Being charged with a crime can be a life-changing event, as all too many people in Illinois have learned the hard way. Even without conviction, you can experience significant changes in your day-to-day life, as well as severe pressure and stress from the ongoing investigation. Not only can this be emotionally exhausting for you, it can also put a strain on your relationships with friends and family. Furthermore, you have the worry of conviction hanging over your head throughout the investigative process.
Any form of criminal charge can have a big impact on your life, but charges relating to sexual offenses can be particularly serious. Regardless of how much or little evidence there is against you, you may find that some people begin to treat you differently, or are unsure how to react to the news. You might be suspended from your job and you could even be subjected to negative media coverage.
When faced with such charges, it can be hard to know where to turn, even if you are certain of your innocence. Fortunately, the law considers you innocent unless guilt can be proven beyond any reasonable doubt. As such, your primary focus needs to be the preservation of that doubt.
Of course, it can seem like a lot to take in, especially when your life has already been turned upside down. However, you do not need to hand these charges alone. Our page on sex crimes could prove useful as you decide what to do next and how best to preserve your reputation and avoid conviction. Similarly, an attorney may be able to provide invaluable advice and support to help you through this difficult stage of your life.