Defence in sexual-offence matters
Sexual offences
Sexual-offence charges call for rigorous preparation, close reading of the evidence and a careful understanding of the special rules that apply, including those governing the complainant's testimony.
Files handled by Me Daniela Velandia and Me Stéphane Pouyes.
Can VP Avocats help?
Yes. Every situation is handled with seriousness, discretion and without judgment, in keeping with the right to a full defence.
Situations and charges covered
- Sexual assault
- Sexual touching of minors
- Child pornography
- Luring
- Invitation to sexual touching
- Indecent act
- Voyeurism and non-consensual sharing of intimate images
Similar situations not covered
- Private complaints that were never received by the police
- Civil representation of a complainant seeking compensation
- Claims before IVAC (crime-victim compensation)
What can happen next
- The next steps depend on the charges and the conditions imposed.
- A lawyer can explain the possible scenarios after reviewing the file.
Evidence usually examined
- Documents given by police
- Communications and documents in your possession that may be relevant
- A detailed timeline of events, to the extent possible
Mistakes to avoid, immediate steps
- Saying anything at all before speaking with a lawyer
- Failing to respect no-contact conditions
- Trying to delete messages, photos or posts
- Discussing the file at work, at school or on social media
Our approach
We represent our clients in court: you do not need to attend, except at the judge's request, at trial where applicable and at the conclusion of the file. We assess whether a preliminary inquiry is possible, review evidence that is often extensive, and take the time to gather your version and discuss it as many times as necessary. We do not judge, whatever the situation.
Case stages
- Confidential first contact and initial assessment
- Assessment of whether a preliminary inquiry is possible
- Full review of the evidence: multi-hour video interrogations, written statements, multiple events
- Repeated meetings to gather your version and discuss it as often as needed
- Referrals to resources that can help you through the judicial process
- Presentation of the options — plea or trial — with your budget in mind; the choice is yours, we impose nothing
Useful documents and information
- Undertaking or summons to appear
- Any relevant evidence: text messages, photos, videos
- Release order, if applicable
- Valid identification
Possible consequences
- Criminal record
- Imprisonment
- DNA order
- Sex-offender registry
- Loss of reputation
- Probation and restrictive conditions
Lawyers on this practice
Frequent questions
Do I automatically risk jail?
No. However, where the alleged acts are serious or involve minors, case law strongly suggests custodial sentences.
Will I automatically be placed on the sex-offender registry?
No. Since 2022, it is possible to argue an exception depending on the circumstances of your situation.
Do I absolutely have to testify at trial?
These files often turn on conflicting versions, so it is generally preferable for the accused to testify — unless counsel considers that the evidence as a whole could not convince the court beyond a reasonable doubt.
Can my conditions be changed?
Yes, but only for reasons that are truly necessary or relevant.
This page is informational. It does not constitute legal advice and does not guarantee any outcome.
Contact
Contact us
A first call is free and without obligation. For urgent situations, call our 24/7 line directly.