Being accused of any criminal offense can leave you anxious and frightened. But what if you are falsely accused of domestic violence? Before you can even figure out how to defend yourself against false claims, you may find that you have been tried and convicted in the court of public opinion.
If you have been falsely accused of domestic violence, it is important that you do not sit back hoping that the truth will somehow come out after all. Most often, this is never the case. You need to work hard to clear your name from these false allegations and avoid potential jail time.
Here are important steps you need to take as soon as you learn about the false domestic violence charges against you.
Stop all contacts with your accuser
When you first learn about your estranged partner’s false claims, it might be tempting to talk to them with the goal of having them change their story and drop the charges. Unfortunately, this is never a prudent move. This kind of action is likely to be interpreted as an attempt to intimidate your victim. Instead, cut off all forms of communication with your accuser, especially on this subject. If you have to contact them, be sure to do so in the presence of a legal representative.
Start putting your evidence together
Ideally, the most effective way of proving that your accuser’s claims are false is to put together evidence that will help exonerate you and prove your innocence. In most domestic violence cases, your evidence can come in form of the following:
- Phone records
- Emails and text messages
- Police reports
- Eye witness accounts
- Surveillance footage
Obey any orders that might be in place
It is important that you do exactly what the law requires you to do. Failure to obey any existing court orders, such as restraining orders, will only make it difficult for you to defend yourself. If you have been instructed to show up for a court or mediation appointment, be sure to do so. The last thing you want is to appear to be undermining the law.
A conviction for domestic violence can potentially affect every aspect of your life, including your relationship with your children. If you have been falsely accused of domestic violence, it is important that you take specific steps to safeguard your rights.