Domestic violence charges are serious. Whether you believe you have violated the law or not, you must comport yourself properly to minimize your chances of severe consequences from the court.
Here are three tips to help you in the timeframe immediately after you find yourself accused of domestic violence.
1. Follow all court orders
Courts take allegations of domestic violence seriously. If a judge issues a temporary or permanent order of protection, you must abide by it. Failing to do so could result in more penalties. In addition to your spouse or partner, other family members can appear on court-issued orders of protection. This can include your own children. Though difficult, you must follow the orders until you plead your case in court.
2. Meet your financial obligations
Although you may face orders preventing you from seeing your children, you must continue to pay child support. Additionally, you should pay your other bills and retain your job to display to the court that you are an upstanding member of your community.
3. Appear in court
Once the court sets a date for your appearance, you need to show up. Failing to appear could result in the judge automatically ruling against you. This might mean that a judge signs a long-lasting order of protection against you. Be sure to go to court dressed appropriately and on time.
Though you may feel that you have done nothing illegal, you must still respect the court’s authority as you navigate through this process. Remember to remain calm and stay out of trouble while you await your day in front of a judge.
