Criminal convictions can be extremely stressful and frightening. You could lose your future if you are convicted. An experienced criminal defense attorney navigates the complex criminal justice system and builds a strong defense.
Investigating the facts of the case thoroughly
The foundation of any strong criminal defense is a thorough investigation of the facts. As soon as they take on a new client, criminal defense lawyers will start gathering all relevant information about the case. Examining cop reports, interviewing witnesses, visiting crime scenes, collecting evidence, and consulting with experts are all part of this process. By fully understanding the smallest details of the case, criminal defense attorneys start to piece together where gaps or inconsistencies exist in the prosecution’s evidence.
Looking into the background of the accuser
Assault, domestic violence, and sex crimes all require the testimony of the accused to prove the case. An experienced criminal defense lawyer will not take the accuser’s word at face value. Instead, they will investigate the accuser’s background and credibility. If they uncover red flags like a history of dishonesty, ulterior motives, or biases against the defendant, this information is used to undermine the accuser’s version of events during cross-examination.
Discrediting witnesses for the prosecution
Beyond the accuser, prosecutors will typically call various witnesses to try to corroborate their version of events. criminal defence attorney Toronto needs to prepare meticulously for cross-examinations. By asking the right questions, they poke holes in witness testimony, raise doubts about observation skills and memory, or reveal prejudices. If witnesses provide contradictory or vague accounts under tough questioning, this creates reasonable doubt about the prosecution’s case.
Consulting expert witnesses
Consulting with experts is another key technique criminal lawyers use to strengthen cases. If there are technical, scientific, or specialty issues involved in the case, they will retain trusted expert witnesses who evaluate and analyze the available information. For example, a DNA expert discredits so-called genetic “evidence” against a defendant. Having an impartial expert provide opinions and conclusions that contradict the prosecution’s theories goes a long way with juries.
Humanizing the defendant for the jury
In the courtroom, prosecutors will try to portray defendants as dangerous criminals worthy of punishment. Savvy defense attorneys know juries make emotional decisions about guilt or innocence. Therefore, they will present evidence and testimony that humanizes the defendant and makes the jury see them as more than just criminals. A jury member can be more empathic if they have details about their family, occupation history, volunteer work, and redemptive efforts to draw upon.
Plea bargaining strategically with prosecutors
More than 90% of criminal cases end with plea bargains rather than trials. Negotiating plea deals is an art form criminal lawyers have mastered. To obtain optimal plea bargain terms from prosecutors, they will use their investigative findings and witness discrediting skills. It keeps clients out of jail or with minimized penalties. Even if the evidence overwhelmingly favors the defendant, seasoned lawyers know there are no guarantees with juries. Securing a favorable plea deal brings certainty.
