Facing a false accusation of domestic violence in Cincinnati, Ohio, can be terrifying. You could lose your freedom, your reputation, and potentially even contact with your family, all before you’ve had a chance to defend yourself. If this has happened to you, it’s critical to act quickly and understand your legal rights.
Learn about what you should do if you’ve been falsely accused of domestic violence below.
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Why False Domestic Violence Accusations Happen
False allegations can happen in a wide range of situations; often, emotions play a major role. Sometimes, an argument between partners and/or family members escalates to the point that one person makes a false report.
Common reasons for false accusations include:
- Retaliation after a breakup or custody dispute
- Attempts to gain leverage in divorce proceedings
- Misunderstandings and exaggerated statements made in the heat of the moment
- False identification, such as misidentification by witnesses
Merely being accused of something you didn’t do can have life-changing consequences, making hiring a criminal defense lawyer crucial.
What Should I Do Under These Circumstances?
When you learn that someone has accused you of domestic violence, your first steps are crucial. Acting carefully can help you avoid serious mistakes that make your situation worse.
Here’s what you should do:
- Stay calm and avoid contact: Do not try to confront your accuser, even if you believe you can clear things up. This could lead to further accusations or a violation of a protective order.
- Follow all court orders: If the court issues a restraining or protective order, follow it completely. A violation can result in additional charges and jail time.
- Document everything: Save text messages and other correspondence or documentation that may show your side of the story. Write down what happened before, during, and after the alleged incident while it’s still fresh in your mind.
- Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately: It’s best to set up a free consultation with an attorney as soon as you possibly can.
The sooner you have legal representation, the better your chances of protecting your rights.
Possible Penalties for a Domestic Violence Conviction in Ohio
Under Ohio Revised Code § 2919.25, domestic violence includes knowingly causing or attempting to cause physical harm to a family or household member. Merely threatening such a person with harm can also lead to charges.
The penalties depend on the severity of the allegations and whether you have prior convictions:
- First offense: Misdemeanor charges can result in up to six months in jail and fines of up to $1,000.
- Repeat offenses: Prior convictions can raise the charge to a felony, carrying longer prison sentences and higher fines.
- Protective orders: You may be barred from contacting your spouse or other people who are involved in your case.
A conviction could remain on your record permanently unless it’s sealed or expunged, which is one reason among many why defending yourself aggressively is so important.
What Kinds of Evidence Can Help Prove My Innocence?
Evidence is often the key to disproving false allegations. Your lawyer may collect a wide range of information to build your defense, including:
- Electronic communications like texts, emails, and call logs
- Social media posts that contradict the accuser’s claims
- Witness statements from family and friends
- Security footage from nearby cameras or cell phone videos
- Medical or police reports that don’t support the alleged injuries
Don’t lose hope about what’s to come if you’re up against false accusations. You have legal rights in this situation and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
How a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Ohio Can Help if You’ve Been Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence
A respected criminal defense attorney can make a major difference in the outcome of your case. They can thoroughly investigate the situation to uncover the truth and protect your rights.
Your attorney can:
- Review the evidence and identify inconsistencies or false statements
- Interview witnesses and gather proof that supports your version of events
- Challenge improper police procedures or violations of your rights
- Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges
- Represent you in court if your case goes to trial
False allegations often collapse under careful scrutiny. Your lawyer can show the judge or jury that the evidence doesn’t add up and that the accuser’s story isn’t credible.
Contact a Trusted Cincinnati Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Attorneys Today for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been falsely accused of domestic violence in, it’s important to get legal representation on your side as soon as possible. The stakes are high, and every decision you make matters.
Contact a Cincinnati domestic violence attorney today for a free consultation. We can review the facts and circumstances of your case and help you work toward a favorable outcome.
