False accusations of domestic violence can have serious consequences, from damaging relationships and reputations to criminal charges. Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects many people, but unfortunately, it is also used as a weapon against innocent people. If you’ve been falsely accused of domestic violence, knowing your rights and how to defend yourself is important. In this blog post, we will discuss how you can protect yourself against false allegations of domestic violence.
What Is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence in Texas is an assault against a family member, household member, or current or past dating partner. There are three types of domestic violence in Texas.
The first type is knowingly, recklessly, or intentionally causing bodily injury to another person. This includes intentionally causing physical pain or injury and recklessly causing serious bodily injury.
The second type is knowingly or intentionally threatening another person with imminent bodily injury. This refers to using words, gestures, or other means to indicate that the offender is going to cause bodily harm to the victim.
The third type is knowingly or intentionally causing physical contact with another person that the offender knows or should reasonably know the victim will find provocative or offensive. It includes sexual contact without consent, such as unwanted touching or fondling.
What Are the Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction?
In Texas, domestic violence convictions can have serious consequences. The penalties for domestic violence range from a Class C misdemeanor, which comes with a fine of up to $500 and no jail time, to a first-degree felony, which carries a fine of up to $10,000 and up to 99 years in prison.
In addition to these immediate penalties, a domestic violence conviction can have a lasting impact on your life. It could affect your job opportunities, ability to own a firearm and housing options. Domestic violence convictions could also lead to a loss of parental rights and even deportation for non-citizens. The consequences of a domestic violence conviction are severe. If you’ve been arrested for or charged with family violence, you should be proactive and take your arrest or charges seriously.
How Can You Protect Yourself Against False Accusations of Domestic Violence?
If you face false accusations of domestic violence or another crime, you must take the necessary steps to protect yourself. The first step is to contact a skilled Collin County criminal defense attorney with specific experience in domestic violence cases. An experienced attorney can give you the advice and representation you need to protect your rights. They can also help you understand the legal process and develop an effective defense strategy on your behalf.
It’s crucial to remember that if a protective order was issued, you must not breach it. Even if you think the charges against you are false, it’s best to err on caution and obey the order. If you have children, it’s also a good idea to find ways to show that you are a good parent. Courts often look favorably upon parents who commit to their children and try to do what is best for them.
In addition, you should let your lawyer know of any evidence that could help prove your innocence, such as pictures and videos. These can help show what was happening during the alleged incident. Also, tell your lawyer about your relationship with the accuser and what you did when they claimed you assaulted them.
If you’re falsely accused of domestic violence, stay focused on what matters: your defense. Don’t let an antagonistic person bait you or intimidate you. Remember that you are innocent until proven guilty. Your lawyer can investigate the circumstances of the allegations and determine whether getting the charges against you dismissed or reduced is possible.
Speak with a Texas Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer
After being falsely accused of domestic violence, contact a Collin County domestic violence defense lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced defense attorney can help protect your rights and build a strong defense against the accusations.
At Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian, we understand the gravity of domestic violence charges and will fight vigorously to protect your rights and pursue your desired outcome. We have years of experience dealing with false allegations of domestic violence. We know how to work through the complex legal process, and we have strategies we can call upon to present the best case possible for you.
Contact us today by calling (972) 369-0577 for a legal consultation with an experienced McKinney domestic violence lawyer.
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