Recanting Your Statement in a Domestic Violence Case

Recanting a statement in a domestic violence case is a serious decision that can affect the outcome. If the original statement was made under pressure, fear, or confusion, correcting it may be necessary to ensure accurate information is presented to the court. This change can directly influence how the case proceeds and is judged.

However, recanting statements in Palm Beach County, FL for domestic violence cases can be risky, especially if the original statement was given under oath. Perjury—or lying under oath—can result in severe consequences, including possible jail time.

Having a lawyer like Kevin Peterford on your side can make all the difference. With his knowledge of the legal system, he can guide you on how to correct your statement while avoiding additional legal risks.

What Are the Consequences of Perjury?

Perjury is a serious offense in Florida, with harsh penalties for those who knowingly give false information during legal proceedings.

The law requires individuals to speak truthfully in court or when giving sworn statements, and any intentional dishonesty can lead to criminal charges. Penalties for perjury range from fines to jail time, and in some cases, perjury is classified as a felony.

However, not all false statements are made on purpose. Stress, confusion, or misunderstanding can lead to someone unintentionally providing inaccurate information. Florida law recognizes this and offers protection in specific situations, especially if the mistake is corrected before it affects the case. Recanting a false statement under the right circumstances can help individuals avoid perjury charges.

This leads us to the next important point—how recantation can serve as a legal defense.

Recantation as a Defense

Reasons the Accused Might Wish to Recant Their Original Statement

There are several reasons why someone accused of domestic violence might decide to recant their initial statement:

• Pressure or Coercion: The accused may have been pressured by family members, friends, or even the alleged victim to make a particular statement. Later, they may wish to correct their story to reduce charges or penalties.
• Inconsistencies or Errors: The accused might have made mistakes or provided conflicting accounts in the heat of the moment. Upon reflection, they may realize these mistakes could hurt their defense and seek to recant the statement.
• Impaired State: In some instances, the accused may have been under the influence of drugs or alcohol when they first spoke to the police. Later, they might see that their impaired judgment led to inaccuracies in their statement. Recanting can help make the facts of the case more clear.

Recanting a statement demands careful handling as part of a defense strategy. Working with an experienced attorney like Kevin Peterford helps protect your rights and reduces the risk of additional complications.