24/7 call for a free consultation 212-300-5196

AS SEEN ON

EXPERIENCEDTop Rated

YOU MAY HAVE SEEN TODD SPODEK ON THE NETFLIX SHOW
INVENTING ANNA

When youโ€™re facing a federal issue, you need an attorney whose going to be available 24/7 to help you get the results and outcome you need. The value of working with the Spodek Law Group is that we treat each and every client like a member of our family.

Can I be charged for false statements made by my spouse or child?

 

Can I be charged for false statements made by my spouse or child?

This is a tricky legal situation that many folks find themselves in. If your spouse or kid lied to the police or court, you may worry you could face charges too. Let’s break it down.

First off, you generally can’t be criminally charged just because your family member lied. The law recognizes that people aren’t responsible for others’ actions. But there are some exceptions.

If you actively helped plan or carry out your spouse or child’s lie, you could be charged with conspiracy, obstruction of justice, or being an accessory. For example, if you provided a fake alibi for your spouse who committed a crime, you’d likely face charges too.

You could also be charged if you knew about the lie but didn’t report it. This is called misprision of felony. Prosecutors rarely bring misprision charges though. Mostly it’s used as a plea bargain or stacked charge.

Another risk is perjury charges. Let’s say your spouse lied under oath but you backed up their story with false testimony too. You could both be charged with perjury or obstruction.

Some states also have “false personation” laws. If your spouse used your identity or pretended to be you, you could potentially be charged too. For example, if they signed legal documents or filed court papers in your name.

But in most cases, you can’t be criminally charged just because your family member lied to authorities. You have to be actively involved in the false statements in some way.

Christine Twomey
Christine Twomey
2024-03-21
Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldnโ€™t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.
Brendan huisman
Brendan huisman
2024-03-18
Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!
Guerline Menard
Guerline Menard
2024-03-18
Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™Œ๐Ÿผโค๏ธ
Keisha Parris
Keisha Parris
2024-03-15
Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were โ€œIโ€™m not worried about itโ€. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.
Taรฏko Beauty
Taรฏko Beauty
2024-03-15
I donโ€™t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and thatโ€™s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now thatโ€™s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words canโ€™t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. Iโ€™m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!
Anthony Williams
Anthony Williams
2024-03-12
Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.
Loveth Okpedo
Loveth Okpedo
2024-03-12
Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience
Bee L
Bee L
2024-02-28
Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.
divesh patel
divesh patel
2024-02-24
I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

Other Legal Consequences

However, you may still face other legal consequences like:

  • Losing custody or visitation rights if your spouse makes false abuse claims against you in a divorce or custody case. Judges don’t take kindly to lies under oath.
  • Having a restraining order issued against you based on false allegations by your spouse or child. You’ll have to challenge it in court.
  • Being sued for defamation if your spouse or child falsely accuses someone of a crime or misconduct. You could be liable even if you didn’t know about the false claim.
  • Higher bail or denied bail if your spouse lies about your criminal history, employment, or community ties at your bail hearing. This could mean you stay locked up longer.
  • Harsher sentencing if your child falsely minimizes your role in a crime you’re charged with. Judges may see you as unwilling to take responsibility.
  • Loss of certain licenses or employment if your spouse makes false statements related to your job or licensed activity. For example, an abuse claim could cost you a security clearance.

So while you likely can’t be criminally charged solely because of lies by your spouse or child, their false statements can still create major legal headaches for you. It may lead to loss of rights, lengthy court battles, financial liability, or damage to your reputation.

Protecting Yourself

What can you do to protect yourself? Here are some tips:

  • If you get wind of any lies by your spouse or child, seek legal counsel immediately. Don’t ignore it. An attorney may be able to intervene before things spiral.
  • Refuse to corroborate or go along with any false narratives. Make it clear you won’t lie or cover for your family member.
  • Report any serious false allegations, like abuse claims, to authorities right away. This shows you’re not complicit.
  • Document evidence contradicting the lies, like cell phone records, receipts, texts, or witnesses. This can refute false claims.
  • If your spouse falsely obtains credit or documents in your name, report identity theft to police and credit agencies. File fraud claims.
  • In family court cases, point out and challenge any false statements by your spouse under oath. Refute lies with evidence.
  • If you’re accused of a crime because of your spouse’s lies, don’t try to cover for them. Be 100% truthful with your lawyer and investigators.
  • If you share assets or accounts with your spouse, separate your finances if they show signs of dishonesty. This limits potential liability.
  • Seek a divorce or cut off contact with dishonest family members. Ongoing association leaves you vulnerable legally.

The bottom line – you can’t control what your spouse or child chooses to lie about. But you can control your own actions. Be truthful, don’t cover for lies, act quickly to challenge false allegations, and limit contact with deceitful family members. This gives you the best shot at avoiding legal troubles down the road.

I know it’s painful and confusing when those closest to you lie. But hang in there and protect yourself. With an attorney’s help, you can get through this difficult situation. There are always legal defenses and ways to refute harmful false claims against you. Don’t lose hope!

Schedule Your Consultation Now