Rape is no light matter, but false rape accusations are unfortunately more common than you might think.
These false cases are particularly common in sexual assault cases involving minors, who may have been manipulated by an adult into thinking they experienced sexual violence.
If you have experienced false rape accusations in Oklahoma, you must waste no time in setting up a defense for yourself. At Jacqui Ford Law, our Oklahoma City-based criminal defense attorneys are ready to work with you for justice after being falsely accused of rape.
Why Do I Need A Criminal Defense Attorney for a Rape Case?
Oklahoma law defines rape as an act of sexual intercourse under any of the following circumstances:
- The victim is less than 16 years old
- The victim is incapable of giving legal consent
- Force or violence is used
- The victim is unconscious
- The victim engages in sexual intercourse with an employee of a government organization that exercises control over the victim
- The victim is a student and engages in sexual intercourse with an offender who is an employee of the same school system
According to Oklahoma law, rape can also occur between spouses.
When somebody has falsely accused you of rape in Oklahoma, your first action must be to consult a trusted defense attorney to help build your defense case.
Rape cases are a serious matter, and you will need an experienced team of defense attorneys at your back to fight these allegations and ensure you don’t face consequences for something you didn’t do.
If convicted of rape in the first degree, you could face imprisonment, life without parole, or even the death penalty. Second-degree rape is also a felony punishable by imprisonment for between one and 15 years.
At Jacqui Ford Law, we have the necessary experience to keep you from facing the severe repercussions of false rape allegations. Do not hesitate to schedule a free consultation today.
Trust The Truth
The Oklahoma court treats sex crime cases with the gravity they deserve – and this includes a false rape charge, as a judge will want to be as thorough as possible in any rape case.
Ultimately, you must trust that the truth will come out. In many false rape accusations, the court will drop a case due to a lack of evidence, but in some cases, it may go to trial.
In these scenarios, you must not lose hope. Your defense team will work to prove your innocence, but it may take some time. Remember that each case must be beyond a reasonable doubt.
Exercise Your Right To Remain Silent
If you are arrested on false rape charges, you must exercise your right to remain silent.
This right is a vital part of the justice system, and even if you want to inform the arresting officers of your innocence by recounting events, they can try to twist your words to suit them in court.
Additionally, it’s not a good idea to try to contact the person who accused you of rape, or anyone in their social circle. Even if you just want to discuss what happened, this can lead to serious problems for your case.
In any case, but especially cases as serious as a false rape accusation, remember to keep silent and demand to speak to your lawyer.
Consider Filing A Civil Lawsuit
After your false rape accusation case is settled, you may want to file a civil suit against whoever falsely accused you. This lawsuit can recoup financial costs for damages to your life, relationships, and career.
If you wish to file a civil suit, you must wait until after the legal matter of your rape charge is settled; under Oklahoma law, you cannot file a civil suit for a case until the case has concluded.
With a victory, the court may require your accuser to pay you a sum for the distress that they have caused.
Contact Jacqui Ford Law Today
There are many reasons somebody may make a false rape allegation, but no matter what they claim, Jacqui Ford Law is ready to help you clear your name and prove your innocence beyond a reasonable doubt.
To help build your defense against these serious allegations, schedule a free consultation with us today.
