What to Do If You Are Accused of Domestic Violence in Missouri
Being accused of domestic violence is terrifying. Even if the accusation is exaggerated or false, the consequences begin immediately: you may be arrested on the spot, removed from your home under an emergency order, and face criminal charges that could result in jail time and a permanent record.
What you do in the first hours and days after an accusation matters enormously. Here is what you need to know.
Do Not Contact the Accuser
This is the most important rule. If there is a no-contact order or order of protection in place, any contact, even a text message saying “I’m sorry,” is a separate criminal offense. Even if there is no formal order yet, contacting the accuser can be used against you and may trigger one. Let your attorney handle all communication.
Do Not Talk to Police Without a Lawyer
You have the right to remain silent. Use it. Police officers are trained to gather statements that can be used against you. Anything you say, even if you think it helps your case, can be taken out of context or used to build the prosecution’s theory. Politely decline to answer questions and ask for an attorney.
Document Everything
Write down everything you remember about the incident as soon as possible, while details are fresh. Save text messages, voicemails, emails, and social media communications. If there are witnesses, note their names and contact information. If you have injuries of your own, photograph them. This information can be critical to your defense.
Understand the Consequences
A domestic violence conviction in Missouri carries jail or prison time depending on the degree, a permanent criminal record, loss of firearm rights under both Missouri and federal law, potential impact on child custody and visitation, and collateral consequences for employment and housing. Because the stakes are so high, aggressive defense is essential from the beginning.
Common Defense Strategies
Domestic violence cases frequently involve he-said, she-said accounts with limited independent evidence. Defense strategies may include demonstrating inconsistencies in the accuser’s account, presenting evidence of self-defense, showing that the accuser has a motive to fabricate (such as gaining leverage in a custody dispute), and challenging the prosecution’s evidence and witness credibility.
If you have been accused of domestic violence, call (314) 708-1720 immediately. Lee Law Firm provides a confidential, aggressive defense.