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What if you are falsely accused of domestic violence?

Being accused of domestic violence comes with serious yet lasting consequences: an arrest, arraignment, order of protection, reputational damage and possible jail time if you are convicted. And since most domestic abuse claims generally involve intimate partners, they can be notoriously difficult to prove. 

While it is difficult to believe someone would lie about something as serious as domestic violence, it still happens. And when someone makes a false accusation against you, it is in your best interest that you figure out your defense options. 

Why do people lie about domestic abuse?

Most false domestic abuse claims happen when relationships are strained. Specifically, a partner can lie about domestic violence to achieve the following:

  • Justify their quest for divorce
  • Gain custody of the child
  • Hurt the partner’s reputation
  • Get revenge against the partner

Sometimes, your spouse can make a domestic violence claim following a heated argument. Perhaps, you were caught up in a misunderstanding that led to a shouting match, or the only physical contact you had was the grabbing of the other party’s wrist. Even if your accuser was not physically hurt, they might still claim domestic abuse. 

What do you do if you believe the domestic violence claim was false?

There is no doubt that a domestic violence accusation can be emotionally taxing. Even if you believe you are innocent, you might still be placed under investigation. You might want to speak to your accuser in an attempt to straighten things out. However, this is never a great idea, especially if there is an active order of protection against you.

Here are three steps you need to take as soon as you learn about the false domestic accusation claim against you:

  1. Gather your evidence – these can include an alibi, witness statement and surveillance footage 
  2. Secure your social media accounts
  3. Avoid any form of contact with your accuser

A false domestic violence claim can put your freedom, career and reputation at risk. Find out how you can defend yourself and protect your rights when facing false domestic violence claims.