Like most states, Washington takes allegations of domestic violence seriously. While domestic abuse does happen, there are times when an alleged victim falsely accuses a spouse, dating partner, or ex of engaging in acts of domestic violence. Even if these allegations are later shown to be false, any accusations of this nature can trigger serious and lasting consequences, such as arrests, criminal charges that a prosecutor will take to trial, no-contact orders, GPS Monitoring, and reputational damage. If you are facing false domestic violence allegations in Washington state, you need immediate and reliable legal representation to ensure that your rights are protected at every step of the legal process. With a highly qualified and caring Camas and Vancouver domestic violence defense lawyer by your side, you can move through the criminal justice process and trust that your freedom and future will be protected as much as possible.
Why False Allegations of Domestic Violence Happen in Washington State
There are many factors that may prompt someone to make false accusations of domestic violence against a partner, spouse, or ex. For instance, false DV allegations can arise during particularly contentious and heated child custody disputes or divorce cases, with the accuser hoping to leverage these allegations in order to secure a more favorable outcome. Other instances of false accusations arise out of one person’s motive for revenge, or to manipulate another person into seeing them as the victim. We also see false domestic violence allegations that are the result of misunderstood arguments or erroneous third-party reports. Regardless of the specific circumstances of your domestic violence case, it’s essential that you enlist the guidance of an experienced and dedicated Camas domestic violence criminal attorney to help you navigate this challenging time.
The Consequences of Domestic Violence Allegations in Southwest Washington
As soon as an allegation of domestic violence arises, law enforcement will arrive at the scene and act according to Washington state’s mandatory arrest without warrant laws, if applicable. Depending on the details of the situation, the court may approve emergency protective orders against the defendant. The defendant may be compelled to vacate their shared home, cease all contact with the alleged victim, wear and pay for an ankle monitor (GPS Monitor), surrender any firearms or weapons, and face a loss of gun rights, among other consequences. A domestic violence conviction carries serious and lasting penalties, such as imprisonment, costly fines, the loss of firearm rights, immigration consequences, and custody restrictions in family court. If you are in need of protection order defense, reach out to a highly qualified Camas criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
How to Defend Against a False Domestic Violence Charge in Camas, Vancouver, or Ridgefield
When you go over the details of your case with your domestic violence defense lawyer, you can identify the most effective legal strategy that aims to secure you the best possible outcome. Together, you can gather witness testimony to undermine or question the validity of the accuser’s account and provide phone or text evidence to disprove or discredit their claims. In some cases of egregiously false domestic violence allegations, you may be able to file counter-statements or civil claims to account for the disastrous reputational damage and emotional distress you suffered because of these false claims. Now is not the time to leave your future in the hands of chance—get in touch with a skilled criminal defense attorney right away to take action.
If you are facing domestic violence charges in the Camas, Vancouver, or Ridgefield area, you need effective and reliable criminal defense attorney services right away. Reach out to The Vern McCray Law Firm, PLLC, today by calling (360) 834-6262 to discuss your legal rights and options with an experienced and trusted Washington criminal defense lawyer.
