You've never raised a hand to your spouse or your children, so you were shocked when – shortly into the divorce process – your spouse leveled accusations of abuse your way.

Why on earth would your spouse do this to you? What could they possibly have to gain? Let's consider some potential motives.

To get you out of the house

If your spouse goes to court to get a restraining order, one of the things they may accomplish is your immediate removal from the family home. They may be doing this for vindictive reasons (just to punish you for the divorce or something you've done) or as a tactical maneuver to gain other advantages in the divorce.

To separate you from your children

This is often the underlying goal of getting you out of the family home. If they can separate you from your children, even temporarily, your spouse may hope to weaken the bonds you share with them and influence them against you. The goal is likely to gain an advantage when it comes to a custody battle.

To embarrass you

Domestic violence allegations are public record. If you hold a prominent position in the community, your spouse may simply want to extract a little vengeance against you simply because you want to end the marriage.

To gain sympathy with the court

Judges are human. If the judge in your case believes that your spouse has been victimized, they may be more inclined to lean in your spouse's favor regarding whatever may be in dispute.

Whatever the reason, if you've been accused of domestic violence by your spouse, you need to fully understand your defense options and what steps to take next. Don't act until you know more.