The coronavirus has altered lives in ways that few people could have ever anticipated. Americans are grappling with job loss, being forced to stay home, and are homeschooling their children, compounding our difficulties in these unprecedented times.

Unfortunately, these hardships are creating an environment where domestic violence can occur more often. Williamson County intake prosecutors say domestic violence cases are increasing after couples have spent days and weeks together, quarantined from friends and families. Defending yourself against domestic violence accusations is tough under any circumstances. Court closings and social distancing measures make defending yourself in a domestic violence case  even more challenging.

If you feel you may be in a position where your behavior could be interpreted as abusive or if your partner may falsely blame you for domestic violence, managing anxiety and stress will become a vital skill to have. For those who are dealing with stress during the pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends:

–Taking a break from news stories and social media. It’s great to be informed on what’s happening around the world, especially during a pandemic. But today’s news cycle is faster than ever. Keeping up with the latest updates can make you more anxious, so be sure to  check the news sparingly if you’re feeling uncertain.

–Take care of your health. Eat fruits and vegetables, exercise regularly and limit the amount of alcohol you drink. This advice seems basic, but you’ve heard it all your life for a reason – it’s effective. Getting plenty of sleep will help increase your health, too.

-Reach out to loved ones. People may not be able to meet in person as much as they once did, but that doesn’t mean they’re completely out of reach. Call, text or video chat with friends and family if you’re feeling overwhelmed. If you’re in a situation with a partner who says there’s abuse in the relationship, solicit advice from someone you trust. Having an outside perspective can help you see the situation  differently.

If your partner  accuses you of domestic violence, it is best to retain an attorney before charges are pressed against you. These situations are intricate and can read badly if someone isn’t aware of all the facts. This is why many people are falsely accused of domestic violence and arrested on unfounded allegations.

Call the Law Office of Price & Wiggins at (512)354-1880 to learn what we can do for your case. The consequences of being convicted of domestic violence can lead to thousands of dollars in fines and years in prison. Don’t leave your fate to the courts. Having an experienced attorney may be one the smartest decisions you can make in uncertain times.