While retaining the services of a domestic violence lawyer is a good start in presenting a defense against allegations, there's a lot more you'll need to do than just give your case to an attorney. Follow these 5 tips as you try to navigate your situation.
Listen Closely to Counsel
A domestic violence lawyer is going to tell you a lot of things. You're paying for the counsel, so make sure you're listening to it. If necessary, take notes so you'll remember the key points. When advice is given, follow it even if your impulse is to do otherwise.
Minimize Contact with Accusers
Understandably, allegations often arise from folks that a defendant can't completely unplug from. There's a big difference, though, between being practical in your communication and digging deeper into the situation. If you're dealing with an ex-partner, for example, who's regularly communicating with you, make it clear that you're not going to talk about any allegations if they bring them up.
Save Everything
Texting and messaging apps are the go-to way for many people these days to express their anger. Any texts you get should be locked and saved. Don't make a point of being selective because the courts frown on this sort of thing. If there are seemingly damning remarks on your end, don't delete them. Courts understand that things can get heated, and a domestic violence defense lawyer will try to present your concerns in the best light.
Observe All Court Orders
Nothing worries a domestic violence attorney quite as much as a client who can't observe a court order. If a protection from abuse order has been entered against you, for example, understand its terms and do your very best to obey it. Should an accuser take steps that put you in a questionable position, take notes about when it happened and what transpired. Always document all such interactions, as these can be presented as evidence that the party that sought the order isn't sincere.
Ask for Police Help
If you need to interact with an accuser, it's best to ask the court to have a police officer present during the interactions. For example, a parent accused of domestic violence might request that the police assist in observing visitation times. This will reduce the risk that you'll be falsely accused of wrongdoing. Likewise, the police officer represents an additional witness who can be called if there's a blow-up.
To learn more, contact a domestic violence attorney.
