Being accused of a crime is one of the most traumatic experiences that a person can endure. It often feels like the whole world is against you if you are charged with a crime. You may find yourself scrambling to defend yourself and preserve your good name as well as your freedom.

Some people and organizations may even find themselves facing criminal or civil charges regarding crimes they knew nothing about. A school district in Colorado was reeling after one of its teachers admitted inappropriate sexual contact with several students in his school.

The teacher entered guilty pleas earlier this year to sexual assault, sexual exploitation and attempted sexual exploitation charges. As he faces up to 40 years in prison, his former employer will be paying more than $11 million to the families of his victims.

Three school administrators were charged in connection with failing to report allegations of sexual misconduct during the investigation, and the district was publicly criticized for its ineffectual handling of the situation. The school announced that, in addition to the financial settlement, it will increase efforts to train its staff to spot abuse and make other policy changes to keep its students safe.

If you are facing charges related to the commission or attempted concealment of a crime, you may start your criminal defense off on the right foot by retaining legal representation. An attorney can be helpful from the beginning, mediating exchanges with investigators and a legal strategy against the claims of prosecutors. No one should have to face criminal charges alone.