What to Do When You Have Been Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence

Facing false accusations of domestic violence in McKinney, Texas, can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. You may suddenly find yourself the subject of a criminal investigation, under a protective order, or even arrested without warning. 

In McKinney, TX, false accusations can arise from misunderstandings, heated breakups, custody disputes, or even deliberate attempts to gain leverage in divorce or family court. Whatever the cause, a domestic violence charge—especially if convicted—can have lasting consequences.

If this has happened to you, it’s essential to understand your rights and take immediate steps to protect yourself. Texas Defense Firm is here to help you clear your name and safeguard your future. Call 972-369-0577 today for a free consultation with a McKinney domestic violence lawyer.

Why Choose Texas Defense Firm for Help With a False Domestic Violence Accusation in McKinney, TX?

Why Choose Texas Defense Firm for Help With a False Domestic Violence Accusation in McKinney, TX?

At Texas Defense Firm, we believe in a client-centered approach, offering personalized attention and tailored legal strategies to meet the unique needs of each individual. We understand the emotional toll false accusations can take, and we are dedicated to providing compassionate yet aggressive representation. 

Here’s what sets our McKinney criminal defense attorneys apart:

  • 200+ years of combined experience
  • Local knowledge of McKinney courts and procedures
  • Thorough case investigations to uncover the truth
  • Strategic negotiations and aggressive trial advocacy
  • Commitment to preserving your rights and reputation

Our goal is not just to defend your case, but to restore your peace of mind and protect your future from the shadow of unproven claims. We work tirelessly to ensure our clients are treated fairly and lawfully throughout the process. Contact us today for a confidential consultation with a McKinney domestic violence attorney.

Understanding Domestic Violence Allegations in Texas

It is essential to understand that you can be arrested based solely on an allegation of violence, without requiring physical evidence or witness testimony. Under Texas law, domestic violence (legally referred to as “family violence“) involves acts of bodily harm, threats, or abuse toward family or household members

These include:

  • Current or former spouses
  • Romantic or dating partners
  • Parents of a shared child
  • Blood or adoptive relatives
  • Household members, including roommates

In many cases, the alleged victim cannot simply “drop the charges,” as prosecutors may proceed regardless of their wishes. This is particularly true where the investigating officers documented any physical injury, children are involved, or if the defendant has a history of violence or aggression.

Steps to Take After a False Domestic Violence Allegation

If you are falsely accused, your actions in the early stages can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Follow these steps to protect yourself and your rights:

  1. Do not contact the accuser: Any attempt to reach out could be used against you or violate a protective order
  2. Avoid discussing the case: Don’t talk to police or anyone else about the accusations without legal counsel
  3. Preserve evidence: Save texts, emails, voicemails, and social media messages that may support your version of events
  4. Identify witnesses: Make a list of people who can confirm your whereabouts or provide relevant context

As soon as you can, consult our McKinney criminal defense lawyers to help you understand your charges and navigate the legal system. The sooner you have legal representation, the better your chances of protecting your rights.

Potential Consequences of a Domestic Violence Charge in McKinney

Even a misdemeanor domestic violence charge comes with consequences that can impact your life profoundly. 

Potential penalties include:

  • Up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine (Class A misdemeanor)
  • 2 to 10 years in prison for a third-degree felony
  • 2 to 20 years for a second-degree felony (e.g., repeat offenses or serious injuries)
  • Loss of firearm rights
  • Restrictions on child custody or visitation
  • A permanent criminal record

In Texas, domestic violence convictions also carry a social stigma and can affect your employment, housing, and community standing. Our McKinney domestic violence attorneys can help you understand how these potential consequences may apply to you. 

Defenses to False Domestic Violence Accusations

Every case is unique, but several defenses may apply when you’ve been falsely accused:

  • No physical evidence: Lack of injuries or forensic support
  • Alibi: You were not present at the time of the alleged incident
  • Self-defense: You were attacked first and acted reasonably to protect yourself
  • Ulterior motives: The accuser may have a reason to fabricate claims (e.g., custody battle)
  • Inconsistencies: Contradictions in the accuser’s story can raise doubt

Our McKinney criminal defense lawyers can carefully analyze the prosecution’s case, scrutinize their evidence, and work to present a strong defense that protects your rights.

Protective Orders in Domestic Violence Cases

In many cases, defendants must also deal with the automatic issuance of a protective order after arrest for an offense involving family violence. Even if you’re never convicted, a temporary or emergency protective order can limit your freedoms.

This can include:

  • Restricting access to your own home
  • Preventing contact with your children
  • Impacting employment if you carry a firearm

Violating any protective order is a separate criminal offense. We help our clients navigate these restrictions, seek modifications where possible, and help you remain compliant.

Understanding what lies ahead can help you prepare and make sound decisions throughout. 

The process can include:

  • Arrest and booking: You may be detained and processed at the police station or Collin County Jail
  • Protective order hearing: Often happens within days of the accusation
  • Arraignment: You’ll be formally charged and enter a plea
  • Pretrial phase: We gather evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and file motions
  • Trial (if necessary): If a resolution isn’t reached, your case may go to court

We guide our clients through every stage with transparency, clarity, and aggressive advocacy.

Social Media Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Defense

In today’s digital world, your social media presence can become part of the prosecution’s case. 

Many defendants unknowingly harm their own credibility by:

  • Posting about the incident, even vaguely
  • Sharing memes or jokes about domestic violence
  • Communicating indirectly with the accuser online
  • Being tagged in questionable posts by friends

We advise clients to temporarily deactivate accounts or heavily restrict privacy settings. A single post can create significant problems in court, even if you think it seems harmless.

Call Our McKinney Domestic Violence Attorneys Today for a Confidential Consultation

A false accusation of domestic violence is more than a misunderstanding — it’s a threat to your freedom and your future. Texas Defense Firm has the skills and experience to counter weak charges, expose false claims, and help you build a strong defense.

Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation with a McKinney domestic violence lawyer. Let us stand by you and fight for your rights and your reputation.