Being falsely accused is any person's worst nightmare. However, misunderstandings or just plain spite can put you in this unfortunate situation. If you are accused of something you didn't do, remain silent, consult a lawyer, collect evidence, avoid contacting your abuser, and obey the court.
In California, the crime of false accusations is a misdemeanor and you can be prosecuted for it. The penalties for giving false information to the police are up to six months in jail and possible fines. Depending on the circumstances, you could also be granted probation.
Your lawsuit must show that this person knew or should have known that their statements were false, but made them anyway in order to deliberately harm you. A civil lawsuit for defamation of character via false allegations of a crime can come in two forms: slander and libel.
False Accusations—Defamation of Character by Libel or Slander.