False Criminal Abuse Allegations in Wisconsin
Being wrongly accused of criminal misconduct, like physical assault or sexual abuse, can be a terrifying ordeal that can turn your life upside down. False allegations can result in arrest, criminal charges, incarceration, reputation damage, job loss, and more. If you are facing fabricated abuse accusations, you must act quickly to protect your rights and start building your defense. A Wisconsin lawyer can help you with strategies to combat false criminal abuse allegations.
Potential Defenses Against False Abuse Accusations
There are several defenses you can raise against false criminal abuse allegations in Wisconsin, depending on the facts of your case:
- You have an alibi proving you could not have committed the alleged offense
- There is insufficient evidence to support the accusations
- Witness testimony, video footage, or other evidence contradicts the allegations
- The accuser has a history of dishonesty or making false reports
- The accuser has an ulterior motive to lie, such as revenge, jealousy, or financial gain
- You have evidence the allegations were fabricated, or the accuser was convinced to lie by someone else
- The accuser’s version of events is illogical, inconsistent, or contradicted by physical evidence
However, criminal abuse charges are very serious, and prosecutors aggressively pursue convictions. Overcoming false accusations requires compelling evidence in your favor. An attorney can help you identify the best defenses for your case and gather persuasive evidence to support them.
Crucial Steps to Take if Falsely Accused of Criminal Abuse
If you are dealing with fabricated abuse allegations, promptly take the following actions:
- Remain calm and do not contact the accuser
- Document everything, including timelines and details of events
- Compile any evidence you have that could be relevant, such as photos, videos, emails, texts, receipts, etc.
- Identify potential witnesses and evidence that could help exonerate you
- Comply with any orders from law enforcement or the court
- Assert your Fifth Amendment right to remain silent if questioned by police
- Hire a knowledgeable attorney right away
A lawyer is your best ally when falsely accused. He or she can advise you on handling the situation, deal with investigators on your behalf, and work to undermine the accusations against you and secure the best possible outcome. Avoid discussing the case with anyone except your attorney, as things you say could be misconstrued and used against you.
Navigating the Criminal Justice Process
If you are arrested, you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Promptly invoke these rights; do not talk to the police without your lawyer present. Within 72 hours of arrest, you have the right to a bail hearing before a judge.
If the prosecutor files formal criminal charges, you will be entitled to a preliminary hearing where the court decides if probable cause exists to bind the case over for trial. Your attorney can challenge the sufficiency of the state’s evidence at this hearing.
If the case moves forward to trial, your lawyer can attack the credibility of the accusations, cross-examine the state’s witnesses, present your side of the story, and argue for acquittal. With a strong defense, it is often possible to obtain dismissal of false charges, potentially succeed at trial, or negotiate an advantageous plea deal.
Work With a Milwaukee County, WI Criminal Defense Attorney
Facing phony allegations of criminal abuse is a harrowing experience, but you do not have to navigate it alone. The faster you consult with a Jefferson County, WI criminal defense lawyer, the better equipped you will be to defeat false accusations and move forward with your life. Call Bucher Law Group, LLC at 262-303-4916 to start with a free consultation.