitude there has been an increase in the number of people facing investigation and prosecution in relation to these offences.
The police and prosecutors have dedicated considerable resources to the investigation of Rape and other serious sexual offences (RASSO). The Crown Prosecution service (CPS) now have dedicated teams of lawyers that deal with nothing else.
These investigations often take a long period of time as police are trained to be proactive and investigate cases thoroughly.
This often involves for example looking into the social media and contact history of the complainant and accused in order to corroborate or undermine an allegation. We can ensure that the police also investigate all matters relevant to your case and not simply those that support a prosecution and obtain expert evidence to support your case.
We understand through our many years of experience how upsetting and often devastating it is for a person to be accused of such serious crime. Allegations can relate to events from many years ago and are known as ‘historic allegations’ but are pursued with vigour by police and prosecutors anxious to avoid criticism. Our clients often fear the impact the accusations will have on them and their family. We will fight these allegations on your behalf and provide you with the specialist advice and representation you need.
Even though free representation is available at the police station, regardless of means, people sadly often agree to be interviewed by the police without representation even when facing such serious allegations.
This may be in the hope of getting the matter over with as soon as possible or because of the knowledge the allegation is false. In our experience clients who have interviewed alone rarely do themselves any favours. Minor white lies told in interview are amplified to make the defendants innocent account of the serious allegation they face appear untruthful in court. We are available 24hrs a day 365 days a year to provide advice and representation at the police station.
By getting our specialist criminal defence team involved at the earliest possible stage in your case you may be able to avoid ever getting charged with an offence or if you do face a prosecution provide the best prospect of success at trial.