If you’ve been falsely accused of domestic violence or spousal assault, you may be experiencing any number of reactions. Shock, anger and fear are all perfectly reasonable responses to wrongful allegations of this nature. However, it’s dangerous to let emotion cloud your judgement. This is a serious situation that requires you to remain prudent and calm. Here are some general guidelines for those who’ve been accused.
Do not make a statement to the police
It’s natural to want to share your side of the story and clear your name as quickly as possible. However, making a statement to the police may do your case more harm then good. While asserting your right to remain silent doesn’t guarantee that police will stop questioning you as it does in the United States, if you maintain your conviction, it does ensure you won’t make potentially damaging statements. Be firm but polite with all police officers. And always remain civil with law enforcement officials.
Contact an assault lawyer
In Abbotsford, Richard D. Ballantyne is recognized as one of the best criminal defense attorneys on the lower mainland. It’s critical that you contact a criminal lawyer immediately following a charge of domestic violence. Spousal abuse is a serious crime here in Abbotsford and throughout Canada. If you’re found guilty the conviction can impact you for the rest of your life. It could affect your future career prospects, your ability to travel internationally and your parental rights. No matter how seemingly unfounded the allegation, it’s important that you get legal counsel.
Adhere to all bail conditions
No matter what the bail conditions might be, it’s very important that you honour them. For example, if one of the conditions of your bail is that you not have contact with your partner you must be sure to do so, even if he/she invites you to make contact. Breaking any of your bail conditions will reflect badly on you and be detrimental to your case.
Do not accept a guilt plea
Never sign a confession or otherwise acknowledge that you’re guilty of a crime you didn’t commit. It can be tempting to enter a plea bargain as you undoubtedly want to have the matter resolved as expeditiously as possible. However, once you’re convicted, the charge will be on your record for the rest of your life. You must consider the long-term ramifications and persevere until your name has been cleared.
Some final words of advice
Being falsely charged of domestic violence by someone you once cared about (and possibly still do) is a very painful situation in which to find oneself. However, you must remain calm and proceed rationally. Avoid any actions that could be deemed unfavourably by a judge and keep a clear head. Immediately employing an assault lawyer like Richard D. Ballantyne here in Abbotsford is the best strategy for untangling the legal nightmare you’ve entered. Contact our office right away to book a consultation.