After a Maryland rape, you may be unsure of how to proceed, or what to do next. While it’s understandable that you’re feeling overwhelmed by everything, it’s important that you don’t do anything that could jeopardize your future legal claims. Rape and sexual assault are traumatic, devastating experiences. If you’ve been raped or sexually assaulted, you should contact a lawyer immediately to protect your rights and seek justice in the matter. Here are 5 reasons why you should contact a lawyer immediately according to our friends at Cohen & Cohen.
1) To Prevent Evidence Tampering
The sooner you contact a lawyer, the better. Here are a few reasons why: for starters, to prevent evidence tampering. The sooner you have someone on your side who knows the law, the better chance you have of preserving evidence that could be crucial to your case. Second, to begin building your legal team. A lawyer can help you find the right experts and investigators who will work tirelessly to get justice for you. Third, to start gathering evidence. Even if you don’t plan on going to the police or pressing charges, it’s important to have a record of what happened in case you change your mind later. Fourth, to protect your rights.
2) To Ensure Physical Safety
If you have been raped, it is important to ensure your physical safety. You should go to a safe place, away from the person who raped you. If you are in danger, call 911. Once you are in a safe place, it is important to get medical attention. Even if you do not have any visible injuries, it is important to get checked out by a doctor or nurse. They can check for internal injuries and collect evidence that may be helpful later.
3) To Have an Advocate on Your Side
Being raped is an incredibly traumatizing experience. You may feel alone, scared, and helpless. But you are not alone. There are people who can help you through this difficult time, including lawyers who specialize in rape cases. They will act as an advocate for you to ensure you are safe, healthy, and receive the justice you deserve.
4) The Police May Not Take Your Case Seriously Enough
The police may not investigate your case as thoroughly as you want them to. They may also not be able to find the rapist. Even if they do, the prosecution may not take your case seriously enough and the rapist may only receive a slap on the wrist. A lawyer can help you investigate your case, build a strong prosecution, and hold the rapist accountable.
5) The Police Are Trained to Prosecute, Lawyers Are Trained to Defend
When you are the victim of a rape, you want someone on your side who is looking out for your best interests. The police are trained to prosecute the perpetrator and they will do everything in their power to make sure that person is convicted. A lawyer, on the other hand, is trained to defend you and make sure your rights are protected. It can be hard to even find the words to explain what happened or what you need from your attorney. That’s why we recommend contacting one immediately after a rape occurs so they can start working on your case before details fade away or evidence is lost.
If you have been the victim of sexual assault, contact a lawyer immediately to represent your case.