What Can I Do If My Spouse Makes False Accusations?

 Posted on July 13, 2024 in Divorce

Divorce is a trying ordeal that can bring out a mean streak even in pleasant people. Sometimes, that nastiness takes the form of false accusations, where one spouse makes untrue claims about the other spouse to achieve a legal outcome. False allegations are made in up to 35 percent of all divorces involving children, according to some estimates.

This article will discuss what can happen if your spouse makes false accusations against you and what you can do about it. Allegations made during divorce are often serious and can have severe consequences, so protect yourself by contacting an Illinois divorce attorney.

What Happens If I Am Falsely Accused?

False accusations that are made during divorce are typically grave. Common examples include:

• Child or spousal abuse

• Hiding money or other assets

• Alcohol and/or drug abuse

• Child neglect

When spouses make such accusations, they do so because they know it can cause harm and cost the other spouse rights like child custody. If you are accused of child or spousal abuse, for example, a judge may issue an order of protection barring you from contact with your spouse and/or your child. The Illinois Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) may also launch an investigation into you.

What Should I Do If I Am Falsely Accused?

If your spouse makes false accusations against you, try taking the following steps:

• Comply with all orders and investigations. It is important not to validate accusations that are untrue. If you violate an order of protection or do not cooperate with a DCFS investigation it can look like there is credence to your spouse’s false claims.

• Avoid confronting your spouse. There is little likelihood that confronting your accuser will come to any good. More likely, he or she will try to report you to authorities for intimidation or harassment. This can lead the DCFS to build a profile on you that supports the allegations. Some spouses know this and count on their false accusations throwing the other party off balance and causing them to make serious mistakes.

• Gather evidence. Immediately begin gathering as much evidence as possible to refute your spouse’s claims. Collect texts, emails, social media content, witness testimony, and anything else that may show your innocence. For example, if your spouse accuses you of abusing him or her on a certain date, try to find records that contradict that statement. Ask your attorney to help guide you in your evidence gathering.

Contact a Geneva, IL Divorce Attorney

Being accused falsely can throw a major wrench in the divorce process, cause psychological trauma, and interfere with your rights. A Kane County, IL divorce lawyer, however, can help clean your slate, defend your rights, and take counteractions. At The Law Office of Matthew M. Williams, P.C., we have handled many cases involving false allegations and we will aggressively defend you against untrue claims. Call 630-409-8184 to speak with an experienced divorce attorney today.