What Should I Do If My Ex Falsely Accuses Me of Hurting a Child?

 Posted on September 14, 2020 in Criminal Defense

Breakups and divorce can sometimes lead people to make choices they would never make otherwise. Some individuals even fabricate stories of child abuse or neglect in order to “get back” at their former partner. Unfortunately, even if an accusation of child abuse is completely unfounded, the allegation can have dramatic effects on the wrongfully accused. He or she may be investigated by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services or even arrested and charged with a criminal offense. If you or a loved one has been accused of causing injury to a child, it is crucial that you take swift action to protect your rights.

Responding to Allegations of Child Abuse

Understandably, being accused of a crime you did not commit can be infuriating. However, it is important to remain calm and avoid taking actions that could be used against you in any criminal proceedings. Do not confront your accuser in any way. If you have been served with a protective order or restraining order, comply with the provisions contained in the order. You may be required to surrender your firearms and/or concealed carry permit, stay away from the alleged victim’s school, or even temporarily move out of your own home. Even if the grounds for the protective order are fraudulent, you should comply with these requirements. By doing so, you show the court that you are a law-abiding citizen. Even more importantly, violating the terms of the protective order can result in additional criminal charges which will make your situation even worse.
Injury to a child is a felony offense in Texas. If you are accused of causing bodily injury or mental impairment to your child or any other child through reckless actions or inaction, you could face up to two years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000. If the alleged injury was intentional, the maximum punishment for causing injury to a child is 10 years in prison and $10,000 in fines. If a serious bodily injury or mental impairment was allegedly caused, the crime is a first-degree felony, which is punishable by life in prison. As you can see, the punishments for harming a child in Texas are severe. This is why it is critical for you to obtain legal support from an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. Do not respond to police questioning without your lawyer present. You could say or do something incriminating that is later used against you.

Contact a Fort Worth Child Abuse Defense Lawyer

Any offenses against children carry harsh criminal penalties that have the potential to change the rest of your life. If you have been accused of abusing or otherwise causing injury to a child, contact The Crowder Law Firm, P.C. The sooner you contact our team of experienced legal professionals, the sooner we can start gathering evidence and building a resilient defense. Attorney Darlina Crowder has obtained over 200 not guilty verdicts and acquittals in her accomplished career. Schedule your free, confidential consultation with one of our skilled Dallas criminal defense attorneys by calling our office today at 214-544-0061.

Source:
https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/FA/htm/FA.261.htm