Moose Jaw Sexual Assault and Rape Lawyer

If you’ve been arrested for and charged with sexual assault or rape it’s imperative that you exercise your right to remain silent when you deal with the police. Exercise your right to a lawyer, too, and call Merchant Law.

There are few charges more serious, threatening both your freedom and your reputation. Our experienced team of tough criminal defence lawyers can help you protect both.

What should I do if I’ve been charged with rape or sexual assault? 

After you’ve contacted a lawyer you should avoid all contact with the victim. Talking to your accuser won’t help and may even add aggravating factors to your case. 

You should also avoid speaking to family members or friends about the case. It may be tempting to try to defend yourself, but they can be called in as witnesses against you. Statements which you think are exculpatory may in fact make your situation worse.

Go silent on social media as anything you post or anything someone else posts about you can be used against you. 

Next, you should make a list of possible witnesses, anyone who you think may be able to provide evidence that clears your name. We also ask you to gather up emails, texts, telephone messages, photos, vidoes, and any other material evidence which might help to prove your innocence. For example, if the alleged victim named a specific place and time for the incident and we can prove you weren’t even there, then the Crown’s case falls apart. 

What are the penalties for rape and sexual assault?

A sexual assault conviction can be punishable for up to 10 years, or, if the victim is under the age of 16, for up to 14 years. You will also be registered as a sex offender and the conviction will remain on your record for life.

If there are aggravating factors, such as the use of a weapon or causing bodily harm then you may face more jail time.

In addition, life after prison may prove to be exceptionally difficult as you may face problems getting a job or securing housing. 

How can you defend against rape and sexual assault charges?

There are many defences we can offer.

One way we can defend you is by challenging the credibility of the Crown’s witnesses. If we can demonstrate they are lying or prove they have a motivation to lie then this weakens the Crown’s case.

We also take a hard look at the physical evidence and find the places where it does not support the Crown’s narrative. 

From Day 1 we will be challenging the admissibility of certain pieces of evidence. In some cases, we can prevent the jury from hearing or seeing problematic pieces evidence, which can strengthen your case.

Why Merchant Law?  

We bring decades of legal experience and acumen to the table. We’ve helped hundreds of people like you. In some cases we’ve gotten rape or sexual assault charges dropped or dismissed, and we’ve successfully seen many of our clients get acquitted. 

If you’re in trouble, don’t hesitate. Call (306) 693-7777 today.