Facing an accusation of a sexual crime is an extremely delicate and stressful situation that can have significant repercussions on your personal and professional life. If you find yourself in this situation, it is crucial to take immediate and appropriate action to protect your rights and build a solid defense that leads to a resolution.

Below is a basic guide to the steps you should follow:

1. Remain calm and avoid rash decisions: It is natural to feel fear and anxiety when facing the criminal justice system, but it is essential to organize your thoughts and act rationally.
2. Do not contact the alleged victim: Avoid any communication with the alleged victim, as this may worsen your legal situation.
3. Do not discuss your case with anyone: Remember that anything you say can be used against you. It is vital to consult with a specialized attorney before making any statements in the process.
4. Consult an attorney specialized in sexual crimes: Seek legal counsel from an experienced attorney with whom you can establish a personalized attorney-client relationship. These cases require specific legal knowledge, a well-designed defense strategy, and comprehensive support throughout the process.
5. Document everything related to your case: Gather and preserve any evidence that may support your position, such as text messages, emails, images, witness information, and any other relevant records.
6. Understand the judicial process timelines: Legal proceedings take time. It is crucial to prepare for a process where having a proactive and engaged attorney will be essential to ensure progress in your case and help you navigate this challenging situation.
7. Follow all legal procedures: Comply with court orders and attend all hearings and police interviews. Your attorney will guide you through each step to ensure that your rights are upheld.

Being accused of a sexual crime is a traumatic experience that requires personalized legal support. The assistance of a specialized attorney will help you prepare an adequate defense, safeguard your rights, and seek justice in your case.

Being a victim of a sexual crime or gender-based violence is a traumatic experience that can leave deep emotional scars. However, it is essential to know that you are not alone and that there are legal procedures designed to protect and assist you in these situations.

The First Step: Believing in Yourself

Many victims experience self-doubt about their testimony, which is entirely understandable given the psychological impact of these crimes. However, it is crucial to remember that the violence and events you endured were not your fault, and you have every right to seek justice and redress.

What Legal Actions Can You Take If You Are a Victim of a Sexual Crime?There are two primary legal actions available to victims:

1. Filing a Complaint: In simple terms, a complaint refers to the act of providing information to the relevant authorities regarding events that may constitute a crime. Any person can file a complaint, and it serves as the first step in initiating a criminal investigation.
2. Filing a Criminal Lawsuit (Querella): This is a formal legal document drafted by an expert attorney that formally accuses the perpetrator before the competent criminal court. By filing a querella, the victim assumes an active role in the criminal investigation to ensure that the responsible party is prosecuted.

The Importance of Specialized Legal Counsel

Having the support of a criminal defense attorney with expertise in sexual crimes and gender-based violence is crucial to ensuring that your rights are protected and that the judicial process is conducted appropriately. An experienced attorney will assist you in:

1. Case Evaluation: Assessing the facts, testimonial and documentary evidence, and determining the applicable legal framework to develop the best strategy to represent your interests before the Public Prosecutor’s Office.
2. Drafting the Complaint or Querella: Preparing a well-founded and detailed complaint or querella, including all necessary elements and legal actions to initiate an investigation.
3. Legal Representation Throughout the Entire Judicial Process: Providing legal representation at every stage, from the investigation phase to, if necessary, oral trial proceedings, ensuring that your rights and interests are upheld.
4. Preparing Your Testimony and That of Your Witnesses: Advising and guiding you and your witnesses throughout the process to ensure they are comfortable and prepared to contribute effectively to the investigation.
5. Keeping You Informed: Keeping you updated on the progress of the case and advising you on available protection measures.

Why Is Legal Counsel Important?

1. Specialized Knowledge: Criminal attorneys possess in-depth knowledge of criminal law and judicial procedures.
2. Experience: With extensive experience representing victims of sexual crimes and gender-based violence, they can anticipate potential challenges, devise effective legal strategies, and find appropriate solutions.
3. Empathy: Understanding the trauma victims experience, they provide not only legal counsel but also emotional support throughout the process.

What to Do After Filing a Complaint or Querella?

1. Seek Psychological Support: Working with a mental health professional is essential for processing trauma and restoring emotional well-being.
2. Join Support Networks: Various organizations and support groups offer guidance and assistance to victims of gender-based violence.

Additional Recommendations:

1. Preserve All Evidence: Keep records of any material that may be useful in the judicial process, such as messages, photographs, or witness testimonies that could support your case.
2. Take Care of Yourself: Prioritize your physical and emotional well-being. Engage in activities that help you relax and rebuild your self-confidence.
3. Stay Resilient: The judicial process can be lengthy and challenging, but do not lose hope. Trust in the work of experts and continue forward with the determination to seek justice.

Our specialized legal team is committed to providing comprehensive legal representation and ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the entire process.