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False allegations of abuse harm you in the long term

On Behalf of | Aug 10, 2017 | Assault |

Domestic abuse is serious, and it injures and takes the lives of many people each year. Although it is a horrible situation for victims, there are also people who are accused of domestic violence who never participated in a crime.

These individuals face a lifetime of scrutiny and a negative criminal record despite doing nothing wrong. In their cases, being proactive and fighting the allegations before they become charges is key to having the case dropped. If the case does go to court, a strong defense can help them defend themselves successfully.

What should you do if you’re accused of domestic abuse?

The first thing you should do is exercise your Fifth Amendment rights. You don’t have to talk to anyone until you speak with your attorney. Even if you know you never hurt anyone or were violent, you don’t have to say anything right away. Your attorney can help you devise the best way to approach the situation so that you have a good chance of walking away without a conviction or charge.

Why would someone accuse you of domestic abuse that never happened?

One reason might be due to a mistaken identity. If you look like the person the individual lived with or stayed with for a short time, then he or she may have mistaken you for the true aggressor. Although it is unlikely, this could happen if you are a twin or triplet, for example.

Another reason is revenge. If you did something a lover or roommate did not like, that person could make false allegations against you to hurt your reputation and “ruin your life.”

Fortunately, no matter what the person’s reason is for making the allegations, you have a right to defend yourself. Your defense should start the moment you’re accused of domestic assault.