If I Was Caught on Camera, Does It Automatically Mean I Will Be Convicted?
Whether you are being accused of robbery, burglary, or any other crime, it is never ideal if the prosecuting attorney has footage of you at the crime scene. If you are facing criminal charges and the prosecutor has video footage showing you at the crime scene, you may wonder if you will be convicted. So, does being caught on camera automatically mean you will be convicted? It is not a given that video footage will result in you being found guilty. It is possible to get a not guilty verdict even if there is video footage that paints you in a bad light. With the help of a skilled criminal defense attorney, you may be able to avoid a conviction. And even if you are convicted, a skilled criminal defense attorney help you reach the best outcome in your circumstance.
An Attorney Can Help Exclude Harmful Video Footage
Not all evidence can be used in a criminal proceeding. Only admissible evidence can be used in a criminal proceeding. If evidence is considered inadmissible, it cannot be presented in court. Inadmissible evidence is evidence that is not relevant, reliable, or that has been obtained illegally. A qualified and experienced criminal defense lawyer will review the evidence in your case to determine if grounds for a legal challenge to exclude the evidence exists. Even without a successful exclusion of evidence, a skilled attorney will examine the video footage the prosecution intends to use against you to determine its weaknesses.
Video Footage May Not Be Enough To Prove Guilt Beyond a Reasonable Doubt
Even if the prosecution manages to enter the video evidence in the criminal proceeding, it is unlikely that the footage is the only evidence presented. And before a verdict can be reached, all the evidence presented, including witness testimonies and forensic evidence (if any), must be carefully examined. If the prosecution does not prove all elements of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt, you cannot be convicted.
Video Footage Can Work in Your Favor
Just as video footage can be used to imply guilt, it can also be used to establish a reasonable doubt. A skilled defense lawyer can seek footage that can help your defense. For example, your attorney can seek to obtain footage that shows you were somewhere else and not at the crime scene when the crime occurred. This type of defense is called an alibi.
Contact an Indianapolis Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you are facing criminal charges, our skilled and dedicated Indianapolis criminal defense lawyers at Rigney Law LLC are here for you. Regardless of the strength of the State’s case, we are here and able to help you reach the best possible outcome. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.