When someone makes a false accusation against you, especially something as serious as child abuse, it is important to prove your innocence. An accusation like this can be a permanent detriment in your life if it is not disproven. You could lose custody of your child, lose visitation rights, and have your reputation tarnished. Seeking help from a Bergen County, New Jersey criminal defense lawyer is the first step in discrediting these false allegations.
What is Child Abuse?
Child abuse is a crime that includes the physical, mental, and sexual abuse of a child along with neglect, abandonment, and exploitation. It is a broad definition of a very serious crime. Child abuse can result in lasting trauma, both physically and mentally, along with injury or even death of the child. It is a serious matter which is why every accusation is investigated thoroughly.
What Do I Do After Being Accused of It?
After being accused of such a crime, there are many actions that can be taken to help the investigation reveal the truth.
First, obtain a lawyer. An experienced attorney will be able to help with the legal proceedings and explain exactly what the process will be like. They will help you prepare so you can fight back and be acquitted.
You will want to cooperate with the investigation. Every accusation is taken seriously, so there will be a quite intrusive dive into your history and your relationship with your child. Comply with all requests from the judge or authorities, within reason. It is important to show them that you have nothing to hide and are willing to help them find any information they may be looking for. Your cooperation will also help move the investigation along efficiently.
Start working with your lawyer to procure evidence that can be used to help disprove their story and clear your name. Since the accusation is false, any evidence the opposing party provides the court will be falsified information. If you are able to obtain positive character witness statements to be read in court it will be influential in showing the judge who you really are. Statements from friends, family, neighbors, teachers, and coaches about your character, your relationship with your child, and your child’s behavior are all evidence that can greatly benefit your case.
Your lawyer will be your biggest advocate during the difficult and lengthy process. They will be able to explain everything to you, take care of details, and represent you in court if needed. They will use their experience to predict the arguments of the opposing side and be ready to come to your defense. They can poke holes in the opposing party’s argument and spot inconsistencies in stories and testimony that may lead to exposing the truth of your innocence.