Have you been charged with domestic violence in Cleveland, OH, but you know that you are innocent? Facing these types of charges can be scary, especially if it is your first time being involved with the criminal justice system. Thankfully, you have legal options.
The Elkhatib Law Office helps clients in the Cleveland area who have been falsely accused of domestic violence and many other types of crimes, such as drug crimes, theft crimes, and more. Just because you have been charged with a crime does not automatically mean that you are guilty. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime that you are being charged with.
Reach out to us today at (216) 334-3444 to speak to a Cleveland domestic violence lawyer who can help protect your rights. We have years of experience handling all types of criminal cases and can help you put together a solid defense against the accusations you are facing.
How The Elkhatib Law Office Can Help With False Domestic Violence Allegations in Ohio
If you have been falsely accused of domestic violence in Cleveland, Ohio, we can help you by:
- Reviewing the details of your arrest and understanding the specifics of the charges against you
- Interviewing witnesses who can testify to your innocence
- Obtaining evidence, such as photos or video surveillance footage, that can help with your defense
- Filing motions to exclude evidence that was obtained illegally or is irrelevant
- Negotiating with the prosecution to have your charges reduced or dropped
- Going to trial and taking your case to a jury to defend you against false charges
We understand your head is probably spinning with a million questions. You are likely wondering what you will do to defend yourself against these false accusations. Remember that you will be given your day in court to defend yourself, and the Cleveland criminal defense lawyers at The Elkhatib Law Office can help you do just that.
Call our Cleveland domestic violence attorneys for a free consultation.
Overview of Domestic Violence
Ohio law on domestic violence is fairly broad. Generally speaking, domestic violence occurs when a household member threatens or harms another. The question then arises of who is considered a household member? According to the law, a household member may be:
- A spouse or former spouse
- A parent, foster parent, or child
- Household members related by blood or marriage
- Partners who share a child together
- Romantic partners, whether or not they live in the same household
Since the domestic violence laws in Ohio are so broad, many situations could lead to domestic violence charges. Even an argument with a boyfriend or girlfriend could lead to charges if one party says they felt threatened during the argument.
This is why it is crucial to get the help of an experienced lawyer to defend you against false accusations.
Steps to Take if You’ve Been Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence
If you have been falsely accused of domestic violence, we understand that you want to clear your name as soon as possible. After all, a domestic violence conviction can affect you for years to come. It may affect your ability to obtain employment, housing, or other necessities of life. If you are being falsely accused, here are the steps you should follow:
Don’t Resist Arrest
Many people who are falsely accused make the mistake of resisting an arrest because they are sure of their innocence. However, resisting arrest can lead to additional criminal charges. It could even get you physically hurt in some cases. So, peacefully comply with the police and know that you can fight your charges in court.
Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
Refrain from making any statements to the police after your arrest. Exercise your right to remain silent because anything that you say could be used against you at trial.
Avoid Contact With the Alleged Victim
After your arrest, do not have any contact with the alleged victim from the accident. In many cases, a restraining order may be in place anyway. Plus, things could get heated, and another incident could occur. To avoid facing any additional charges or giving the prosecution any additional evidence, do not visit or talk to the alleged victim.
Talk With a Lawyer
You have a right to have a lawyer present during any questioning, and you should contact an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. Your lawyer can work with the prosecution to understand the details of your charges and help you put together a strong defense.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Cleveland Domestic Violence Lawyer
If you have been falsely accused of domestic violence, do not wait to get help. The experienced team at The Elkhatib Law Office can investigate the details of your charges and help defend you against these allegations. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Cleveland domestic violence attorney.