From your civil rights to your freedom and reputation, there is a lot at stake when you are accused of committing a crime. In situations as serious as these, you have the right to have legal representation for yourself when you go to trial. However, there are a lot of approaches that can be taken when it comes to your criminal defense, so how do you know which one is best suited for your individual situation? Ultimately, the best defense will depend on an assortment of factors, including the circumstances that surround the arrest, how the investigating officers behaved, and the evidence that is available. Keep reading to learn a few strategies that are commonly used by attorneys when building a strong defense.
Demonstrate Lack of Proof
The legal system requires that prosecuting attorneys prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the crime was committed by the defendant. Since the burden of proof is on the prosecution, evidence does not have to be offered up by the defense attorney to prove your innocence. Rather, your attorney needs to work on discounting or discrediting the evidence that the state has, finding areas where they can poke holes in the prosecution's story, or introducing other suspects who may have committed the crime.
Establish an Alibi
An alibi serves as a legal strategy that can prove that you were unable to have committed the crime in question. Store receipts, surveillance footage, and eyewitness testimony are all examples of how an attorney can show that you were somewhere else when the alleged crime was being committed and therefore have been wrongfully accused.
Self-Defense
This particular criminal defense strategy is generally only used in cases of manslaughter or assault. Authorities tend to arrest all individuals who are involved in a physical altercation, and this is true regardless of the circumstances that lead up to the incident. If it can be shown that you were simply defending yourself, your safety, and your life, it can prove to be a rather compelling defense strategy and may even result in an acquittal.
If you have been arrested and charged with a serious crime, your next steps are crucial to your future. For the best possible outcome in your criminal case and for help in devising the most appropriate criminal defense strategy, schedule an appointment with a criminal defense attorney in your local area.
To learn more, contact a criminal defense attorney.
Share1 May 2020
Growing up in a law enforcement family, I learned a lot about how arrests take place, what goes into investigations, and more. That gave me a really unique insight when it comes to criminal defense options and the areas where there may be vulnerabilities or loopholes that can be used in court. I've done a lot of research into the legalities of criminal defense as well, so it's allowed me to merge the two and create a site that offers a comprehensive look at criminal defense options and the court's expectations. It's always best to work with a lawyer, but having an understanding of the basics first will help.