October 1, 2024
We’ve all seen courtroom drama TV shows where expert witnesses reveal surprising information on the stand. In some instances, such revelations result in outbursts in the court. Rarely are these scenarios as eventful as television directors would have you believe, but expert witnesses can influence the outcome of criminal cases in New Jersey to a tremendous degree.
This makes these professionals incredibly important when someone is facing serious charges. Judges and jurors are aware that they don’t know everything. They need expert testimony in certain situations to help them better understand the facts of a case. Without such testimony, the only facts presented would be those easily understood by the layperson.
Unfortunately, the complexity of criminal cases means that this is typically insufficient. That’s why it’s critical to understand how expert witnesses can influence criminal case outcomes.
Even the smartest of laypeople don’t have expertise in fields that are often relevant to criminal cases. Ask yourself, do you know what different types of blood splatter tell you about a murder scene? Do you know what medical ailments could result in false positives in drug and alcohol toxicology reports? If the answer to these questions is “no,” you should not feel bad.
The simple fact is that professionals need years of continuing education to learn about these matters. Expert witnesses can provide informed opinions in the following areas:
Clearly, these are all areas of science that most people don’t have a working knowledge of. Fortunately, there’s no need for judges, jurors, defendants, or prosecutors to have such working knowledge. Expert witnesses influence criminal defense outcomes in New Jersey because they can present this incredibly complex information in a way we can all understand.
When the prosecution presents their case, they do so in a way that focuses on removing any doubt of the defendant’s guilt. This means the evidence they present is damning by nature. If they fail to establish their case beyond a reasonable doubt, defendants can ask for a case to be thrown out entirely due to the prosecution not meeting their burden.
This rarely happens, and that’s because prosecutors are good at their jobs. However, expert witnesses can play a critical role in challenging such evidence. They often do this through discrediting forensic evidence, disproving certain elements of the crime, or critiquing law enforcement strategies (e.g., constitutional violations, evidence collection).
It’s not the duty of the defendant to prove their innocence. Rather, the prosecution is tasked with proving guilt. Unfortunately, the evidence presented by the prosecution is not always perfect – even when it’s presented as such. When this is the case, expert witnesses can significantly impact the outcome of a New Jersey criminal case.
From first-time DWI charges to accusations of serial murder, it’s typically advisable for the defense to present their own series of events. While the defense isn’t required to present a case at all – a sometimes effective approach when the prosecution fails to prove their case – doing so can help them cast doubt on the case and secure a not guilty verdict. Fortunately for those charged with crimes, defense attorneys often have existing relationships with these experts.
Bringing expert witnesses to the stand is a great way to bolster specific defenses. For instance, a forensic expert might be able to support a claim of self-defense by analyzing weapon trajectory or wound patterns. Similarly, mental health professionals can provide assessments of the defendant’s mental state to argue that they were not fully responsible for their actions. These professionals can even verify alibi information, such as GPS tracking or cell phone data.
Reasonable doubt can be everything in a criminal case. Rather than just supporting the defense strategy or challenging the prosecution’s claims, expert witnesses can also offer alternative explanations of evidence, demonstrate flaws in prosecutorial or police methods, and question the credibility of the prosecution’s own expert witnesses.
In New Jersey, a criminal conviction requires that guilt be proved “beyond a reasonable doubt.” If expert testimony can cast such doubt on any element of the prosecution’s case, then under the law, the court is required to return a verdict of not guilty. We all know that miscarriages of justice are common in the system, but expert witnesses can minimize the risk of such outcomes.
The impact of an expert witness on criminal defense cases in New Jersey depends heavily on how credible they appear to the jury. It’s not enough to just hire someone who claims they know what they’re talking about – even if what they’re saying seems logical.
Under New Jersey law, such testimony must be given by someone with “scientific, technical, or other specialized knowledge.” Verify the expert’s qualifications and experience. Also, make sure they can communicate their explanation clearly and are prepared for cross-examination.
These factors can make or break a case.
If you’ve been charged with a crime, your ability to secure a dismissal or not guilty verdict will depend on a variety of factors. However, utilizing expert testimony during your trial may be the best shot you have at a favorable outcome. Of course, the average person doesn’t have relationships with experts in relevant fields.
Fortunately, it’s likely that you can find a criminal defense attorney who does have such relationships. While expert witnesses can influence the outcome of a criminal defense case to a high degree, they won’t always be necessary to win your case. You should discuss the issues with your lawyer to learn the best approach to seeking a positive solution in your case.
At The Hernandez Law Firm, we’re here to help you fight against an unfair system. Contact us at 732-582-5076 to schedule your free consultation today.
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