Domestic relationships can be difficult. There aren't many interactions where emotions run so high, and when partners or former partners disagree, violence can occur. Domestic violence is serious, and PA laws don't take the offense lightly. Because this criminal behavior carries such significant consequences, it's also a crime to make false domestic violence accusations.

False domestic violence claims happen more often than some might realize. Recently, the Meadeville Tribute reported on a case where a woman told police that her boyfriend strangled her. The accused was arrested and initially charged with a felony crime, but upon further investigation, the authorities determined the accusations had been made up. Once this determination was made, the charges against the boyfriend were dropped, and the woman was then charged with falsification to a law enforcement officer.

What To Do if You're Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence in PA

If you're falsely accused of domestic violence, you need to contact a defense attorney right away. Even when you've done nothing wrong, there's too much at stake to try and go it alone. Accusers who've already lied about one instance of abuse aren't likely to stop lying once they've committed to that path. If and when the truth becomes your word against theirs, you may have a hard time proving your innocence to the authorities without professional legal guidance.

You must abide by any protection order against you and work with your attorney to get the order vacated. Don't reach out to your accuser to clear things up; that would be a violation of the protection order. Even though a protection order isn't a criminal process, violating these orders can result in a criminal arrest.

Penalties for Making False Domestic Violence Accusations

When someone makes false domestic violence accusations, they can be charged with falsification to a law enforcement officer pursuant to 18 Pa. C.S. Section 4906. If this person also lies under oath while testifying against the accused for the domestic violence accusations, they could also be charged with perjury under 18 Pa. C.S. Section 4902. Jail time and fines can be imposed for making false accusations.

Domestic violence is serious, and resources need to be reserved for true victims. It's also important innocent parties don't get caught up in domestic violence investigations. Even when the charges are later dropped, someone falsely accused is still going to experience significant inconvenience.

When to Talk to a Defense Lawyer

If you're accused of domestic violence, you need to speak to a PA criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Our dedicated Criminal Defense Team at the LLF Law Firm has helped countless individuals regain control of their life after false accusations were made against them. To learn more, call 888-535-3686 today, or contact us online.