Being charged with sexual assault in Milwaukee or any of the surrounding communities is a huge deal – and it could end with you spending time behind bars. Here’s what you need to do if you’re charged with sexual assault anywhere in Wisconsin.
What to Do if You’re Charged With Sexual Assault in Milwaukee
First things first: If the police arrest you, you do not have to answer any questions investigators ask you. You have the right to remain silent, so you should let police know out loud that you wish to exercise that right. Simply saying something like “I’m not answering any questions until I’ve talked to my attorney” or “I’m invoking my right to remain silent” should be enough.
You are entitled to a phone call from jail. Do not talk about your case at all while you’re on that phone call unless you’re talking to your attorney. The police can and do listen in on phone calls you make to people other than your attorney (but they’re not allowed to listen in on calls to an attorney).
Related: Will your sexual assault lawyer still defend you if you’re guilty?
When you’re officially charged with sexual assault – that happens during an arraignment, which is your first court appearance after being arrested – your attorney can go to court with you.
The law categorizes sexual assault into degrees, with first degree being more serious (and carrying heavier penalties) than second degree, which is more serious than third and fourth degree sexual assault respectively. The circumstances that led the state of Wisconsin to charge you with sexual assault will determine the degree. For example, if you’re accused of having sexual contact or intercourse with someone who becomes pregnant, you’ll be charged with first degree sexual assault.
Related: What’s considered sexual assault in Wisconsin?
Who to Call if You’re Charged With Sexual Assault
For most people, the best plan of action is to talk to a Milwaukee sexual assault defense attorney immediately after being arrested. Your attorney can help preserve your rights and ensure you’re being treated fairly throughout the entire legal process.
Your lawyer will also answer all your questions, talk to you about possible outcomes for your case, and fight hard to get you the best results possible in your situation.
Call us right now at 414-383-6700 if you’ve been charged with sexual assault in Milwaukee, Waukesha or any community in Wisconsin. We’ll review your case for free, and together, we’ll decide how to move forward.
