Domestic violence occurs all-too-often in the United States. In fact, someone is abused by an intimate partner every 3 seconds in the United States. When something this awful is happening to more than 10 million people each year in our country, it’s a serious issue. But there is another issue that’s becoming all-too-familiar to our criminal lawyer in Fort Collins: people being falsely accused of domestic violence.
WHY PEOPLE ARE FALSELY ACCUSED
The penalties for domestic violence in Colorado are harsh, swift, and far-reaching. Having a domestic violence charge on your record can keep you from applying for certain jobs, living in certain locations, and could even hinder your future education opportunities as well as your love life. For people who have been falsely accused, it’s an especially troubling situation. They may have been falsely accused because a former partner wanted revenge for some reason or simply wanted to punish them for getting out of the relationship. Whatever the reasons, it’s hard to prove that domestic violence didn’t take place, so you’ll want an experienced criminal lawyer on your side.
WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU’VE BEEN ACCUSED
STAY CALM.
Emotions are going to run high when you’ve been accused of violence, but your accuser is hoping that you’ll make a mistake. Stay calm and keep a cool head so you don’t end up doing something that can be used against you later.
COMPLY WITH THE COURT.
Be polite with the police and the judges. If you are released on bail, make sure you show up for your next court date. Show the courts that you are eager to comply with their requests and follow the rules. This creates a good impression about your character.
DON’T MEET WITH ACCUSER ALONE.
Do not, under any circumstances, be alone with your accuser again. If you need to meet with them for some reason, take witnesses with you or ask the police to go along. Being alone with them gives them an opportunity to set you up for more false accusations.
PROTECT YOURSELF.
Being falsely accused is extremely stressful, so be sure you take care of yourself. Talk to friends and family about what’s happening and reach out to them when you need support. Change your passwords on all of your online accounts so your former partner can’t gain access. Taking care of yourself is more important than ever right now.
HIRE AN ATTORNEY.
This is the most important thing you need to do. The legal ramifications of a domestic violence charge are enormous, so you need to have a lawyer on your side who can fight for you. Hire a criminal lawyer who has experience with both domestic violence cases and false accusations. They’ll be better equipped to handle your case and help you achieve the best possible outcome. Remember, you should be absolutely honest with your lawyer; this will help them give you better advice.
CALL OUR CRIMINAL LAWYER FOR A FREE CONSULTATION
If you are facing domestic violence charges, contact our law office for a free consultation. We offer aggressive defense without judgment for domestic violence charges and we’re ready to fight for you! Call us or contact us through our website today.
