Sometimes, the court may exclude certain evidence from being used in a trial. This happens following a motion to suppress, usually filed by the defense during pre-trial hearings. By suppressing evidence, the court aims to protect your rights and uphold the best interests of justice.
A judge may grant a motion to suppress for various reasons. For instance, evidence obtained in violation of your constitutional rights, such as the right against unlawful search and seizure or through a forced confession, may be deemed inadmissible in court and excluded from your trial. Mistakes by law enforcement that tamper with the integrity of the evidence may also lead to a similar outcome.
Suppressing evidence is not a matter of your guilt or innocence
It’s crucial to understand that the decision to exclude evidence from trial is not a judgment on whether you are guilty. Instead, it revolves around the procedural aspects of how the evidence was obtained. In other words, your case may still proceed to trial if the prosecution decides to.
How evidence suppression may impact your case
Suppressing evidence in a criminal case can significantly weaken the prosecution’s argument, especially if it is crucial to prove your guilt to the required legal threshold. This can enhance the likelihood of an acquittal or reduced charges. It can also give the defense more leverage when negotiating a plea deal.
Given the legal technicalities involved, it may be difficult to tell what evidence is admissible, especially if you are not well-versed in the nuances of the criminal justice system. It highlights the need for qualified assistance to help take informed action and protect your interests.