Are past allegations of abuse coming back to affect you, even years later? If you’re facing such charges related to a previous relationship, whether with a spouse or dating partner (former or current), you likely have many questions. Understanding how Texas law handles these situations is essential for your defense.
Can I still face charges?
Yes, you can. Even accusations of abuse from years past can lead to charges. However, there’s more to the story. Older incidents may carry less weight than recent ones. Courts understand that people and circumstances change. If the allegations are true, and you’ve genuinely changed your life since then, that’s a big plus in your favor.
However, the prosecutor still needs to prove these old allegations beyond a reasonable doubt. That’s not easy with events from long ago. Memories fade, evidence disappears and witnesses become hard to find.
Responding to allegations of past abuse
Accusations of abuse, even if it was in the past and the alleged victim didn’t report it at the time, can still be legally complex. Courts can still take these accusations seriously and charge you with a crime. That may mean facing domestic abuse charges, which can result in:
- A protective order
- Limitations on your contact with the alleged victim
- Restrictions on access to shared property
- Limitations on your ability to possess firearms
A lack of a prior report doesn’t automatically mean the allegations are false. But the fact that it wasn’t reported can be a factor in your defense. If someone is accusing you of past abuse, seeking the help of a criminal defense lawyer can be beneficial. A lawyer can investigate the specifics of your case, including the circumstances surrounding the allegations and the lack of a prior report, and use this information in your defense.