Historic Sexual Offence Allegations – Defending Against Old Claims in the UK

Historic sexual offence allegations involve claims about events that took place years or even decades ago. These cases are challenging because of the passage of time, faded memories, and the difficulty of locating evidence from the past.

At Makwanas, we have extensive experience defending clients accused of historic sexual offences, including allegations dating back to the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. We know how to uncover evidence, identify inconsistencies, and highlight the problems with prosecuting very old allegations.

Book Your Free Discovery Call Today – Specialist advice for defending historic allegations.

Why Historic Allegations Are Prosecuted

Police and the Crown Prosecution Service take historic allegations seriously, especially in light of increased public awareness. These cases are often brought:

• Following new witness statements.
• After media coverage prompts fresh complaints.
• When victims feel able to come forward years later.

Defence Challenges in Historic Cases

1. Memory Reliability

Memories fade, and witness accounts can change over decades.

2. Missing Physical Evidence

Items that could prove innocence may no longer exist.

3. Lost or Destroyed Records

School, employment, or travel records may be unavailable.

4. Alibi Proof

Establishing where you were at the time can be difficult but not impossible.

Defence Strategies for Historic Allegations

• Inconsistency Analysis – Comparing old and new statements for contradictions.
• Background Investigations – Finding people who knew both parties at the time.
• Timeline Reconstruction – Proving you could not have been at the alleged location.
• Challenging Delay Prejudice – Arguing the delay makes a fair trial impossible.

The Law on Delay in Sexual Offence Cases

UK law does not set a time limit for prosecuting sexual offences. However, excessive delay can be challenged if it:

• Prejudices the defence.
• Makes it impossible to have a fair trial under Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights.

FAQs: Historic Sexual Offence Defence

Can you be charged decades after an alleged offence?

Yes — there is no statute of limitations for sexual offences in the UK.

Is old evidence still admissible?

Yes, but the defence can challenge its reliability.

Can I get a fair trial after so many years?

We can argue that the delay has prejudiced your case.

Can I prove my innocence without physical evidence?

Yes — through witness testimony, records, and inconsistencies.

Do juries believe historic allegations?

They are instructed to consider the passage of time, but strong defence work is essential.

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