Being accused of solicitation of a minor in Colorado can be one of the most frightening and confusing situations anyone can face. The charges are serious, and the consequences can be severe, affecting your life, relationships, and future. It is important to know how to handle such an accusation properly to protect your rights. Even if you believe there is a misunderstanding or false accusation, knowing what to do in this situation can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. Here are the steps to take if you find yourself accused of this crime. At, Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey , we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
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Free Consultation Download PDFStay Calm and Do Not Panic
The first and most crucial step if you are accused of solicitation of a minor in Colorado is to stay calm. It is understandable to feel scared, upset, or angry, but reacting impulsively can make things worse. Panicking or acting without thinking may lead to actions or words that could harm your case. It is important to take a deep breath and remember that staying calm will help you make better decisions during this difficult time. If you react in a way that makes you seem guilty or defensive, it could be used against you in court.
Do Not Talk to the Police Without a Lawyer
If the police want to question you about the accusation, it is very important not to speak to them without a lawyer present. You may think that explaining your side of the story will clear up the misunderstanding, but anything you say can be used against you. Law enforcement officers are trained to gather information that can help build a case, and they may ask questions in a way that could make you admit to something unintentionally. It is your legal right to remain silent and to ask for an attorney before answering any questions. This is a crucial step in protecting yourself and ensuring that your words are not taken out of context.
Do Not Try to Contact the Alleged Victim or Their Family
When accused of solicitation of a minor, you might feel the urge to explain yourself or apologize to the alleged victim or their family. However, contacting them can make things worse and may even lead to additional charges like harassment or witness tampering. Any attempt to communicate, even if it is just to clarify the situation, can be seen as an effort to influence the outcome of the case or intimidate the alleged victim. It is best to avoid any direct or indirect contact with the minor or their family. Your lawyer can handle all communications related to the case to prevent misunderstandings or actions that could harm your defense.
Gather and Preserve Evidence
If you are accused of solicitation of a minor, it is important to start gathering and preserving any evidence that could help prove your innocence. This might include text messages, emails, social media interactions, or other forms of communication. Save any messages that show your side of the story, especially if they show you were unaware of the person’s age or if the conversation was not inappropriate. Be careful not to delete any messages or information because it could make it look like you are trying to hide evidence. Keep a record of everything, as this information could be helpful to your attorney in building your defense.
Bridgette Carabajal
I've had the pleasure of working with Mr. Hanchey on two occasions, and each interaction has been nothing short of exceptional. His professional demeanor, coupled with the outstanding support from his staff significantly alleviated any anxieties I had. I am thoroughly satisfied with the outcomes achieved. Should the need for legal representation arise in the future, Mr. Hanchey will undoubtedly be my first choice.
Lucas Garcia
Mark Hanchey has been excellent. I spoke with him last minute before my court date. He still showed up to court with me and was very caring and helped me before I had even officially hired him. I felt like he cared about me and my case. He knows his craft very well and you can tell that the judge and other attorneys respect him when he is in court. He is also very kind. I recommend him to anyone. An excellent attorney.
Renee Braucht
I had an amazing experience with the Hanchey Law Firm! Mr. Hanchey got me the absolute best result I could have imagined for my case. I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve heard, “wow, you must have had a really good lawyer!” when discussing the result. I live far from Colorado Springs, but I will forever make the trip for this firm when I need them! Highly recommend!
David Walker
I have needed to use a lawyer a couple of times over the past several years and have used Mark Hanchey. He is a very down to earth person who has always treated me with dignity and has always been straight forward. His staff has also been professional and friendly. Each time I used Mark Hanchey the result was a positive one. I also think his fees are reasonable. I cant say enough good about Mark Hanchey.
Hire an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
One of the most important steps you can take if you are accused of solicitation of a minor in Colorado is to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney. A lawyer who is familiar with handling these types of cases can provide you with valuable advice and represent you in court. They will help you understand the charges against you, the potential penalties, and what to expect during the legal process. A good attorney will also examine the evidence, look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and help you build a strong defense. Trying to handle the situation on your own can be risky because of the serious nature of the charges and the complex legal system.
Understand the Charges and Possible Penalties
Understanding what you are being accused of and the possible penalties is an essential part of preparing your defense. Solicitation of a minor in Colorado is a serious crime that involves attempting to persuade, entice, or encourage someone under the age of 18 to engage in illegal activities, such as sexual acts. Even if there was no physical contact, just the attempt or communication can lead to charges. The penalties for this crime can be severe, including jail time, fines, and being required to register as a sex offender. Knowing what you are facing can help you and your lawyer plan your defense strategy effectively.
Prepare for Court Hearings
After being accused of solicitation of a minor, you will likely have to attend several court hearings, including arraignments, pre-trial conferences, and possibly a trial. It is important to take these hearings seriously and to prepare for them with the help of your lawyer. Arriving on time and dressing appropriately shows respect for the court and can make a good impression. Your lawyer will guide you on what to expect during each hearing and help you understand how to behave and what to say. Being prepared and knowing what to expect can help reduce your anxiety and increase your chances of a positive outcome.
Avoid Discussing the Case with Others
When facing charges like solicitation of a minor, it is tempting to talk about the case with friends or family members to get their support. However, this can be a big mistake. Anything you say to others about the case can be used against you in court, even if it is taken out of context. People might misunderstand or misinterpret your words and could end up giving information to law enforcement that harms your case. It is best to keep discussions about the case limited to your lawyer, who is legally bound to keep your information confidential. This will help protect your rights and prevent unintentional harm to your defense.
Follow the Legal Advice Given by Your Attorney
Once you have hired a criminal defense attorney, it is important to listen to their advice and follow their guidance. Your lawyer has the experience needed to navigate the legal system and will know the best strategies for your defense. Trusting their advice can be hard, especially when you are scared or frustrated, but ignoring their guidance can hurt your case. If your lawyer suggests certain actions, such as attending counseling sessions or avoiding certain behaviors, it is in your best interest to follow these recommendations. By doing so, you show the court that you are taking the charges seriously and are willing to cooperate.
Stay Out of Trouble During the Legal Process
While your case is ongoing, it is crucial to avoid any activities that could get you into further legal trouble. Being accused of another crime, even if it is minor, can complicate your case and may make it harder for your lawyer to defend you. It is important to follow all laws, attend all scheduled court hearings, and avoid situations that could be viewed as inappropriate. This includes staying away from places where minors may be present without proper supervision. By demonstrating good behavior during this time, you show the court that you are a responsible individual and help improve the chances of a better outcome in your case.
Consider the Impact of a Conviction and Seek Support
A conviction for solicitation of a minor can have long-term effects on your life. It may lead to difficulties in finding a job, housing, or maintaining personal relationships. In addition to the legal consequences, the emotional toll of facing such serious charges can be overwhelming. It is important to seek support from trusted friends, family members, or a therapist who can help you cope with the stress and anxiety during this time. Taking care of your mental health is important because it can help you make better decisions and handle the situation with a clearer mind. Remember, the support you receive can help you get through this challenging time.
If you or a loved one is accused of solicitation of a minor in Colorado, it is vital to act quickly and seek professional legal assistance. The legal process can be complicated, and having a strong defense is essential to protect your future. The Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey understands the seriousness of these charges and is committed to providing you with the legal support you need. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you navigate this challenging time and work towards the best possible outcome for your case.