Felony Attorney—5 Lies about the Criminal Justice System

Myths about the justice system that are propagated by television crime dramas and films make it difficult for a felony attorney to separate the lies from reality to their clients. Many people hire a lawyer with preconceived notions on how the process should run, which usually just ends up causing more harm than good. Here are some common misconceptions debunked.


1. Police Interrogation

In many crime dramas a suspected felon is escorted into a private room, often with a two-way mirror installed, and is given a brutal interrogation by an officer. This may go on for hours and either results in a startling revelation, a confession, or a stalemate. Real interrogations are nothing like this. You may be asked a few basic questions, and they may even try a few scare tactics to elicit a desired response, but more often than not they end quickly as soon as the words, "I want to see my lawyer," are uttered.


2. Forensics Made Easy

One single particle of fluff is often used in movies and television to convict a criminal and send him to prison for life. In the real world, DNA is not the end all be all of crime investigation. While it can be useful, without substantial supporting evidence and testimony a positive match isn't necessarily going to wrap up a case. It's especially difficult to use DNA effectively if the suspect has had any known relation to the victim. Even visiting a home once can result in leaving behind some "evidence." Forensics are always much more complex than how they are depicted for entertainment.

3. Witnesses Win Cases

A court case isn't a game of who can call up more witnesses to a stand. While a witness testimony can be powerful evidence against an alleged suspect, a felony attorney who is not able to gather supportive witnesses in favor of their client is not a failure. Disproving a witness can be even more effective than having someone else corroborate in favor of the defense. Cross examination is crucial during a trial, so don't assume you've lost just because the prosecution has dug up more witnesses.

4. No DNA, No Case


While positive forensics tests that link to a suspect are not as definitive as some might think, likewise a lack of any substantial DNA evidence is not proof of innocence. A felony attorney must construct a defense that is strengthened by multiple facets of evidence in addition to a lack of any forensic finds.


5. Wacky Arguments

Court dramas are full of larger-than-life lawyers who use humor, creative examples, and general wackiness to capture the jury's attention as well as successfully defend their client. The reason this is done is because most trials are very boring and follow a specific protocol. There isn't room in the courts for dramatic speeches, fist pounding, and the high levels of exuberance that is usually displayed on television. During a real trial, the measure of a lawyer's success isn't how outrageous they are, but rather how well they communicate in a professional manner.