Domestic Violence: How the Tables Can Be Stacked Against You

September 22, 2023

Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence? We'll Fight to Clear Your Name.

Domestic vi olence is a disturbing epidemic affecting over 10 million adults each year in the United States. However, the complex laws surrounding domestic crimes and abuse mean the justice system is often stacked against accused person. At Goolsby Law, our team of battle-tested attorneys has seen first-hand how confusing and demoralizing the legal system can be for individuals charges with domestic violence. We are here to help you understand your rights and guide you toward justice.

What is Domestic Violence?

In Domestic violence cases there may be allegations of a pattern of abusive behaviors used by one partner to exert power and control over another in an intimate relationship. While physical abuse may come to mind first, domestic violence charges can take many insidious forms.

Physical Abuse

These allegations may include physical acts intended to hurt, intimidate or control a partner such as:
  • Hitting, slapping, punching, kicking
  • Strangling, smothering, burning
  • Pushing, shoving, grabbing, restraint
  • Attacks with weapons
  • Throwing things at victim
  • Destruction of property

Sexual Abuse

These allegations may include forced sex acts or unwanted touching/advances constitute sexual abuse. Key examples include:
  • Rape or attempted rape
  • Pressure or demands for unwanted sex acts
  • Treating partner in a sexually demeaning way
  • Knowingly exposing partner to STDs
  • Controlling access to birth control

Emotional Abuse

These allegations may include emotional abuse aims to undermine a victim's self-worth through words and coercive tactics:
  • Verbal attacks, insults, humiliation
  • Intimidation and threats of harm
  • Possessiveness and extreme jealousy
  • Isolation from friends/family
  • Stalking and harassment
  • Gaslighting and distorting reality

Financial Abuse

These allegations may include economic control is another potent weapon for abusers:
  • Forbidding employment
  • Restricting access to bank accounts
  • Withholding money for necessities
  • Stealing money and credit cards
  • Running up debt in partner's name

Why You Should Fight Domestic Violence Charges

Facing criminal charges related to domestic violence can be frightening and overwhelming. When police arrive, your first instinct may be to admit to certain actions or even plead guilty and get it over with. Do not give in to that urge. Domestic crimes can irrevocably tarnish your record and lead to devastating personal consequences. You should always demand your right to speak with legal counsel and not make statements to law enforcement. 
Here are the critical reasons why you must fight allegations of domestic violence:
  • Avoid a Permanent Criminal Record - Pleading guilty can result in a criminal record that can severely limit job opportunities, eligibility for military service, gun ownership rights, access to student loans and housing, and much more.
  • Prevent Future False Accusations - Those accused of domestic violence can face repeat false allegations from abusive partners. A conviction on your record makes you vulnerable to manipulative accusers. Don't give them that leverage.
  • Maintain Child Custody - Domestic abuse charges can obliterate child custody rights in family court. Don't let a false or exaggerated claim cost you the relationship with your child.
  • Save Your Reputation - Domestic crimes carry a heavy stigma in relationships, social circles, and careers. This label is difficult to overcome. Don't let it overwhelm your future.
  • Regain Your Powe r - Defending yourself against wrongful allegations helps reclaim your dignity and self-respect. Don't become another helpless victim.

With so much at stake, protecting your rights and future means everything. An experienced domestic violence attorney can mean the difference between conviction and vindication.

How to Respond If You Are Accused of Domestic Violence

Finding yourself accused of domestic abuse can be emotionally shattering. While it may seem impossible to know what to do, following these steps will help protect you during this crisis:
  • Remain Silent - Do not try to explain yourself or provide any kind of statement to police. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you. Let your attorney do the talking.
  • Don't Resist Arrest - As difficult as it is, do not physically resist law enforcement, even if you feel completely wrong. Resisting arrest only adds charges and makes your situation exponentially worse.
  • Contact a Lawyer Immediately - Contact a qualified domestic violence defense attorney as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer is critical for disputing these life-changing allegations.
  • Seek Counseling for Any Issues - Demonstrating that you are seeking help for substance abuse, anger problems, or mental health concerns can help mitigate the charges against you.
  • Create Distance from the Accuser - Avoid all contact with the accuser, including phone, email, social media, and in person. Even innocent contact can seem threatening and may subject you to immediate arrest.
  • Document Visible Injuries - If you have any bruises, cuts, or other injuries from the alleged incident, ensure they are photographed and medically documented for evidence.
  • Gather Witnesses - Let your attorney know the names and contact information of any and all potential witnesses who may have direct or circumstantial evidence to help dispute the accusations.

By leaning on the guidance of a seasoned, domestic violence lawyer, you can safely navigate this crisis and build your strongest defense.

Why You Need an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney

When facing accusations as severe as domestic violence, attempting to represent yourself can be exceedingly unwise. The system can be stacked against defendants in domestic crimes cases, and seasoned legal guidance is critical.
Here are the key reasons having a skilled domestic violence attorney like Thom Goolsby of Goolsby Law on your side can mean the difference between conviction and exoneration:
  • We thoroughly investigate the allegations and the accuser's credibility on order to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
  • We determine if the charges have legal standing or if the statute of limitations has expired.
  • We negotiate aggressively with prosecutors to get charges reduced or dismissed prior to a trial whenever possible.
  • We file motions highlighting procedural flaws and work to suppress illegally obtained evidence.
  • We can retain respected expert witnesses who can educate the judge/jury on domestic violence behavioral patterns and contradict allegations.
  • We are fully prepared to mount a vigorous defense and litigate your case through trial if needed.
  • We understand the devastating collateral consequences of domestic violence convictions and will fight relentlessly to preserve your record and rights.

The skilled domestic violence attorneys at Goolsby Law are intimately familiar with the local courts and law enforcement agencies. We have successfully defended countless clients just like you against false abuse allegations and ensured their rights were protected. With us as your counsel, you can finally take a breath and rest assured your case is in good hands.

Let Goolsby Law Help You Beat False Domestic Abuse Charges

If you or someone you care about is currently facing criminal charges related to domestic violence, please call Goolsby Law today at 910-262-7401 or text us at 910-262-7401 to schedule a free, confidential case evaluation.
During this meeting, you will speak with accomplished criminal defense lawyer Thom Goolsby to:
  • Review the accusations against you and the available evidence
  • Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of your specific case
  • Learn about your legal rights and defense options
  • Develop an aggressive legal strategy tailored to fight the charges

Don't wait to act. The sooner we get involved, the better positioned we are to combat these life-altering allegations. With Goolsby Law providing skilled and tenacious representation, you can overcome fear and confusion. Contact us to take the first step toward reclaiming your power and future.

If you or someone close is confronted with criminal charges and contemplating a plea bargain or seeks a trial, don't hesitate to contact Thom Goolsby at the Goolsby Law. He is ready to offer the guidance and representation you need to traverse the complexities inherent within the criminal justice system. You can text him right now at 910-262-7401 .