Why We See More False Allegations in the Spring

It might sound odd, but there’s actually a seasonal pattern to relationship breakups. Spring is when people tend to reevaluate their relationships. As relationships fall apart, people seek closure—or in high-conflict situations, revenge. That can lead to exaggerated stories or outright lies being told to police. Michigan law takes allegations of domestic violence, stalking, and harassment seriously, which means even a baseless claim can spiral into criminal charges quickly.

If you find yourself being accused after a breakup that didn’t end on great terms, know this: you are not alone. And more importantly, you're not guilty just because someone said so. The burden is on the prosecution to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt.

Common Charges Following a Breakup in Michigan

Let’s take a closer look at the most common types of false accusations we see in our office after a relationship ends.

1. Domestic Violence (DV)

Michigan defines domestic violence as an assault or assault and battery committed by someone against a former or current spouse, someone they live with, or someone they share a dating or sexual relationship with. If an argument escalates—even without physical contact—it could still lead to a DV charge.

False allegations often arise from an angry partner trying to gain the upper hand in a breakup, especially when there are child custody or property disputes involved.

2. Harassment

Harassment in Michigan typically involves repeated unwanted communication or behavior that causes emotional distress. This can include repeated texting, calling, or showing up uninvited. After a breakup, it’s common for people to send emotional messages or try to “talk it out”—but if the other person spins that as threatening or unwanted, it can lead to a police report.

3. Stalking

Stalking is the most serious of these post-breakup accusations. Under Michigan’s laws, stalking involves a pattern of behavior intended to cause fear, emotional distress, or harassment. Charges can escalate if the complainant claims you made threats, followed them, or repeatedly contacted them despite being told to stop.

What’s important is that intent matters. Just because someone felt uncomfortable does not automatically mean a crime occurred.

How False Allegations Impact Your Life

One of the most frustrating aspects of false accusations is how quickly everything can spiral. From the moment a report is made, law enforcement may conduct an arrest—and potentially even charge you—before thoroughly investigating. That means you could be:

• Arrested without warning
• Subject to a no-contact order or PPO (Personal Protection Order)
• Removed from your home if you lived with the accuser
• Barred from seeing your children
• Facing public embarrassment, job loss, or academic consequences

While Michigan law requires that prosecutors prove your guilt in court, the simple act of being charged can cause real damage to your reputation and future. That’s why it’s critical to act fast and have a skilled Michigan criminal defense lawyer on your side.

Your Rights in Michigan When Falsely Accused

Every person accused of a crime in Michigan has constitutional rights, and that includes people falsely accused. These rights include:

• The right to remain silent
• The right to legal counsel
• The right to a fair trial
• The right to confront your accuser and challenge their credibility

The most important thing you can do after an accusation is to not speak to police or the other party without an attorney. Even if you’re trying to “clear things up,” your words can be twisted and used against you in court.

Building a Defense Against False Allegations

Michigan law provides several strategic defenses in cases stemming from false accusations after a breakup. The exact defense depends on the charge, but here are a few common approaches:

Self-Defense or Defense of Property

If there was physical contact and you were acting to protect yourself or your belongings, that's a valid legal defense. In many domestic situations, we find that our clients were actually the victim but got charged anyway.

Lack of Evidence

The prosecutor must prove each element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. If there are no texts, no injuries, and no witnesses, your defense attorney can argue that the allegation is not supported by credible proof.

Inconsistencies in the Accuser’s Story

False allegations often come with stories that change over time. If your attorney can show inconsistencies or motives—like a custody dispute or a recent breakup—it raises questions about the accuser’s credibility.

Alibi or Witness Testimony

In some cases, you may have proof you weren’t even there when the accusation took place. Phone records, GPS data, or witness statements can go a long way in proving your innocence.

What to Do Immediately If You’re Falsely Accused

Timing is everything. If you’ve been accused of harassment, stalking, or domestic violence, do not wait until charges are filed before you take action. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Do not contact your accuser. Even to “clear things up.” This can come back to haunt you in court.
2. Gather evidence. Save all messages, emails, photos, or anything that might support your version of events.
3. Make a list of witnesses. Anyone who was present during key events can help provide context or testify on your behalf.
4. Get legal help fast. Don’t face the court system alone. An experienced criminal defense attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor before charges are even filed.

Call Michigan criminal defense attorney Aaron J. Boria at (734) 453-7806 right away. The sooner we get involved, the better chance we have of preventing charges or getting them dismissed.

What Happens If You're Charged: The Legal Process in Michigan

A criminal case in Michigan typically follows this process:

1. Arrest and Arraignment

After a report is made, police may seek a warrant for your arrest. The arraignment is your first court appearance where you'll be formally told the charges and bond will be set.

2. Pretrial Conference

At this stage, your attorney can begin negotiations, file motions to exclude evidence, or seek a dismissal based on lack of probable cause.

3. Trial Preparation

If the case isn’t dismissed, your lawyer prepares for trial. This includes investigating the accuser, interviewing witnesses, and collecting evidence for your defense.

4. Trial

You have the right to a jury trial. Your attorney will challenge the prosecution’s evidence and present your side of the story. If there is reasonable doubt, the jury must find you not guilty.

Protective Orders and PPOs—What You Need to Know

In many of these cases, the accuser may file for a Personal Protection Order (PPO). If granted, this court order can prevent you from contacting or coming near the person. Violating a PPO—even accidentally—can result in misdemeanor or felony charges.

If you've been served with a PPO in Michigan, you have the right to challenge it at a court hearing. Don’t try to handle a PPO hearing yourself; they are serious proceedings with real consequences. Call Aaron J. Boria at (734) 453-7806 to help you respond and fight back.

Why False Allegations Are So Dangerous

False accusations erode the justice system. They take precious resources away from real victims and can permanently damage the life of an innocent person. In Michigan, school teachers, nurses, law enforcement officers, and other professionals have lost licenses and careers based solely on accusations—not convictions.

Even college students can face academic suspension or expulsion over criminal allegations related to harassment or domestic violence. These consequences make it all the more vital to work with a lawyer who knows how to navigate the system and protect your future.

We’re Here to Help You Clear Your Name

Every day, our office helps innocent people stand up to unfair accusations. Our goal is to get your charges dismissed, your record cleared, and your life back on track. We know how prosecutors think and we know how to fight back against emotional, exaggerated claims.

If you've been falsely accused following a breakup and want to speak with a criminal defense attorney who will fight for you, call us today. Reach Aaron J. Boria at (734) 453-7806. Your consultation is free and confidential.

You can also visit our criminal defense attorney homepage for more information on Michigan law and how we can help.

Final Thoughts

Spring breakups may lead to strained emotions, but they should never lead to wrongful criminal charges. If you're facing accusations of harassment, stalking, or domestic violence in Michigan, don’t panic—but do act fast.

Gather evidence, protect your rights, and reach out for the legal support you need. With the right defense strategy and an attorney who knows how to navigate Michigan courtrooms, you can beat false charges and move forward with your life.

You've worked hard to build your life—don’t let one false accusation tear it apart.