Different criminal defense strategies can help accused individuals in different situations, so it is important to be familiar with the options available. The best and most appropriate criminal defense option depends on the accused individual’s unique circumstances. Criminal charges can result in serious penalties for accused individuals, so it is important for them to have a strong defense.
One way of addressing criminal charges is to present an affirmative defense. An affirmative defense provides a reason for the actions the accused individual has been charged with. An affirmative defense does not argue that the accused individual did not take the alleged actions, but that they had a reason to do so, such as self-defense, necessity, insanity, duress, entrapment and others.
Other criminal defense options are available when accused individuals do not think an affirmative defense applies to their circumstances. Criminal charges may be challenged if authorities violated any of the accused individual’s rights or failed to follow proper procedures required for the protection of the accused individual’s rights. The alleged facts or witness statements may also be challenged.
Because affirmative defenses can be particularly specific, accused individuals who think an affirmative defense may apply to their situation should be familiar with what they are. In any circumstance, accused individuals facing criminal charges should be familiar with how they can protect themselves. A strong criminal defense strategy can help those accused of criminal charges to alleviate the anxiety that goes along with these charges. If you are facing criminal charges, you should contact an attorney to help with your defense.