Understanding Criminal Defense Strategies

If you're heading to trial for a crime, you have the right to plead innocent and defend yourself. In some cases, even if you were involved, you may be found not guilty for a variety of reasons. If you would like to know more, check out these four common criminal defense strategies.

You're Innocent

Naturally, the number one reason to defend yourself: you're innocent. Unfortunately, sometimes this is easier said than done, but the burden is on the prosecution to prove you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If they lack evidence and/or your attorney can easily counteract and/or discredit their proof, you may be found not guilty.

One of the best ways to prove you're innocent is by providing an alibi. Of course, some alibis are stronger than others, but your attorney will do their best to prove you were not there at the time of the crime, or (if you were there) you were not involved.

You Acted in Self-Defense

Laws can drastically vary from state to state, but you usually always have the right to defend yourself or another person from physical harm. Some states may also allow you to use force to protect your property, such as physically stopping someone from entering your home.

If your attorney can prove you were in danger and you used appropriate force to stop the situation, you may be found not guilty. Naturally, you can boost your chances if you have lots of proof and witnesses that can confirm your claims.

You Were not in the Right State of Mind

While hard, you may be able to use insanity as a defense. Your attorney and doctors will need to work together to prove you did not understand the difference between right and wrong at that moment. For example, if you became enraged upon finding a cheating spouse and hit their partner, the courts may be more lenient.

Similarly, you may be found not guilty if you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the crime. However, naturally, this doesn't work in cases of DUIs, and it's a hard win.

You've Been Entrapped

Cops are allowed to set up sting operations. For example, an undercover cop can pretend to be a drug dealer. They may be allowed to arrest anyone who tries to buy drugs. However, if the officer approached you and started pushing you to buy drugs, it may be considered entrapment.

There is a fine line between stings and entrapment, but your attorney can help, especially if you were harassed or pressured into causing the crime by the undercover cop.

Going to trial can be stressful, but understanding defense strategies can help. If you would like to know more, contact a criminal defense attorney in your area today.

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