Historic Sexual Abuse Cases
Historic sexual abuse cases are often based on allegations dating back many years. Our expert defence team at DPP Law will carefully examine the evidence, protect your rights, and build the strongest possible case.
Legal officials reserve the right to indefinitely extend the period of time during which cases involving historic sexual abuse or other sexual offences may be taken to court, depending on the severity of any potential charges involved.
If the victim of any sexual assault or abuse was under eighteen years old at the time the offence allegedly occurred, there will be no time limit put into effect at all until they reach their eighteenth birthday.
The DPP Law sexual offences team specialise in historic sexual abuse cases. We will help you build your defence against allegations of sexual abuse, we will do our very best to ensure that justice is correctly upheld.
While it may be difficult to get hold of evidence from many years ago that will help to prove your innocence, anything you can provide – from train tickets proving you weren’t in the area, to photographs, to witness statements – can help us to clear your name.
Historic sexual assault sentencing can extend to life in prison depending on the severity of the case.
If you’ve been accused of historical sexual abuse, the allegations may relate to any form of sexual offence, including:
- Rape
- Indecent assault
- Indecent exposure
- Harassment
- Creating or distributing indecent images
- Child sexual abuse
How DPP Law’s Sexual Offence Solicitors Can Help
DPP Law have successfully defended clients who have found themselves accused of abuse a long time after the date of the purported transgression, and understand that:
- Any claims made in relation to this offence will still be taken seriously even after a substantial passage of time.
- The sentence that may potentially be handed down could extend to life in prison.
- Any individual found guilty will be sentenced according to the regime currently in place, not that which was observed at the time of the alleged incident, if there is any difference between the two.
When you choose DPP Law for legal assistance and representation, you will be assured:
- Guaranteed confidentiality at all times
- A comprehensive check of forensics and evidence records
- Sensitive expert advice – first consultation FREE
However long ago the incident or incidents allegedly took place, an accusation of sexual abuse can prove extremely damning – both in a legal sense and with regards to your reputation and relationships. DPP Law can help. Get in touch with us today to discuss your case and your options.
FAQs
Yes. Most sexual offences have no time limit for prosecution in the UK, meaning allegations can be investigated and charged decades after the events.
The police will usually take a statement from the complainant, gather any available supporting evidence, and may invite or arrest you for interview. Cases often rely heavily on witness accounts, so early legal advice is essential to protect your position.
Yes. Many historic allegations proceed without forensic or physical evidence because of the time that has passed. A case can still be charged and go to trial based solely on witness testimony if the CPS believes it is credible and there is a realistic prospect of conviction.
Penalties vary depending on the allegation but can include lengthy prison sentences, placement on the sex offenders register, restraining orders, and long-term restrictions. The age of the case does not prevent serious sentences being imposed.
Defences may include challenging the credibility or consistency of the allegations, showing that events could not have happened as described, presenting alibi or timeline evidence, or highlighting the impact of long delays on the reliability of memories. The defence depends on the specific facts and evidence.
Do not ignore the contact or attend an interview without representation. Speak to a specialist solicitor immediately. They can advise you on whether to answer questions, prepare for interview, and ensure your rights are protected throughout the investigation.