Question 1

Will I go to prison?

Accepted Answer

This depends on a number of factors. If the case is dropped or you're found not guilty then there's no chance of prison. If you plead guilty or are found guilty at court then there is a chance of prison, but this is more likely for serious offences such as rape or offences where someone is alleged to have had contact with children.

Question 2

Will I be on the sex offenders register?

Accepted Answer

Firstly, the sex offenders register is not a document available to the public. It just tells the police where your address is, which they usually have anyway. Whether you end up on it depends on whether you are convicted or if you admit the offence and receive a caution. If either of these two things happen, the length of time a person stays on the register is based on the type of penalty they receive from the court, i.e. whether it is a community order, fine, prison etc.

Question 3

Do I have to prove my innocence?

Accepted Answer

In a criminal case you do not have to provide your innocence. The prosecution have to prove their case against you beyond reasonable doubt, but if there is evidence which makes you look guilty, the jury may expect you to have a good explanation for it. The judge will tell them to consider giving you the benefit of the doubt on issues where there is no clear answe

Question 4

Can I be convicted on one person's word against mine?

Accepted Answer

If the main evidence against a defendant is just one person's statement, a jury will usually be reluctant to find that defendant guilty. If there is something else that makes the prosecution case more believable, for example if the defendant has been inconsistent between the interview and the court, or made a confession in text messages, or if there is forensic evidence against the defendant, the jury may find it easier to convict. In these types of cases having top specialist sexual offence solicitors is even more important.

Question 5

Do I have to tell my work?

Accepted Answer

You do not have to tell your work unless your contract of employment says you have to, or your regulator or professional body requires it. Some careers such as teaching, childcare, medicine or even law can make this a requirement. The police may tell your employer if you are in certain professions such as these.

Question 6

How long will the case take?

Accepted Answer

A sexual offences criminal case can take several months for the police and CPS to decide whether to take the case to court, and then several months or even longer than a year to reach trial. The trial itself will usually take around a week in the Crown Court if you are the only person charged with an offence.

Our sexual offence solicitors defend your reputation and your liberty. We never assume you are guilty.

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