Being falsely accused of a crime can be a terrifying and frustrating experience. Unfortunately, false accusations do occur, and it’s important for those who are falsely accused to understand their legal rights. At the Law Office of Paul R. Moraski, our experienced Massachusetts criminal defense attorney can support you in building your defense. Call today to learn more.
Why False Accusations Happen
There are numerous reasons why someone may be motivated to make a false accusation about an occurrence of domestic violence. One common reason may be related to a civil proceeding, such as a child custody proceeding or divorce proceeding. If a person in such a proceeding makes a claim of domestic violence that is substantiated, it could impact the outcome of their civil suit.
In addition to civil cases, though, a person may be motivated to make a false claim of domestic violence because they have unresolved interpersonal issues with the alleged defendant and want to find a way to “punish” them.
Steps to Take if You’re Falsely Accused
If you are falsely accused of domestic violence, it’s important that you act quickly to protect your rights, as domestic violence charges are very serious and can have criminal implications.
The first thing to do is to stop contacting the alleged victim. Do not talk to them about the accusations, and do not approach them or attempt to make contact with them.
Next, you should start gathering evidence that speaks to your innocence. This could be proof that you haven’t been in contact with the alleged victim for months or even years, character statements from neighbors or others who know you well, and testimony from anyone who lives in the house or is familiar with the relationship.
Finally, you should consult with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Even if you did not commit the act of violence, an attorney is an important resource who can help to protect and prove your innocence.
Penalties for Domestic Violence You Should Know
Domestic violence is a serious crime in Massachusetts. In addition to having civil penalties, there can be criminal penalties associated with a conviction, too. According to Massachusetts General Laws, a person found guilty of domestic violence will be punished by imprisonment for up to 2.5 years or a fine of $5,000 or both. Penalties are more severe for secondary or subsequent offenses.
Get a Massachusetts Criminal Defense Attorney
You may think that an attorney isn’t necessary because you’re innocent, but this isn’t wise — if you’ve been accused of a crime, an attorney is always an important asset, regardless of the details. To learn more about your rights and how to protect them, call The Law Office of Paul R. Moraski directly at (978) 397-0011. You can also reach out to our law firm online.