Being falsely accused of domestic violence can feel like your entire life has changed in a matter of hours. You might be facing criminal charges, a protective order, or being forced to leave your home.
This can all happen before you have had the chance to tell your side of the story.
False accusations do happen, especially during divorces, child custody disputes, and emotionally charged breakups. While every domestic violence allegation deserves to be taken seriously, an accusation is not a conviction.
If you have been falsely accused of domestic violence in Wyoming, here is what to do first.
False Domestic Violence Allegations Do Occur
While many allegations are legitimate, some can happen from misunderstandings, retaliation, or attempts to gain an advantage during divorce or custody proceedings. No matter the reason, the consequences can be life-changing.
Police responding to a domestic disturbance have limited information. They must also make quick decisions.
Even if the person accusing you changes their story or says they no longer want to move forward, the case may continue. Once charges are filed, the prosecutor, not the alleged victim, decides whether to proceed.
What You’re Facing Under Wyoming Law
If you’re accused of domestic violence in Wyoming, you could face criminal charges, a protective order, and restrictions that affect your home, family, and daily life.
Depending on the circumstances, the charges may range from misdemeanors to serious felonies.
Domestic violence allegations in Wyoming may involve offenses such as battery, assault, strangulation, or other crimes committed against a household member. This can include:
- Physical violence
- Threats
- Conduct that places someone in fear of imminent harm
- Other abusive behavior involving a household member
If you have been served with a temporary protection order after the accusation, you might be required to leave your home. In these cases, you may have to avoid contact with the alleged victim. It can temporarily affect child custody and require you to surrender firearms.
As unfair as it may feel, you need to follow every court order. Violating one can result in additional criminal charges and make your defense much more difficult.
What You Should Do Right Away
If you’ve been falsely accused of domestic violence in Wyoming, the first few days are important. The decisions you make now can affect both your criminal case and your future. You want to start by taking these important steps:
- Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately: Make sure to get legal advice before speaking with police or investigators whenever possible.
- Do not contact the accuser: Remember that even a text message could be interpreted as harassment or a violation of a protection order.
- Comply with every court order: Always follow the rules. This can protect your credibility and help avoid additional charges.
- Preserve evidence: Save text messages, emails, photos, voicemails, and social media conversations. Identify witnesses who may support your version of events.
- Stay off social media: Anything you post could become evidence in court.
- Write down everything you remember: Document the events while they’re fresh in your mind and share your notes only with your attorney.
There May Be Strong Defenses Available
Being accused of domestic violence does not automatically mean you will be convicted. Depending on the situation, there may be several legal defenses available.
With help from an attorney, you may be able to show that the accusation was motivated by a divorce, custody dispute, or another personal conflict. Any inconsistencies in the alleged victim’s statements, missing evidence, or witness testimony could weaken the prosecution’s case.
If you acted to protect yourself, self-defense may apply under Wyoming law.
Remember, prosecutors must prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. In many domestic violence cases, credibility and evidence are especially important.
Talk to a Wyoming Domestic Violence Defense Attorney Today
If you have been falsely accused of domestic violence in Wyoming, you need to act right away. The decisions you make in the hours and days after an accusation can have a lasting impact on your case.
Whether you’re facing misdemeanor or felony domestic violence charges, Just Criminal Law can assist. Contact our firm today to discuss your case and learn how we can help protect your freedom, your reputation, and your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be arrested if the alleged victim doesn’t want to press charges?
Yes. Wyoming law allows officers to make an arrest based on probable cause. Once charges are filed, the prosecutor decides whether the case moves forward, not the alleged victim.
Can I be forced to leave my own home?
Yes. A temporary protection order may require you to leave a shared residence and prohibit contact with the other party before you have the opportunity to appear in court.
What should I do if I’ve been falsely accused of domestic violence in Wyoming?
Contact an experienced Wyoming criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. You want to avoid contacting the accuser. Along with that, comply with all court orders, preserve any evidence that supports your case, and allow your lawyer to guide you through the legal process.
