Prevention of Wrongful Convictions
Criminal defense attorneys play a vital role in preserving the integrity of our criminal justice system. But due to many factors, wrongful convictions incarcerate many innocent people in jails and prisons across the country. Those affected often have their lives destroyed as they lose careers and families while enduring the agony of prison life. Once their convictions are reversed, sometimes after many years of imprisonment, they re-enter the community and require housing, education, mental health services, and financial assistance. Many states, including Florida, and the federal government, offer compensation for those wrongfully convicted. However, it does not adequately make up for their losses.
Contributing causes for wrongful convictions include but are not limited to:
- Plea bargain incentives for the innocent.
- Destruction or contamination of evidence.
- Prejudice against a class of people.
- Misidentification by eyewitnesses.
- Perjury.
- Faulty forensics.
- False confessions.
- Judicial misconduct.
- Faulty expert testimony.
The National Registry of Exonerations documents detailed information on those convicted and later exonerated since 1989. In 2019, 143 exonerations occurred in this country. Over the last twenty-five years, there have been more than 2,000 exonerations, including 200 from death row. However, countless others remain wrongfully incarcerated.
Preventing a Wrongful Conviction
The Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution affords defendants the right to counsel in state and federal prosecutions. For those accused or investigated for a criminal offense, hiring a skillful and diligent defense attorney is the best safeguard against wrongful conviction and incarceration. The criminal defense process is complicated. Consulting with a criminal defense attorney that is well-versed in criminal law and citizen’s rights is vital to protect a defendant against wrongful accusations. Choosing a quality criminal defense attorney can be the difference between a dismissal, an acquittal, or a conviction.
The AP Law Group Aggressively Defends against Wrongful Convictions
With extensive and impassioned real-world trial and appellate experience, Attorneys Tania Alavi and Andrew Pozzuto defend clients charged with misdemeanors, felonies, and federal crimes. While every case is unique, there are common elements that occur even before a trial begins. Our law firm takes sufficient time to form a relationship of trust with the client, discussing options, and working collaboratively to formulate a defense for the most favorable outcome.
In preparing for a case, we interview witnesses, law enforcement, and other relevant persons. We analyze the facts of the case and research case studies. Forensic science professionals are utilized as necessary to dispute faulty evidence. As appropriate, we prepare pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges and negotiate with prosecutors on our client’s behalf. Our legal team fiercely protects our clients through the pre-trial and trial phase, sentencing, and, if necessary, during an appeals process.
We Pursue the Justice You Deserve
If you or a loved one has been arrested or investigated for a state or federal crime, contact the AP Law Group immediately for a free consultation at 352-732-9191. We believe in personalized and aggressive representation for our clients to prevent wrongful convictions. We represent clients in Gainesville, Ocala, and the surrounding counties.