Sexual assault charges are very serious charges with life long implications. If you have been accused of sexual assault, it is imperative that you speak to David Karp, an experienced criminal defence lawyer with over 20 years of experience with these types of charges.
David can guide you through this very stressful process while also fighting vigorously to defend your rights and freedoms.
If you have been accused of sexual assault, the police may already be involved and have started an investigation. It is important to know that once the police complete their investigation, they will decide if there is enough evidence to recommend to Crown Counsel if charges should be laid against you.
Crown Counsel then follow a charge assessment guidelines policy for making decisions about whether to charge someone with a criminal offence. The policy is part of the Crown counsel policy manual.
The policy requires Crown counsel to make their charge assessment decision based on the following, two-part formula:
- Is there is a substantial likelihood of conviction based on evidence that can be presented in court?
- If yes, is a prosecution required in the public interest? Crown counsel consider many factors in deciding this, including how serious the allegations are. For example, whether the accuser suffered serious harm or a weapon was used.
The purpose of this charge assessment is to ensure only solid cases and those in the public interest move forward to trial.
Hiring a lawyer to protect your rights at the beginning of this process is very important. David can explain your rights to you and speak to both the police and crown counsel immediately after being hired.
If you find yourself in a situation like this, please contact David Karp immediately. He is available to take your calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
He also offers free consultations and can be reached directly at 604.218.084 or via email at david@vancouverdefencelawyer.com .
Call David today!
