It is also very important to find a support system. Most parents who experience a false allegation of abuse feel bewildered, alone, and unsure of what to do. They feel as if they are the only person in the world ever to have faced such a problem, and wonder what they could possibly have done to deserve such a horrible fate. In truth, every day there are thousands of parents going through the same thing. Contact a non-custodial parents' rights organization, and ask about meetings, where you will find resources, support, and understanding. Finally, once you have dealt with the allegations, be sure to check with your attorney to find out what, if any, legal remedies may be available to you. Although it is very difficult to prove that the accusation was known to be unfounded when it was made, many states do have penalties for intentionally making such false allegations. In some states, the repeated use of false allegations can be grounds for a change of custody. The best strategy with respect to false allegations of abuse is to realize that it can happen to you, and to take precautions such as those outlined in this course to head it off at the pass. If an allegation does occur, remain calm, get to an attorney as soon as possible, and realize that you are not alone.
If false allegations of abuse are brought upon you and however, despite your precautions, and despite your innocence, and despite the implausibility or even the impossibility of the allegations, it is critical that you get an attorney immediately, and before you do anything else! Even if the charges are not criminal, your future with your children is at stake. You may feel that you can't afford to get an attorney; the fact is, you can't afford not to.
