Legal Question in Criminal Law in Michigan

My sister is married to an abusive husband. On the day she asked him to leave, he was abusive and I witnessed it and called the police. I made a police report stating that I saw him push her, and she made a report of abuse as well. Now, we both have been summoned to testify and she is saying that it never happened. (she is afraid he will go to jail, apparently he has been in prison for abuse before this.) Anyway, I am going to tell what I witnessed. (I saw him push her) Should I worry about the fact that she is changing her story? Please let me know, I testify tomorrow and just found out she is changing her story.


Asked on 9/26/10, 12:26 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
William Morrison Action Defense Center

Anytime you ask the police to interfere in family affairs, you will be punished in one way or another.

Your sister wants you to butt out because she has come to the realization that her family faces a great deal more damage if her husband is convicted (jail time @ $65/day, costs of husband's relocation to another dwelling, job loss, loss of support, fines costs, child custody issues, legal fees).

I assume you're willing to support your sister financially and have her come live with you now that you have taken responsibility for her life.

Pretty severe consequences for "pushing", wouldn't you say.

Read more
Answered on 10/02/10, 10:00 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Criminal Law questions and answers in Michigan