Accusations of domestic violence can leave a permanent stain on your reputation affecting both your personal and professional life.
If your partner or spouse has falsely accused you of domestic violence or you believe they may be planning to, there are a number of actions you should take right now to protect yourself. Remember, just because you know you’re innocent doesn’t mean the truth will ultimately win.
Here are five essential things to do to protect your freedom and reputation if you’ve been falsely accused of domestic violence in Wisconsin:
1: Don’t do or say anything that may be used against you in court
Accusations of domestic violence are fueled in part by casting the defendant in a bad light. Avoid engaging in arguments, mentioning any sort of violent acts, lashing out or otherwise combative behavior for any reason.
With the ease of recording thanks to smartphones and other technology, saying the wrong thing can easily be used against you in court in an attempt to present you as short-tempered and/or violent.
2: Contact an attorney as soon as possible
Getting in touch with a Wisconsin criminal defense or family law attorney is the most important thing to do when you’re accused of domestic violence.
Experienced lawyers have been through this process many times before and know exactly what to expect so they can help you prepare for what’s next, putting you in the best position to prove your innocence when the time comes.
Find a local domestic violence defense attorney who provides free consultations and contact them immediately.
Even if you don’t choose to hire them, a skilled attorney can give you extremely valuable information to help you understand your options. Click here for a free consultation with The Fitzgerald Law Firm.
Note: Do not speak to law enforcement unless a lawyer is present. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court. An experienced lawyer will ensure you don’t say anything incriminating leading up to the trial.
3: Notify family members
Depending on the situation at hand, your partner may try to turn your family against you. Family members can be extremely valuable in the courtroom as they can attest to your demeanor and behavior with a high degree of authority.
If you believe trouble is on the horizon, do everything you can to keep family members informed and prepared for accusations well ahead of time.
4: Change your login information on all accounts and devices
Anything that requires a username and password that your accuser may know should be changed immediately.
Accusers have been known to go as far as to send messages from defendants’ cell phones and social media accounts only to accuse them of sending threatening messages later. If you’re worried you might have missed something, here’s a list of the most important accounts to change:
- Bank accounts
- Computer login accounts
- Smartphone passwords
- Electronic vehicle entrances
- Social media accounts
- Email accounts
- Online profiles
5: Gather evidence of their abuse if it’s happening
Many times, the accuser of false allegations of domestic violence is actually perpetrating abuse themselves. If this is the case, begin gathering any evidence showing abusive tendencies, deception, or otherwise combative behavior.
With the help of a skilled attorney, this evidence can be a powerful tool for not only demonstrating wrongdoing on the part of the accuser, but making it clear that their accusations are unfounded and they’re not to be trusted.
If you’ve been falsely accused of domestic violence in Wisconsin or believe you may be in the future, click here for a free consultation with The Fitzgerald Law Firm. Our attorneys will be responsive to your needs, protect your rights throughout the process, and achieve for you the best possible result.
At The Fitzgerald Law Firm your initial consultation is always free and you will always meet directly with one of our attorneys. We understand that appointments during traditional working hours may not be convenient for all, and thus we strive to be available for evening, weekend, and off-site appointments. To schedule your FREE 15-minute attorney consultation, Contact Us now.
