How Do I Defend Against a False Allegation of Child Abuse?

Child abuse is taken seriously in all states. It consists of neglect, abandonment, physical abuse, sexual abuse, exploitation, and any actions that intend to harm the well-being of the child. When someone reports abuse out of concern for the child, the report is being made in good faith. This means that the person who provided the information did so without any malicious intent. However, reports can be made with bad faith as well. A report made in bad faith would be when someone purposefully lies, alleging child abuse and intending to harm the accused parent. This type of accusation could happen to anyone, especially during a high-conflict custody battle. If a false claim is made against you it is imperative to have a Mercer County Criminal Defense Lawyer on your side.

How to Respond to an Accusation of Child Abuse

If a false claim is made against you, you will want to clear your name as soon as possible. Some actions can be taken immediately to begin the process of dispelling rumors.

It’s important to be cooperative throughout the investigation. An accusation of this nature is always taken seriously, which means that a thorough investigation will take place. Comply with all reasonable asks from the judge and/or authorities to show that you have nothing to hide and allow for a more efficient inspection.

Work with your lawyer to collect evidence that bolsters your case. Obtain statements from people that have seen you and your family interact the most. Positive character witness statements from friends, family, neighbors, and teachers could change a judge or jury’s opinion. The opposing side’s lack of evidence will add to your evidence. Since there was no abuse there will be no medical records or eyewitnesses. Any made-up story is bound to have holes in it. With the right lawyer pointing out inconsistencies, insufficient evidence, and witness biases, there is an opportunity to discredit their evidence and disprove their case.

You should be willing and ready to do whatever it takes to prove your innocence. This may include testifying in court. Be prepared to tell the truth and be both honest and consistent.

How Do I Disprove a False Accusation?

Remember that you are innocent, so your accuser will likely have insufficient evidence against you. There are many ways to disprove a false accusation, including the following:

• Focus on weakening your accuser’s credibility: Look for motive. Is there something to gain by labeling you as an abuser? Is it possible that someone coached the accuser on what to say? Find and use any relevant text messages, social media posts, and witness testimony to diminish their credibility.
• Boost your credibility: Get positive witness testimony from friends and family. Offer to take a lie detector test and a psychological evaluation. Find ways to enhance the argument that you are not an abuser.
• Focus on their evidence against you: There will more than likely be insufficient evidence against you, as the claim itself is a lie. Focus on inconsistencies in witness testimony. Your lawyer can poke holes in the opposing side’s story including contradictions or biases.