My ex accused me of domestic battery – now what

False accusations of domestic battery can be tremendously harmful – and if you’re convicted, that record will follow you for the rest of your life. For most people, it makes sense to work with a domestic battery defense attorney who understands the laws and the impact a conviction will have on your day-to-day life.

Did Your Ex Accuse You of Domestic Battery?

My ex accused me of domestic battery – now what?

If that’s why you’re here, don’t panic. Unfortunately, many exes accuse their former significant others of domestic battery during divorce or after a break-up, even when the allegations are completely made-up.

For most people, the safest bet is to get in touch with a domestic battery defense attorney. Don’t try to talk sense into your ex, and don’t tell the police you’re innocent or acted in self-defense – it’s best to remain quiet and only talk to your lawyer.

The court can convict you of domestic battery if you cause bodily harm to any family or household member, or if you make physical contact “of an insulting or provoking nature” with any family or household member. It’s a Class A misdemeanor, but if you have a prior domestic battery conviction, it can become a Class 4 felony. (The penalty if it’s a misdemeanor is up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500, but if it becomes a felony, you’re facing up to 3 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000.)

Aggravated domestic battery has even more serious consequences; you could spend between 3 and 7 years in prison, unless you have a prior aggravated domestic battery conviction. In that case, you could spend up to 14 years in prison.

What to Do if Your Ex Accuses You of Domestic Battery

If your ex accuses you of domestic battery or aggravated domestic battery:

  1. Leave the situation. Don’t make any contact with your ex or your ex’s family until you have spoken with your lawyer.
  2. Call your lawyer. Explain the situation and ask what to do next. If you have kids, let your attorney know so he can come up with a plan of action.
  3. Don’t admit anything to police. In fact, don’t even tell them that it was a mistake or that you’re innocent, no matter how much they ask. Tell them you want your attorney with you during questioning (but do it politely – don’t get an attitude).
  4. Don’t panic. If you’re working with a domestic battery defense attorney you can trust, he’ll get you the best possible outcome. (Check out what our clients are saying here.)

Do You Need to Talk to a Lawyer After Your Ex Accused You of Domestic Battery?

If your ex accused you of domestic battery, whether or not it’s true, call us right away at 847-920-4540 for a free domestic battery case review. We’ll get to work developing a defense strategy so you get the best outcome possible in your case.