You and your significant other had an argument and it got out of hand. He or she called the police. Now they at the door and demanding to come inside and have a word with the two you. You are fully aware of how this situation can end – with you in handcuffs being escorted to jail. You are extremely frightened: How will this look to your neighbors, your family and friends, or your employer?
If you are ever in this unfortunate situation, it will help to know what you can do to avoid making the situation worse. Here are three essential things you should do if the police are called to your home.
1. Answer The Door
Some people panic when they hear the police at the door. Often, they mistakenly believe that if they don’t answer, the police will simply go away. However, this is far from the truth and will only make matters worse.
When the police are called to the scene of a domestic dispute – whether by your significant other or perhaps a concerned neighbor – they have the legal authority to enter your dwelling to make sure that everyone is safe. Refusing to answer the door or hiding from the police can result in you being charged with obstructing a peace officer.
Furthermore, your behavior may be used against you in court to suggest that you must have been committing an offense when the police arrived.
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2. Stay Calm and Cooperative
Being concerned about talking to the police when they arrive is understandable. On the one hand, you have a chance to tell your side of the story. On the other hand, you know (or should know) that anything you say can be used against you. It is not uncommon for domestic violence suspects to be nervous and unintentionally admit to the offense while trying to assert their innocence.
For this reason, it is important to stay calm and cooperate without admitting to striking, verbally abusing, or committing any other act to the other partner that can be considered violent or abusive. If you have any doubts, invoke your right to remain silent by stating clearly that you do not want to answer the questions or give any statement until you have seen an attorney.
Under no circumstances should you lie to the police, become belligerent, or physically interfere with their job. Again, if you do so, you may be charged with obstructing a peace officer and/or assault and battery.
3. Call a Lawyer Immediately
If the police are called to the scene of a domestic dispute and suspect that domestic violence has taken place, someone could be going to jail. Even if you are not arrested on the scene, you may still be charged with domestic violence later.
While you may not be able to prevent these things from happening to you, one thing that you can do to help your case immediately is to contact a defense attorney as soon as possible. The sooner you get a defense attorney involved in the case, your chances of resolving the charges with a favorable outcome and with the least amount of collateral damage to you and your family become much higher.
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Colorado Domestic Violence Defense
If you have been charged with domestic violence in Colorado call the law office of Christian A. Schwaner, P.C. at (719) 440-6720 today, or fill out our online form for a free consultation. We have the experience and skills necessary to resolve your domestic violence case with the best possible outcome.
Call or text (719) 440-6720 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form