You may feel like your life had been on track for some time, and you may have envisioned many dreams for yourself and your family. However, all of those positive thoughts may have come crashing down after you found yourself accused of domestic abuse. At first, you may have been taken aback by the claims and felt assured that there was no real case against you. Unfortunately, the situation may have become all too real when authorities brought formal charges.
As with any type of criminal accusation, it is important for you to understand the exact charges for domestic violence you face. Different types of domestic abuse exist, and by understanding exactly of what you stand accused, you may have a greater chance of creating and presenting a meaningful defense.
Variations of domestic abuse
Though you may have never laid a violent hand on your spouse, physical violence is not always necessary for charges of abuse to come about. Physical abuse is certainly the most heard-of category of domestic violence, but your case could involve one of the following as well:
- Psychological abuse: This type of abuse involves any behavior that causes another person to feel fearful. For instance, an individual may claim that you threatened him or her, did not allow interpersonal relationships, committed emotional blackmail, or kept the person from leaving your house.
- Emotional abuse: Emotional abuse may seem similar to psychological abuse, but this category typically involves making a person feel worthless rather than fearful. A person may claim that you constantly insulted, belittled, criticized or humiliated him or her.
- Financial abuse: Typically, individuals who carry out financial abuse control money in a way that makes it practically impossible for another person to have any sort of financial independence. Some people may use this action to prevent another person from leaving a relationship or to meet other ends.
While some of these forms of abuse may be difficult to prove, a serious case could still come against you.
Defending against allegations
As mentioned, you have the right to defend against any criminal allegation you face. Once you understand the type of domestic violence someone alleges you committed, you may have a better chance of creating a defense that can help you maintain your innocence. Because these cases can prove immensely complex, you may find it in your best interests to enlist the help of a Washington attorney.