Child abuse cases are undoubtedly disheartening and shattering. Such scenarios not only affect the kids involved but the parents, relatives, and other loved ones. The severity of these cases makes it crucial to seek legal justice. However, every story has two sides.
Sometimes, in cases involving separation and child custody, a parent might falsely accuse the other parent or someone close of child molestation. It particularly happens during the high-conflict custody battles. The flawed strategy of false accusations makes it easier for the parent to win the case as the judge or jury will never provide child custody to a criminal.
Yes! The judges do practice utmost caution in this type of case because their decision will significantly impact the life of an innocent child. They understand that false accusations are often made to influence the case’s decision. This provides the defendant (the person accused of conducting a criminal act) an opportunity to prove their innocence. So, the defendant must use this opportunity wisely. Here’s how!
Comply With The Investigation
Cases involving abuse or violence are investigated thoroughly before making any visitation or custody decision. Needless to say, an effective investigation is often time-consuming and burdensome, especially for the kids. To ease the investigation process, you must cooperate with the authorities as much as possible.
Help them gather evidence that will help prove your innocence. It may include statements from family members, neighbors, co-workers, or friends. However, please do not go overboard with it. It might add to the suspicion.
Also, stay as calm as possible and think well before you speak. Any statement you may make in front of the investigators or police can be used against you. Therefore, you must frame your answers wisely or simply not say anything at all. It would also be wise to contact your lawyer before you give any statement to the investigators.
Hire A Lawyer
Hiring a lawyer in false allegation cases is a must. Know that the law provides equal opportunity to the plaintiff and defendant to present their case. It ensures that justice is served. These types of farcical allegations may damage your self-esteem. But, you need to learn how to cope with it and hire a reliable sex crimes trial lawyer to effectively present your side of the story in the courtroom.
A lawyer understands how these types of cases work; thereby helping formulate a defense strategy to help you win the case. They can also help you frame your answers during the trail, assist you in staying calm and facilitate the overall trail procedure.
Note: In case you are getting arrested for allegations, you must invoke your right to get a lawyer immediately. Do not provide any statement to the police in the absence of your lawyer. In the meantime, you can stay silent.
Reach Out To The Therapist
Even if your case is resolved in your favor, the mental and emotional anguish you experienced during the trials is extreme. It is important that you seek assistance from counselors or therapists during as well as after the case. They can help ease your pain and recommend necessary treatments to relieve the stress and regain confidence within.
Know that these types of allegations tend to spread fast and affect a person’s reputation. It can trigger anxiety, depression, or any other mental disorder which can further affect your case. So, reaching out for immediate help is a must. Explain your feelings honestly to the therapist so that they can guide you and help you heal.
Rebuilding Your Relationship With Child
Frequent meetings with lawyers, investigators, and courtroom visits are likely to influence your relationship with your child. Stating the obvious, kids are not mature enough to understand all these things and easily get overwhelmed. So, you need to make slow and steady efforts to rebuild your relationship.
It seems necessary; you can take your child to a therapist to help understand their mindset. You can also go out, play games, watch movies, and be present for them in general. In addition to this, you must encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings. It will help you both understand each other better and improve your bond.
A Word From Verywell
Getting falsely accused of your child’s abuse or harassment is a traumatic experience and will likely affect your life tremendously. However, you must not lose hope; instead, consult a lawyer and take appropriate steps to come out clean from the allegations. Afterward, you should seek assistance to get over the mental and emotional trauma while rebuilding your relationship with your kid.
