We are happy to announce that our team at Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake recently achieved a win in a case where our client was charged with first-degree rape, a felony that could have resulted in life imprisonment. Using a focused, aggressive, and proactive defense strategy, we were able to effectively challenge the accusations, and the case was dismissed.
False Allegations of Rape
From the moment we took on our client's case, we knew that the rape accusations were false. This wasn't based on a hunch; rather it came from the alleged victim's own statements. They told not only private investigators that they lied about the rape but also the prosecutor and investigating detectives. Unfortunately, rape charges based on false allegations are common and affect the lives and freedoms of innocent people.
Although it would seem like an alleged victim admitting that they lied about what happened would be enough to end the case, it's generally not, and it wasn't so in our client's situation either. Rather than accept the alleged victim's false accounts, the prosecutor in our client's case proceeded to pursue the matter. They built their case off of the alleged victim's initial false statements and even hired expert witnesses to testify against our client.
Our Legal Strategy
When we take on a case, we fight hard on our client’s behalf, and we seek every legal avenue to combat the allegations made against them. In this recent case, we consulted with and hired our own experts, including a Forensic Nurse Examiner. Reviewing the evidence with them, we were able to develop strategies to employ during cross-examination. Our Forensic Nurse successfully discredited the testimony of the State's experts.
In addition to working with experts on this case, we also filed Constitutional Motions to Suppress and multiple Motions in Limine, which suppressed some of the State's evidence.
With our thorough investigation and our solid legal strategies, we were able to get the case dismissed entirely, helping our client return to his life.
Hire a Team Dedicated to Protecting Your Rights and Freedoms
When it comes to fighting your criminal charges, having an aggressive attorney on your side is crucial. The government does not pursue these matters lightly, and you could face harsh penalties if you’re convicted. At Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake, we are a team of former prosecutors with over 50 years of combined experience, which means we know how the other side thinks and prepares for cases. Our unique insight has allowed us to obtain favorable results for past clients, and we will be committed to working toward doing the same for you.
If you’ve been accused of a crime in Columbia, call (410) 927-5137 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.