Boston Criminal Lawyer Blog
People make mistakes, and couples fight. When that fighting becomes physical, criminal charges may follow. But what if you were both drinking and things just got a little out of control; she pushed you and you pushed her back. Nobody got hurt, but in her intoxicated state, she called the police. When the officers arrived, she exaggerated the situation, saying you pushed her into the wall and her head has been throbbing ever since. You are arrested and charged with domestic abuse. In the light of day, she regrets what she did…but it’s too late. Or is it?
Record
Create a written record of the night’s events. If police ignored your claims during the arrest, they may not have written an accurate report. With time, even your memory about the situation will begin to fade. Write down what happened as soon as you can. A MA defense attorney can help you protect your rights, reputation and freedom if you’ve been charged with domestic abuse.
Witnesses
If anyone witnessed the incident, or has witnessed past incidents that could corroborate your story – see if they are willing to provide a sworn written statement, or an audio or video recording. Also, if anyone will testify that the alleged victim was drunk the night of the incident, this information can help you challenge his or her credibility.
Text Messages
In today’s world, text messages are an extremely useful piece of evidence in criminal cases. A string of belligerent text messages from the night of the incident can provide unparalleled insight into a person’s thoughts and feelings at a specific moment in time. Social media and email can be just as useful.
Dress to Impress
Conservative, business attire should be worn at all meetings, court hearings, and in any court setting. Tattoos and facial piercings should be covered if possible. Fair or not, it is human nature to judge a book by its cover. When it comes to criminal cases, you want to be judged in the most favorable light possible.
Consult with an Experienced Attorney
Domestic abuse cases are not something you want to attempt to handle on your own. A skilled Boston defense attorney can help you determine how to proceed if you are facing domestic abuse charges. Your attorney will know what questions to ask to position you for the best possible outcome. For example, if the alleged victim lied about the abuse, what motivations did he or she have to lie? Is there any unexplored evidence? What might negatively impact the alleged victim’s credibility?
Affidavit of Non-Prosecution
If the alleged victim lied – and felt badly about it soon after – he or she may decide to drop charges. But alas, in the state of MA, the accuser cannot just drop charges. Once a report is made, remorse isn’t enough to stop the freight train that will follow. If the alleged victim signs an Affidavit of Non-Prosecution, however, a dismissal may be easier to achieve. An Affidavit of Non-Prosecution is a sworn statement from the alleged victim, requesting to stop prosecution.
Altman & Altman, LLP – Top Criminal Defense Law Firm Serving Boston and the Surrounding Areas
If you have been charged with any type of criminal offense, the skilled legal team at Altman & Altman, LLP can help. We have been protecting the rights of individuals charged with crimes for more than 50 years. Our experienced, knowledgeable attorneys will fight tirelessly to keep you out of jail and to keep your record clean. We have an impressive track record of getting clients’ charges reduced, or dismissed entirely. Don’t go through this difficult time alone. Contact Altman & Altman, LLP today for a free and confidential consultation about your case.
