If you are arrested for domestic violence, the state of Maryland takes those charges very seriously.

The prosecution will come at you full force on your domestic violence charges, and many people in the same situation are taken aback by how easily the prosecutor is able to manipulate the case against you. It’s important that you know ahead of time what to expect and how you can best defend yourself.

1. The Victim Is Telling the Truth

Determining whether or not a victim is telling the truth about domestic violence is a fine line to walk. Victim blaming can be problematic, however, there are many instances where the victim is, in fact, lying about the abuse. To counter the prosecution, your attorney should examine and bring forward any evidence that shows that the victim has a motive to lie.

2. The Defendant is Lying

Although the American legal system says “innocent until proven guilty,” there are many times where the prosecution treats the defendant as though they’re guilty from the start of the case. This bias is all too common and society’s views about domestic violence perpetuates the belief that the defendant must always be lying if they say they’re not guilty. To defend against this prosecution tactic, your criminal defense lawyer should examine and bring forward evidence that proves your innocence, such as witness statments and alibis.

3. The Defendant Has a History of Violence

The prosecution will undoubtedly dig through your past and use any situation they can against you to show that you have a history of domestic violence or other violent acts. Even if there is no real proof that you committed other violent acts, the prosecution will likely manipulate the way evidence is presented to paint you in a negative light.

4. The Defendant Dissuaded the Witness

As soon as you’re charged with domestic violence, the prosecution will attempt to protect the victim by preventing you from contacting them. In reality, they’re working to prevent the victim from reconciling with you or recanting their story. If you call the victim or a witness while you’re in police custody, you’ll likely be charged with intimidating a witness.

Contact a Maryland Defense Lawyer Today

If you’ve been charged with domestic violence, it’s critical that you take action right away to protect your rights under Maryland law. Contact Richard Brueckner today for a consultation to discuss your case in detail and determine what your best defenses are given the evidence in your case. Call now at 410-430-1464.