Upon being charged with sexual assault in British Columbia, several questions, concerns, and uncertainties are bound to cross your mind:

What happens next? 

What are your rights? 

How can you fight sexual assault charges?

We intend to answer these questions and provide the necessary information to help you navigate this difficult time.

Understanding Sexual Assault Charges

Throughout Canada, sexual assault is defined as any non-consensual act of a sexual nature. This can include unwanted touching, kissing, or intercourse and can occur between anyone regardless of their relationship status. The severity of the charges depends on the case’s specific circumstances and can range from a summary conviction to an indictable offense.

In addition to sexual assault, there are other related offenses, such as sexual interference, invitation to sexual touching, and sexual exploitation, that carry their own penalties and consequences. 

Your Rights When Facing Sexual Assault Charges

If you’re charged with sexual assault in British Columbia, you have the right to a fair trial and legal representation. This means you can either represent yourself or hire a BC criminal lawyer to advocate on your behalf. 

We cannot emphasize enough the importance of seeking legal counsel in BC, as sexual assault charges carry serious consequences and require expertise in navigating the legal system.

You also have the right to be presumed innocent of these sexual assault charges until proven guilty. This means the burden of proof falls on the Crown, who must prove beyond a reasonable doubt your guilt.

Options for Defending Sexual Assault Charges

There are several options for defending sexual assault charges in British Columbia, including:

• Consent: You can argue that the alleged sexual activity was consensual and that you did not commit an assault.
• Mistaken identity: You can claim you were wrongly identified as the perpetrator, and someone else committed the assault.
• Lack of evidence: If insufficient evidence proves your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, the sexual assault charges may be dropped or dismissed.
• Self-defence: In some cases, it may be possible to argue that you acted in self-defence and did not commit sexual assault.

Contact Jerry Steele to Fight Your Sexual Assault Charges in BC

If you have been charged with sexual assault in British Columbia, seek legal representation from a skilled and experienced BC criminal defence lawyer, Jerry Steele. He will thoroughly review your case and develop a strong defence strategy tailored to your circumstances.

Call 778-800-0012 now.