Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Can a person be charged with a crime if there is no evidence or eye witnesses?


Asked on 3/04/11, 12:43 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

It's unlikely that a charge would be filed if there is absolutely no evidence. It's more likely that there's evidence of which the defendant is unaware.

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Answered on 3/04/11, 12:47 pm
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

"Can" they? Of course. Will they? Yes, if they have sufficient evidence to believe they can charge you in good faith. They may know things you think they don't.

When arrested and charged with any crime, the proper questions are, can you be convicted, and what can you do? Defend the charges. Go to court, enter a not guilty plea, set up and attend the court hearing[s] and trial date[s]. Raise all possible defenses with whatever admissible and credible witnesses, evidence and facts are available for legal arguments for evidence suppression or other motions, plea-bargaining, or at trial. Effective plea-bargaining, using those defenses, could possibly keep you out of jail, or at least dramatically reduce it. Go to trial if it can't be resolved with motions or a plea bargain. There is no magic wand to wave and make it all disappear. Not exactly a do it yourself project in court for someone who does not know how to effectively represent himself against a professional prosecutor intending to convict and jail you. If you don't know how to do these things effectively, then hire an attorney that does, who will try to get a dismissal, diversion, reduction or other decent outcome through plea bargain for you, or take it to trial. If serious about doing so, and if this is in SoCal courts, feel free to contact me. If you can't afford private counsel, you can apply for the Public Defender.

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Answered on 3/04/11, 3:13 pm


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