You and your current spouse are in the midst of divorcing in North Carolina. Out of nowhere, you learn your husband or wife has accused you of domestic violence. While you may have raised your voice, you have not laid hands on your soon-to-be-ex-spouse. What gives?
With help from Verywell Mind, you can gain an understanding of your confusing situation. Learn how to free yourself from this tangled web.
Feelings of revenge
It could be that your spouse secretly feels especially petty right now. Accusing you of domestic violence could be her or his way of getting revenge for perceived slights. If the two of you have children, the accusation could be a way to sway your kids away from you and into the arms of the other parent.
More than physical
Even if you have never laid hands on your spouse, a domestic abuse charge may still stick. Current laws expand the definition of abuse to include intimidating behavior and harassment. Maybe you grew especially frustrated during an argument and stood in front of or behind your spouse’s car to keep her or him from driving away from a conversation. Such actions could be enough to put you behind bars.
Order of protection
There is a chance you could find yourself served with an order of protection. If so, you may have no choice but to leave your home and your children. Not being able to see your children because of an order of protection could hurt you during child custody proceedings. It is best to do what you can to at least change the order of protection so you can see your kids.
This information is only intended to educate and should not be interpreted as legal advice.