Protect yourself from false imprisonment by knowing your rights, documenting evidence, and consulting with an attorney. The free StatuteFINDER app can help you understand relevant laws and build your defense. (Not legal advice)

As of September 28, 2025.

What to do when you’re falsely accused of domestic violence? Free legal resources guide (2025)

Introduction

It can be frightening and upsetting to be accused of a domestic violence crime you did not commit. The reason this happens may be because evidence was not handled properly and misidentified the perpetrator, being in the wrong place at the wrong time, or false statements were given to the police. All of a sudden, your freedom, reputation, and future are all on the line.

Don't be alarmed! If this ever occurs to you, here's what you should know and do.

1. Do Not Confront Anyone and Keep Calm

When you know you are not guilty, instinctively you become defensive and deny any allegations of your involvement in the crime, but attempting to "clear it up" or arguing with the accuser could make the situation more complicated. Allow the appropriate legal procedures to convey your actions.

2. Get a Lawyer Immediately

Given that anything you say could be used against you in court, if you misspeak, your defense attorney will help you through this stressful period. Also, take the domestic violence accusation seriously, regardless of how absurd or untrue it is. A defense attorney will:

Assist in defending your rights.
Manage correspondence with law enforcement.

Gather proof that supports your position.

3. Start Gathering Evidence

Jot down everything that comes to mind regarding the circumstance:

Where you were.
At the time, who were you with?
Any messages, receipts, recordings, or images that strengthen your alibi.

Find out if witnesses are willing to validate your story of what happened. Your case will be stronger if you have more documentation. Audio and video recordings can be difference makers.

4. Learn Your Rights with StatuteFINDER

Your best defense against false domestic violence accusations is knowledge. A free smartphone app called StatuteFINDER can assist you in:

Educating yourself on the laws (in your state) that apply to your charges:

Educate yourself on legal definitions of the offense for which you are facing charges.
Recognize your rights when being questioned, arrested, and tried.
Find available resources such as public defenders and legal aid initiatives.

Use StatuteFINDER to stay informed and protect yourself from being exploited if you have been charged or questioned.

5. Don’t Talk Without Legal Advice

Investigators or police may make you provide an explanation "off the record." Avoid that at all costs, even if you are innocent; the statements you make can be misinterpreted. Any time you are in legal trouble, you should always speak to your lawyer first. At the very least, input your situation into StatuteFINDER. (Not legal advice)

6. Follow All Legal Instructions

Do not miss your court date! Go to court when they assign you to do so. Your cooperation in court will only make the process easier and protect you from negative outcomes. For example, if you are asked to submit documentation or turn yourself in, cooperate with the police/court system because good behavior will only benefit your situation.

Final Thought:

It is upsetting to be wrongfully accused, but look on the bright side, you are not in prison yet. Throughout the process, you need to remain informed, protected, and ready with the help of trustworthy resources like StatuteFINDER or by calling your lawyer to receive proper legal assistance.

Whether you're innocent or not, what you do next counts. Be aware of your rights and defend them.

How to Use StatuteFINDER

If you want to learn more about StatuteFINDER or how to use the StatuteFINDER app, click the video below:

Know your domestic violence rights in seconds, use StatuteFINDER.org to find laws (statutes) in all 50 states in the USA.

Guest Author: Brenda Gallello

Brenda Gallello is a passionate law student pursuing her passion in criminal and civil law. She actively participates in debates, volunteers in a political campaign, and aspires to learn more about criminology and psychology.

Works Cited

“How to Defend Yourself against False Accusations | Wilder Law Firm.” Wilder Law Firm, 20 Dec. 2021, wilderfirm.com/how-to-defend-yourself-against-false-accusations/. Accessed 22 June 2025.

“What Are My Legal Options If I’m Falsely Accused of a Crime? | HMW Law.” HMW Law Ohio Trial Attorneys, 7 Apr. 2025, teamhmwwins.com/faqs/what-are-your-legal-options-if-falsely-accused-of-a-crime-in-ohio/. Accessed 22 June 2025.

“What to Do If You Are Charged with a Crime That You Did Not Commit.” Browning & Long PLLC, 23 Nov. 2020, www.browninglonglaw.com/library/how-to-handle-being-falsely-accused-of-a-crime.cfm. Accessed 21 June 2025.