What Is the Strongest Type of Defense to a Criminal Charge?

Being accused of a crime can lead to feeling like you are drowning in questions. You deserve a lawyer who can help you answer some of them, such as “What is the strongest type of defense to a criminal charge?” or “How can I build a compelling case?”

Hiring a Charlotte criminal lawyer can be a major asset for you and your case. Local lawyers know the ins and outs of the court, as well as what defenses apply to and work in regard to your unique case. They will be able to help you craft a compelling defense that repaints the picture the prosecution will be trying to create.

What Are the Main Kinds of Crime in North Carolina?

Generally speaking, there are roughly four main categories that criminal activity can be sorted into. They are as follows:

• Crimes against property. This includes any crime that involves the damaging or theft of someone else’s property, such as breaking and entering, burglaries, theft of a vehicle, or tagging of property.
• Cybercrimes. These kinds of crimes are committed electronically but can still have steep consequences for the victim(s). This can include hacking, fraud, identity theft, and scamming people out of their money.
• White-collar crimes. White-collar crimes are committed through the context of one’s occupation. Examples of this are money laundering, embezzlement, and wire fraud.
• Violent crimes. Violent crimes include any crime where an individual or individuals’ physical safety is threatened or violated. Crimes of this nature include sexual assault, rape, murder, assault, battery, and robbery.

The strongest defense against criminal charges usually varies based on the crime(s) you are accused of committing. For example, the self-defense argument does not usually apply to embezzlement, and the insanity plea is far too extreme an argument against stealing a wallet out of someone’s locker at the gym.

There are appropriate and applicable defenses for each crime, but it can be hard to decide which one is suitable for you. This is when hiring a local lawyer comes in handy. Criminal lawyers will be able to help you tailor a defense to your unique case. It is their job to gather all of the evidence and deduce what will carry the most impact in court when discussing reasoning, motivation, and situations.

There is, however, one main defense argument that can be applied to the majority of the crimes on the aforementioned list.

What Is the Strongest Type of Defense I Can Have Against Criminal Charges?

Ultimately, the absolute strongest defense you can have is a verifiable alibi. You cannot be in two separate locations at the same time. If you can prove that you had no way to be where the crime occurred at the time of the incident, you have the strongest chance of convincing the court of your innocence. Having someone who can corroborate your story further strengthens your case.

While it may be preferable to maintain your reputation, it is better to have someone who can corroborate your alibi than no one at all. This may include someone with whom you may be embarrassed, such as a mistress. Despite your embarrassment or shame, you are better off proving your innocence.

It is important that you gather as much evidence as possible to show that not only were you where you say you were at the time of the crime, but also that you were with the person you have claimed. This can include recordings, photographs, witness testimonies, videos, and, of course, your statement, as well as theirs.

You can never have enough evidence, so if you have even an inkling that something may count as submittable evidence for your case, you should give it to your lawyer immediately.

FAQs:

Q: Can I Defend Myself When Accused of Criminal Charges in North Carolina?

A: In the state of North Carolina, you are legally allowed to represent yourself, but it is a risky choice. There are various pitfalls you may be unaware of, and it can be hard to protect yourself without an advocate. Hiring an experienced local criminal lawyer will allow you to build a stronger case and cut through the confusion that surrounds the criminal law system.

Q: What Is the Most Common Defense Used Against Violent Crime Charges in North Carolina?

A: Self-defense is the most common defense when it comes to being charged with most violent crimes. Perhaps you felt threatened, or maybe someone else was in danger, and you wanted to protect them. An example of this could be shooting a home invader or punching someone because they refused to respect your personal boundaries. It can create sympathy for the defendant, as well as better explain the individual’s motives behind their response.

Q: What Is the Weakest Defense in a Criminal Case in North Carolina?

A: There are several case elements that can weaken the defense’s argument if they are not managed, including:

• Intoxication. While it limits your control over your actions, voluntary intoxication is rarely a compelling defense.
• Mistake of fact. Just because the accused supposedly misunderstood the events does not mean they did not commit the crime.
• Necessity or duress. If the accused did not act immediately after the supposed need arose, it may be seen as disconnected.

Q: What Is the Hardest Crime to Defend in North Carolina?

A: The hardest crimes to defend in North Carolina tend to be any crime against a minor (such as drunk driving with a minor present, murder or assault of a minor, and sexual exploitation of a minor), as well as first-degree murder and white-collar crimes. There is often emotional prejudice in cases of murder, and the various legal and technical aspects of white-collar crimes make it harder to build a worthy and compelling case.

Start Building Your Case

Being accused of a crime can be overwhelming, but luckily, you do not have to face your criminal charges alone. The team of lawyers at the Law Office of Kevin L. Barnett is ready to help you build a thorough case, strategize for a compelling defense, and support you as you begin the criminal law process. Contact us today for a consultation.