Criminal Defense Attorney in Grapevine Discusses Self-Defense

If you are facing accusations of a crime, call our office to speak with a criminal defense attorney in Grapevine. Remember that even if you are acting in self-defense, it is possible to be arrested and accused of a crime. For example, someone acting in self-defense could be accused of battery, even if the other party acted first. Thus, it is important to hire an attorney who can gather and present evidence proving that the accused acted to defend themselves.

WHAT CONSTITUTES SELF-DEFENSE?

For someone to act in self-defense, there must be a reasonable fear that they are in danger for their life. “Reasonable” is an important word because if most people, in that situation, would not be afraid or fearful, then it is not self-defense. For example, if someone was charging with a knife, a reasonable person would fear for their safety. If that same person was passing by with a knife, a reasonable person may not feel any type of fear. It really depends on the circumstances leading up to the incident.

Once it has been established that a reasonable person would have been fearful, it is then possible for a person to use as much force as necessary to stop the attack and protect themselves. This could involve hitting someone, using a weapon, etc. The law simply states that a person has the right to defend themselves if they are fearful for their life.

HOW A CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY IN GRAPEVINE CAN HELP YOU

It is not enough to claim self-defense. It must be proven that a person thought their life was in danger. Doing so is not always easy. An attorney needs to gather evidence by interviewing witnesses, checking camera footage and photographs, reading police reports, etc. In some cases, expert witnesses are also called on to testify. Building a case like this takes time and effort, so it is important to hire a criminal defense attorney right away.

The state will also provide a public defender if necessary. While it is possible to work with a public defender, doing so can be detrimental since they do not have the bandwidth to provide detailed representation.

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

To speak with a criminal defense attorney in Grapevine, schedule a consultation with our office.  We can answer questions that you have and provide detailed information about the process of a criminal trial. While it is ongoing, we will continue to provide advice, guidance, and solutions.

Just be careful to exercise your right to remain silent so that you do not accidentally say anything that can be used against you in a court of law. Even things you tell someone by waiting to get out on bail can come back to hurt you during the trial. Stay quiet and protect yourself.

Many people do not realize that even a joke made in the presence of an officer or another inmate can come back in the form of witness testimony during the trial. For this reason, we suggest not speaking until we are there.

NOTE: This is for informational purposes only and does not constitute
legal advice.