It is no secret that a criminal conviction can turn your life upside-down. The mark on your record can affect your job prospects, housing options and even the way friends and family think of you. However, the effects can be even more profound if your conviction is for a crime of a sexual nature. Not only will you have to face penalties such as fines or even a prison sentence, you may also be required to sign the sex offender register.
Authorities in Illinois do all they can to track down those suspected of involvement in sexual offenses. However, this does not mean they always find the correct person. Sex crimes are generally very delicate matters to handle and it can be difficult to accurately ascertain all the facts.
One issue that can arise is that those affected by the crime may have been so upset by it that they struggle to identify the perpetrator. This can sometimes lead to cases of mistaken identity, so you could find yourself accused of a crime you did not commit. However, it is vital to remember that lashing out at your accuser is unlikely to help your case, even if you know they are mistaken.
Our page on sex crimes has more information on what you can do if you are facing charges for an offense of this nature. An attorney may also be able to assist you with your defense and help you choose the best way to handle the situation. With the right support and a strong defense, you may be able to avoid conviction and protect your future.