Facing false accusations of domestic violence in Middletown, NY, can feel frightening and unfair, especially if you had no warning that a complaint was coming. In New York, “domestic violence” is not a standalone criminal charge but refers to certain offenses committed between members of the same family or household.
These cases are about protecting your future and your freedom, and it’s difficult to do without professional legal help. Larkin Ingrassia Andrews Criminal Defense Attorneys has more than 50 years of combined experience handling criminal defense cases just like yours. Call our law office today at (845) 447-9686 to schedule a free consultation with a Middletown domestic violence lawyer.
Below are some steps you should follow if you are facing false accusations of domestic violence.
Why Choose Larkin Ingrassia if I’m Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence in Middletown, NY?
When you’re confronting a false domestic violence allegation in Middletown, New York, whether it’s a felony or a misdemeanor, you can’t put your future in just anyone’s hands. Hiring Larkin Ingrassia means getting real support in the toughest times, not just becoming another case in a big stack of files.
Here’s what we offer:
- Decades of combined legal experience protecting good people from life-altering charges in New York courts
- Middletown criminal defense lawyers who have been recognized with a 5-star Avvo rating and rated by Super Lawyers
- A firm with over 50 five-star Google reviews
Navigating a false accusation on your own could put everything at risk. Don’t assume that you can just tell your side of the story and the charges will go away. You should seek legal assistance from an experienced Middletown domestic violence attorney.
Contact our law office to arrange a complimentary consultation.
Stay Calm and Don’t Confront The Accuser
If you’re falsely accused of domestic violence, your first instinct might be to confront the alleged victim and defend yourself. You should absolutely avoid this. Contacting them can lead to more legal trouble for you, even additional criminal charges in some cases.
Document Your Side of Things
It’s also important that you document what really happened. If the incident is totally made up, then you want to make sure you have a timeline of where you were during the alleged incident. Also, gather any proof of your whereabouts, which could include receipts, video footage, witness testimony, calendar entries, or anything else that will help prove you couldn’t have committed the crime.
Understand The Penalties for Domestic Violence in Middletown, NY
Understanding the severity of the charges you’re facing is an important step for defendants. There isn’t one single domestic violence penalty in New York; sentencing depends entirely on the specific crime and how seriously it’s charged.
Penalties will vary widely based on whether it’s a misdemeanor, felony, or related offense, but possible outcomes include:
- Jail time
- State prison sentences
- Probation
- Fines
- Mandatory counseling or court-ordered intervention programs
- A permanent criminal record
- Orders of protection, which could require you to stay away from the alleged victim
The full range of potential punishments depends on your exact circumstances.
Consider the Defenses Available Against False Domestic Violence Accusations
If you are wrongly accused of domestic violence, a strong legal defense can help challenge the accusations and protect your rights. The defense your attorney builds will fit your specific circumstances, but it’s helpful if you understand some of the defenses as well.
Common defenses include:
Lack of Evidence
To be convicted, the prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime. If they don’t have enough evidence — for example, no medical records from the alleged victim and just their testimony — your lawyer can poke holes in the story and may be able to show that you’re innocent and obtain a not guilty verdict.
Show Motive for False Allegations
When you’re facing false allegations, there’s usually a clear reason why. Maybe you’re in the middle of a divorce or custody dispute with the alleged victim, or they’re upset that you broke up with them. Whatever it is, tell your lawyer the whole story so they can try to gather evidence showing their ulterior motives.
Self-Defense or Defense of Others
If the alleged victim was injured, you can argue that it occurred because you were defending yourself. You can provide your own medical records to show your injuries, or possibly witness statements or video footage if it exists.
These are just some examples of possible defenses. The best one depends on a careful review of your situation. Reach out to a lawyer right away so they can help you build your case and move forward with your life.
Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately
Make sure you reach out for legal help as soon as possible. They can help you in many different ways, and can be with you during any interrogations by law enforcement. This ensures that you don’t say anything that can be misconstrued or used against you in court.
Your lawyer will also investigate the case, speak with witnesses, and negotiate with the prosecutor for possible reduced or dismissed charges where appropriate. If the case proceeds to trial, they’ll handle every aspect of the case and represent you in court.
Call Larkin Ingrassia for a Free Consultation With a Middletown Domestic Violence Lawyer
Going through a domestic violence allegation you know isn’t true is overwhelming, but you have rights. Reach out today to Larkin Ingrassia if you need help. Our Middletown domestic violence attorneys are here for you and will be happy to explain your options in a free consultation.