Wrongfully Accused of a Criminal Offense in Wisconsin

Unfortunately, false accusations happen. Maybe you were at the wrong place at the wrong time, or perhaps someone is truly out to get you. Whatever the reason, being wrongfully accused of a crime can have life-long consequences.

Ways You Can be Falsely Accused

Typically, false accusations fall under one of four types of claims:

• • False imprisonment – When you are held in prison without justification.
• • Malicious prosecution – When legal action is brought against you without cause.
• • Libel – When someone publishes or records statements about you that cause harm.
• • Slander – When someone speaks against you causing harm.

How to Fight False Criminal Accusations

First, find an attorney with experience in false accusation cases. Your lawyer will advise you on next steps you’ll need to take, but here are a few things you can do on your own:

1. • Collect any evidence including texts, emails, video, GPS data, photos, clothing, etc.
2. • Create a list of evidence you know exists but were not able to gather.
3. • Create a list of potential witnesses.
4. • Share this information with your attorney.

 
There are also a number of things you should not do after being falsely accused of a crime. Do not:

1. • Attempt to destroy evidence, even if you think it incriminates you.
2. • Attempt to contact the accuser or witnesses even if you think you can convince them of your innocence.
3. • Speak to law enforcement without your lawyer.
4. • Agree to testing or interrogation without your lawyer’s knowledge and consent.

 
Just because you have been falsely accused, or even convicted, doesn’t mean you should lose hope. There are ways to get charges withdrawn or to fight the charges in court. Complete our online case review to schedule a free consultation with one of the experienced attorneys at Tracey Wood & Associates.