Beyond a Reasonable Doubt

“Proof beyond a reasonable doubt” is the highest measure of proof necessary in Law. It is the standard that the Government must demonstrate by the production of admissible evidence to convict someone for a crime. The reason for this is that the stakes are so high! Being charged with a misdemeanor or felony crime always subjects a person to serious restraints on their individual liberty, meaning they could be put on probation or sent to jail.

If a juror believes someone is probably guilty, that alone is not enough for a conviction. If a juror is “pretty sure” someone is guilty, that is also not enough. Instead, all twelve jurors must have an abiding and lasting belief that every element of every offense has been proven with evidence beyond a reasonable doubt.

While there is often a general perception that prosecutors always win their cases, this is simply not true. All good district attorneys understand that no case is a “slam dunk” for the prosecution. Furthermore, prosecutors understand that quite often a defendant in a criminal case may end up with a better result should they go to trial, despite the outcome of “winning” or “losing”. This truth gives someone accused of a crime power to negotiate. When someone goes to trial, the judge can see the details and nuances of actions that led to the criminal charges in question.  While a DA may make an “offer” to settle a case, sometimes it may be better to go to trial despite the verdict.  

If you are charged with a crime, my staff and I would assess and investigate your case and consider whether it makes sense to negotiate a plea bargain or in fact take your case to a court or jury trial.  I have over 25 years of experience doing just this, and I have taken close to a hundred cases to trial over the years. I would be pleased to assist and provide a rigorous defense of your case, whether that means negotiating a fair plea-bargain, or exercising your right to make the government prove your charges beyond a reasonable doubt.