How to Handle False Accusations of Domestic Violence

 Posted on July 26,2022 in Criminal Defense

If you and your spouse or significant other have a hostile relationship, it is possible that he or she may falsely accuse you of domestic violence. Although legitimate instances of domestic violence are sadly common, not every accusation of abuse turns out to be true. Being accused of domestic violence can negatively affect a person’s ability to maintain employment, spend time with their children, and continue relationships with friends and family. False accusations of abuse can also seriously impact divorce proceedings. If you have been accused of domestic violence, there are some things you can do to help protect yourself.

Notify Family Members About What is Happening

If a person has brought unsubstantiated accusations of domestic violence against you, you may feel overwhelmed, angry, betrayed, and confused about how to respond. The most important step you can take at this point is to contact a domestic violence defense attorney. Next, do not wait for the person falsely accusing you to contact your friends and family. If he or she reaches them first, he or she may be able to turn your loved ones away from you. It can be embarrassing to admit to such a situation, but hiding it will not help your case. Reaching out to others can also be helpful in working through the emotional pain that false accusations of domestic violence cause.

Create New Passwords

Experts also encourage those worried about being fraudulently accused of abuse to change their login information and passwords on all electronic devices. If the accuser has access to the accused’s cell phone, for example, he or she could use it to send threatening messages to himself or herself. To a judge, this will look like the accused actually sent the messages when in reality, he or she is the victim in this scenario. 

Protect Your Valuables

You should also be sure to take steps to protect valuable belongings and personal items. The type of person who would falsely accuse another of abuse may also be capable of other crimes. Move things like your birth certificate, driver’s license, and expensive personal possessions to a location that your accuser does not know about, such as a safe deposit box or with a trusted friend or family member.

Never Fight Back or Attempt to Evade a Temporary Restraining Order

It can be incredibly hard to stay silent while someone spreads horrible rumors about you. However, “fighting back” against a person accusing you of domestic violence, either physically or through words—including social media posts—will only add validity to their claims. Do not stoop to their level. If he or she gets a temporary restraining order (TRO) or an injunction against you, do not disobey the terms of the order. Even if you are innocent of the initial allegations, violating a restraining order can be punished by up to nine months in jail and fines of up to $1,000.

Contact a Milwaukee Domestic Violence Defense Attorney

At Bucher Law Group, LLC, we know that not every allegation of abuse is true and that those falsely accused of domestic violence deserve an aggressive, responsible defense. If you are facing such allegations, contact an experienced Waukesha criminal defense lawyer right away. Call 262-303-4916 to schedule your free, confidential consultation today.

Sources:

https://www.thehotline.org/identify-abuse/understand-relationship-abuse/

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/813/125