What to Do After a False Accusation of Domestic Violence

 Posted on June 15, 2022 in Domestic Violence

Being charged with a crime you did not commit can be a nightmare. One of the most common offenses that innocent people are charged with is domestic violence. It is shockingly easy to be arrested for domestic violence based on a false accusation, often by an angry romantic partner. There are a number of reasons that people make these false accusations. It is extremely easy for a simple fight between a couple to spiral out of control. Perhaps a neighbor called the police because they heard yelling and the police arrested you for lack of a better solution. Or maybe your romantic partner intentionally filed a false police report out of spite. However it happened, it is extremely important that you focus on building a strong defense. A domestic violence conviction is heavily stigmatized and can impact the rest of your life.

Steps Innocent People Can Take After a Domestic Violence Arrest

How you handle the accusation will make all the difference. Steps you should take include:

• Get a lawyer - The most important thing you can do to help yourself is to find a good lawyer. A domestic violence charge is far too serious to handle on your own.
• Obey the protection order - If you were arrested for domestic violence, you were most likely served with a protection order that prevents you from contacting the alleged “victim” or going to their home. If you lived with the liar, this means you cannot return home. As difficult as it may be, it is extremely important that you strictly obey the terms of the restraining order. A violation can get you arrested again, and that charge might stick even if the original domestic violence charge goes away.
• Do not post about it - As tempting as it may be to lambast the person who made the false accusation on social media, or to vent about the situation to your followers, do not do this. It is best to avoid mentioning the charge or the alleged “victim” on social media entirely.
• Show up for court - As frightening and uncomfortable as it may be to appear before a judge for something you did not do, you absolutely must show up for court dates. If at all possible, try to find an attorney before your first court date.
• Prepare for trial - Domestic violence charges are very rarely just dropped. You may need to go to trial to fight the charge.

While being charged with a crime you did not commit is incredibly scary, dismissal or acquittal is possible. However, you must handle your case correctly.

Call a Cook County Criminal Defense Lawyer

Luisi Legal Group is committed to helping falsely accused individuals fight their domestic violence charges. Our experienced Chicago criminal defense attorneys will strive to ensure that you are not convicted for a crime you did not commit. Contact us at 773-276-5541 for a free consultation.

Source:

https://www.gmu.edu/news/2022-04/expert-addresses-common-misconceptions-about-men-who-experience-intimate-partner