Divorce is inherently messy, and couples who are splitting up often engage in unhealthy interactions with one another. Both sides may hurl insults and recriminations at each other in their hurt and anger.
While that might not be the best way to handle your feelings about a disintegrating relationship or marriage, they are still just words, no matter how deeply they may cut.
What happens if conflicts escalate?
Either or both spouses could face charges of domestic violence if those angry words turn into physical aggression. That’s typically the trigger for the police to get involved, and the courts can issue restraining orders against the parties.
A more insidious twist
Some people try to game the system in an acrimonious divorce, however. They can allege that domestic violence took place when it did not. They may even go so far as to cause visible injuries to themselves before calling the police and pressing false charges.
This is an extremely troubling trend, and law enforcement officials are often bound by duty to arrest the alleged offender if the complainant has visible bruises or other “evidence” of abuse.
Defend against false accusations immediately
Domestic violence charges derail lives when those allegations are untrue. They can affect employment, civil rights and even parental and custody rights if children are involved in the divorce. It is imperative to act quickly and rebut these accusations by building a staunch defense to the charges.
If you face this or a similar situation, know what to do. Verbally invoke your Constitutional right to remain silent until you have crafted an effective defense strategy to your charges.