What Should I Do if I Was Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is a serious crime that may result in penalties ranging from steep fines and restraining orders to mandatory prison sentences. The laws against domestic violence and the penalties imposed are meant to prevent abusive behavior and protect survivors of this type of abuse. However, not all accusations of domestic violence are true, and a false claim can have devastating personal, legal, and financial consequences for the accused.
Several reasons may cause someone to falsely accuse another person of domestic violence, including the following:
- Retaliation or revenge: In some cases, a spouse or domestic partner may make a false accusation of domestic violence in an effort to retaliate for the relationship ending, suspected infidelity, or other perceived wrongs.
- Seeking advantage in divorce or custody proceedings: Divorce can bring out the worst in people, and if one spouse does not want a divorce or is unhappy with the proposed alimony or custody agreement, they may resort to making a false accusation of domestic violence.
- Mental health issues: If a spouse or partner is suffering from a mental health issue, they may make a false accusation based on delusions, hallucinations, or other symptoms of their mental illness.
- Seeking attention: In some cases, an individual may falsely accuse their spouse or partner of domestic violence to seek attention, sympathy, or support from others.
If you were falsely accused of domestic violence, it is crucial that you have a skilled criminal defense lawyer on your side who will protect your legal rights.
You should take the following steps with help from your lawyer:
- Gather evidence: Collect any evidence that may help support your case. This may include photographs, text message emails, and other documentation that can help prove your innocence.
- Present your side of the story: Provide a clear and consistent account of what happened, and stay calm and composed. Avoid exaggerating facts or making false statements, which can harm your credibility.
- Present character witnesses: If you have friends, family members, colleagues, or anyone else who can testify to your character and help counter the false accusations, they can present their testimony in court.
- Challenge the accuser’s credibility: If the statement provided by the accuser is inconsistent or based on unreliable information, you can challenge their credibility.
- Consider possible defense strategies: Some strategies may be more effective depending on the circumstances. Your criminal defense lawyer will recommend the best course of action.
Savannah Criminal Defense Lawyers at Kicklighter Law Represent Clients Who Are Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence
If you were falsely accused of domestic violence, contact our Savannah criminal defense lawyers at Kicklighter Law as soon as possible. These are serious charges, and we can work tirelessly to examine the case details, address your questions and concerns, and recommend the best defense strategy. To schedule a free consultation, call 912-754-6003 or contact us online. Located in Springfield, Georgia, we serve clients in Effingham County, Savannah, and the surrounding areas.