It’s frightening to think about, but it can happen- an innocent person’s life is turned upside down because of a false accusation. A law enforcement officer shows up and begins questioning you about a crime someone has accused you of.

You know you’re innocent, but no one believes you- you have just been wrongly accused of a crime. Here’s what you need to know.

What You Should Do

Here are the steps to take if falsely accused of committing a crime:

• Retain the services of an experienced attorney.
• Put together a list of potential witnesses, including any individual who possibly has information about the incident, the alleged victim, or the allegations. Write down the witnesses’ contact information.
• Collect any physical evidence available to you pertaining to the incident, such as pictures, videos, clothing, or other objects.
• Collect documents associated with the case, including emails, letters, phone and GPS records, computer records, financial of legal documentation if relevant, or any other type of records that could substantiate your location when the incident took place.
• Make a list of existing evidence from the alleged crime scene that you were unable to remove from the area, including blood, bullet casings, documents, or other objects.

Further Reading: Felony DUI Law Goes Into Effect in Colorado

What You Should NOT Do

It is just as important to know what not to do when you are falsely accused of a crime, including:

• Discuss the investigation or answer any questions for law enforcement without your attorney being present.
• Agree to any testing, such as DNA tests, or submit any evidence to law enforcement- even if you think the evidence will demonstrate you are not guilty- without first conferring with your attorney.
• Approach the victim to discuss the case, or have any contact with the victim or witnesses. Even if you know the accuser well, any conversation with them could complicate matters.
• Make yourself appear more suspicious by defacing evidence you think might incriminate you.

How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help

If you have been falsely accused, but not charged with a crime, you need to consult with a criminal defense attorney and get specific advice for handling your particular situation. Boulder criminal defense attorney Steven Louth can offer insight into the alleged crime, and stand ready in case you are arrested or formally charged.

If you are formally charged with a crime of which you are not guilty, Attorney Steven Louth will weigh all your options, investigate the case, and prepare to preserve your good name, regardless of what situation lies ahead. Contact the Boulder criminal defense lawyers at Steven Louth Law Offices today for a free consultation and review of your case. Call us at (303) 422-2297 to start building a solid defense against these serious criminal charges.

Steps to Take if Falsely Accused of a Crime