What Are the Most Common Criminal Defense Arguments?

Criminal Defense Arguments

“If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit!” This iconic phrase was uttered by Johnnie Cochran, the criminal defense lawyer for OJ Simpson, during the most well-known murder trial in history. Cochran strongly alleged that Simpson’s hands didn’t fit inside the gloves used during the murder, which obviously showed that his client didn’t commit the crime. Ultimately, Cochran was successful and OJ was not convicted.

If you’re charged with a crime, then you need to know about the most common defenses in criminal court.

Common Defense Strategies in Criminal Court

When you’ve been charged with a crime, it feels like your whole life has been flipped upside down. Suddenly, your freedom has been taken away from you and you’re facing the possibility of even worse punishments if you’re found guilty. A simple defense of “I didn’t do it” isn’t satisfactory. You need to have a valid legal defense strategy in mind before you get to court. Here’s our list of the most common defense strategies used in criminal court:

• No intent to commit the crime (accident)
• Mistake of fact
• The crime was committed out of duress or necessity
• Police misconduct or a violation of your rights
• Intoxication (may still result in other charges)
• Self-defense
• Insanity (may still result in institutionalization)

Once you decide on a defense strategy, you need to start considering what the prosecutor will argue. What kind of evidence does the prosecutor have against you? You may need to switch up your defense strategy based on information from the prosecutors.

Should You Hire an Attorney?

If you’ve been arrested, then you’ve likely already heard that you have a right to an attorney. If you don’t have the money to hire one yourself, then you can get one appointed to you. Should you exercise your right to legal representation? Absolutely! Here’s why:

• An attorney will protect your rights
• Your attorney will identify the best legal strategy to use in your situation
• An attorney will help you understand the prosecutor’s strategy
• An attorney can help coach you in preparation for a trial

You have a lot at stake when you’ve been charged with a crime. Even if you know you’re innocent, it’s not wise to count on the judge or a jury siding with you.

Contact an Experienced Moorestown Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Criminal Charges in New Jersey

Were you arrested or charged with a crime in New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving you with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending you to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. The Law Office of Michele Finizio has successfully represented clients charged with crimes in Moorestown, Camden, Cherry Hill, Washington Township, Monroe, Mount Laurel, Medford, and throughout New Jersey. Call 856-888-9059 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 9 E. Main St, Moorestown.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.