A false accusation of domestic violence is terrifying to face, since it can keep you from your children, saddle you with a criminal record, and land you in jail. The reasons for a false accusation are many, but it often occurs during divorces, custody battles, or as revenge for a break up or other perceived slight. Fortunately, you do have options when it comes to defending your innocence.
Get Help
Although you likely know that your first phone call should always be to an attorney that specializes in the defense of those accused of domestic violence, you also need to be careful about who else you notify. Not everyone can be trusted, which is something you must keep in mind during this emotionally trying time. If you are trying to build a support network, only call friends and family that you know you can trust. Those with no ties to your accuser are best. Often, a false accuser will try and turn your family against you as another method of wearing you down and punishing you. At the same time, mutual friends may not believe your side of the story, or they may pretend to believe you so they can plant false evidence or bear false testimony later. If you feel as though you can't trust anyone in your current circle, you may want to contact a therapist or counselor to help you through this.
Know the Motivation
Often, false accusations come with a clear motive, which your attorney will need to know so they can begin building an accurate defense. Divorce, child custody, and break-ups are common. You need to come clean, even if you aren't completely innocent. For example, if you committed adultery and your spouse is bringing domestic violence charges against you as revenge, this is something your attorney needs to know.
Cooperate Fully
Your attorney will need to collect evidence to prove that you did not commit the abuse you are accused of. This may include psychological evaluations, probing questions, and interviews with family, friends, and associates. Allow your attorney to do their job, even if you find their methods of collecting evidence uncomfortable or if you are afraid of embarrassment. Don't allow pride to lead to wrongful conviction. Revealing a few skeletons in your closet is much better than being found guilty of domestic violence.
Guard Your Actions
Finally, don't let your frustration, hurt, or anger lead to stupid mistakes. For example, don't post anything on social media that appears violent or disparaging to your accuser. In fact, the best course of online action is silence. Temporarily close down your profiles or at least set them to private, and avoid posting anything to do with your case.
Also, take the time to change all of your passwords and even your cell phone number. You don't want the accuser to gain access to these and send themselves false threatening messages that appear to be from you.
Although this is a difficult time, having the right attorney on your side can help you get through it. Soon, you can put it behind you and begin living your life again. For more information, visit sites like http://www.jdlarsonlaw.com.
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