| If you've been falsely accused of a domestic violence | | | | incriminate yourself. Be wary of court-appointed |
| crime, don't delay to speak with a domestic violence | | | | counselors, psychologists and interviewers. Ask for a |
| attorney. Proper legal advice is pertinent to build an | | | | third party psychologist to interview every family |
| adequate defense in a court of law, and a | | | | member involved if possible. You'll want all interviews |
| court-appointed attorney will not likely provide the | | | | and observations made from an objective point of |
| complex legal help you need in such a case. | | | | view. Also, be willing to take a lie detector test - |
| Being falsely accused of domestic violence should not | | | | even if you have to pay for it out of pocket! |
| be taken lightly. It is a serious offense. Judge and | | | | If children are involved, never speak with social |
| jury are often sympathetic toward the abused, even | | | | workers without your domestic violence attorney |
| if that person has not really been "abused" as he or | | | | present. Social workers will do all that's possible to |
| she states. A conviction of domestic violence can | | | | build a case against anyone accused of abusing a child |
| bring life-changing consequences for you and your | | | | or spouse. |
| family. It can also affect any future divorce or | | | | Be sure to document everything said and mail |
| custody cases if children are involved. | | | | yourself notarized copies to establish correct dates |
| Take these Tips to Heart | | | | and credibility. Keep a daily journal, and be sure to |
| Don't admit to a crime you didn't do. Perhaps an | | | | look for any inconsistencies in files concerning the |
| ex-wife or ex-girlfriend wishes to get revenge by | | | | case. One inconsistency in the accuser's testimony or |
| falsely accusing you of abuse. Never confess to an | | | | documentation could get the charges dropped. |
| act you didn't commit, even if it seems more | | | | Don't attempt to defend yourself...even if you are |
| favorable or easy to do so at the time. Try to make | | | | innocent. It's too risky. Only an experienced domestic |
| bail as soon as possible if incarcerated so you can try | | | | violence lawyer will know all the legalities and how to |
| to mend the relationship and/or gather evidence, | | | | build a solid defense against false accusations. You |
| witnesses and character references in your defense. | | | | can search online for a reliable lawyer in your local |
| It's difficult to create an adequate defense if you're | | | | area. Just use keyword searches with your state |
| in jail. Your lawyer will be able to assist you more | | | | name, such as "Florida domestic violence attorney." |
| thoroughly if you are available at all times. | | | | This will narrow your search to attorneys in your |
| Speak with your domestic violence lawyer about | | | | area. Visit the lawyer's website for more information |
| your rights and what you should and should not do | | | | and to set up an interview. Hiring a reputable lawyer |
| when you appear for questioning or court. A good | | | | is the best decision you'll make. |
| attorney should be able to coach you so you won't | | | | |