Have you been falsely accused of and arrested for domestic violence in Birmingham, AL? A conviction could lead to jail time, hefty fines, a permanent criminal record, and life-altering consequences.
The experienced criminal defense attorneys at Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. are here to help protect your rights, name, and reputation. With over 100 years of combined legal experience, our Birmingham domestic violence lawyers have defended countless clients across Alabama.
Contact our Birmingham, Alabama, law office today at (205) 930-9800 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your legal options.
How Our Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. Can Help If You’ve Been Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence
The criminal justice system treats domestic violence cases with urgency, often resulting in quick arrests and restraining orders, even when the facts are unclear. At Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C., we understand the seriousness of domestic violence accusations and can try to alleviate the stress they cause.
You can trust our Birmingham domestic violence attorneys to:
- Conduct an independent investigation into the incident
- Interview witnesses and collect exculpatory evidence
- Challenge protective or no-contact orders
- Communicate with prosecutors to seek case dismissal or reduction
- Aggressively represent you at every stage of your case
If the claims against you are exaggerated or false, our team is ready to protect your rights and help you pursue the best possible outcome. When you work with us, you gain an experienced legal team with the resources and skills to protect you from false DV claims.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our Birmingham criminal defense lawyers.
What to Do if You’re Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence in Birmingham
Domestic violence accusations can arise from misunderstandings, heated arguments, or even deceitful statements. Alabama law enforcement often side with accusers and make arrests quickly, sometimes with limited evidence.
If you’ve been falsely accused, it’s critical to take the following steps to protect your rights and future:
Do Not Contact the Accuser
You may want to resolve the issue between you and the alleged victim personally. But speaking with your accuser can be perceived as intimidation or harassment.
Such contact could lead to additional charges and further complicate your defense. Avoid any form of contact, whether in person, by phone, or on social media.
Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
You are under no obligation to speak with law enforcement without an attorney. Politely inform officers that you are invoking your right to counsel, and contact a Birmingham criminal defense attorney immediately before communicating further with police officers.
Gather Evidence
While your attorney will handle most of the investigation, you can assist by:
- Making a list of potential witnesses
- Collecting phone records, texts, emails, or social media messages
- Identifying any video surveillance or photos that could support your case
- Writing down your version of events in detail while it’s fresh in your mind
Your attorney may be able to use this evidence to show that the accusations against you are exaggerated or false.
Overview of Alabama Domestic Violence Charges
In Alabama, domestic violence refers to violent or threatening behaviors directed at a family or household member, such as:
- Spouses and ex-spouses
- Partners with whom you share a child
- Current or former dating partners
- Parents, children, or other relatives
Alabama has a range of domestic violence charges, depending on the facts and severity of the alleged abuse.
The most common are:
- Domestic Violence, Third Degree: Typically a misdemeanor involving harassment, criminal coercion, or assault
- Domestic Violence, Second Degree: A felony charge that may include aggravated assault or violation of a protection order
- Domestic Violence, First Degree: The most serious charge, involving severe injuries or the use of a deadly weapon
Other related charges may include stalking, menacing, reckless endangerment, or interference with emergency calls.
Penalties for Domestic Violence in Birmingham
The consequences of a domestic violence conviction vary based on the degree of the offense and your criminal history.
However, penalties may include:
- Jail or prison time
- Hefty fines and court fees
- Protective orders restricting your contact with the alleged victim(s)
- Loss of rights related to owning firearms, obtaining certain jobs, or maintaining child custody.
Misdemeanor charges typically carry up to one year in jail, while felony convictions can lead to much longer prison terms.
Defenses to Domestic Violence Charges
At Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C., we understand that domestic violence charges are often based on incomplete investigations and he-said, she-said accusations. We have extensive experience defending clients against DV charges.
We may use one or more of the following defense strategies in your case:
- Proving mistaken identity or lack of intent
- Demonstrating self-defense or mutual confrontation
- Highlighting inconsistencies in the accuser’s story
- Disputing the reliability of the evidence
- Showing that the prosecution can’t prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
No matter how severe the allegations, we’re ready to stand by your side and fight to clear your name. Call us today to schedule a free consultation.
Contact Our Birmingham Domestic Violence Lawyers for a Free Consultation
False or exaggerated domestic violence allegations can destroy your life. You have the right to defend yourself.
At Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C., we have decades of courtroom experience and a strong track record of protecting the rights of the accused in Birmingham and across Alabama.
Call our office today or reach out online to schedule your free consultation with a Birmingham domestic violence lawyer. We’ll help you understand your rights and begin building a strong defense.