5 Mistakes to Avoid When Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence in Indiana

False accusations of domestic violence are life-altering. They damage your reputation, jeopardize your freedom, and turn your world upside down—even if you're completely innocent.

At Vining Legal, we've seen it firsthand. I'm Nathan Vining, a criminal defense attorney based in Indiana, and I help people facing false allegations fight back with strategy—not emotion. If you've been accused, the worst thing you can do is make the wrong move.

In this post, I’ll walk you through the five most common mistakes people make when they’re falsely accused of domestic violence—and how to protect yourself from making them.

Mistake #1: Reacting Emotionally or Violently

It’s natural to feel shocked, angry, or betrayed. But reacting emotionally—especially with anger—only makes things worse.

Even yelling, texting in all caps, or slamming a door can be twisted to look like aggression. If law enforcement shows up and sees someone enraged or panicking, it could fuel the case against you.

What to do instead: Stay calm. Get somewhere safe. Talk to a therapist or trusted friend—but don’t talk about the case with them (more on that below). Let your lawyer do the heavy lifting.

Mistake #2: Contacting the Accuser

You might want to clear things up, get closure, or defend yourself directly. Don’t.

Whether it’s a phone call, text, DM, or third-party message—any communication with the accuser can be used against you. In many cases, you’ll be hit with a no-contact order, meaning any attempt to reach out could land you in jail for violating court orders.

Even if they message you first—don’t respond. Screenshot it and send it to your lawyer.

Mistake #3: Talking to Anyone Other Than Your Lawyer

You might trust your best friend, your mom, your group chat—but anything you say can be subpoenaed and used in court.

Attorney-client privilege exists for a reason. Your conversations with your lawyer are protected. Your texts to your cousin? Fair game for the prosecution.

The biggest trap? Social media. I’ve seen clients tank their cases with a single frustrated Facebook post. Don’t vent online.

Mistake #4: Not Preserving Evidence That Could Clear You

Innocent people often assume the truth will come out. But without evidence, it won’t.

Start building your defense immediately. Save anything that proves where you were or shows the nature of your relationship with the accuser.

Examples of helpful evidence:

• Phone location data or GPS history

• Texts, emails, or DMs from the accuser

• Screenshots of social media activity

• Security cam footage or Ring doorbell video

• Witness statements from people who saw you during the alleged incident

The sooner you act, the more you’ll have. Evidence can disappear quickly—don’t wait.

Mistake #5: Failing to Hire a Skilled Domestic Violence Defense Attorney

This isn’t a speeding ticket. A domestic violence charge—even a misdemeanor—can carry jail time, restraining orders, job loss, and permanent record damage. A conviction can affect custody, housing, and professional licenses.

An experienced attorney can:

• Challenge weak evidence

• File motions to suppress illegally obtained statements

• Cross-examine the accuser effectively

• Negotiate reduced or dismissed charges

• Help clear your name

At Vining Legal, we’ve successfully defended clients across Indiana who were wrongly accused. Your best defense is a good strategy—get one fast.

Other Things to Keep in Mind

Even after charges are filed, your behavior matters:

• Follow every court order. No contact means no contact.

• Understand what’s at stake. A domestic violence record doesn’t go away easily.

Conclusion: False Accusations Are Serious—But So Is Your Defense

Domestic violence accusations carry weight. A false one can derail your life. But you’re not powerless.

Avoid the five mistakes:

1. Don’t react emotionally

2. Don’t contact the accuser

3. Don’t talk to anyone except your lawyer

4. Don’t skip gathering evidence

5. Don’t go it alone—hire a pro

With the right strategy, you can protect your rights, defend your reputation, and move forward.

📞 Falsely Accused in Indiana? Let’s Talk.

At Vining Legal, we know how to fight back. Call (317) 759-3225 or schedule a consultation now. You only get one shot at a strong defense—make it count.

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