Criminal Defense Attorney in Shreveport & Bossier City

Effective Defense Strategies for Criminal Charges

Due process is a fundamental principle of the criminal justice system, ensuring that those facing criminal accusations receive fair treatment under the law. It guarantees protections such as the right to a fair trial, legal representation, and the opportunity to challenge the evidence presented against them. Without due process, wrongful convictions and unjust penalties can occur. Understanding the most effective defense strategies can help defendants navigate the legal system and protect their rights. Whether facing misdemeanor or felony charges, a strong legal defense is crucial to achieving a fair outcome in any criminal case.

Securing exceptional legal counsel is the most important thing a person can do when facing criminal charges. At the Whiddon Law Office, our lawyer knows how big of a difference having an aggressive criminal defense attorney on your side can make and urges you to take action to secure legal defense as soon as possible. If you are facing criminal charges in Shreveport-Bossier City or the surrounding areas, reach out to our law firm directly today for a consultation and the responsive legal help you need.

Challenging the Prosecution’s Evidence

One of the most effective defense strategies is scrutinizing the prosecution’s evidence. The burden of proof lies with the state, and the defense can challenge whether the evidence is credible, legally obtained, and sufficient to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The legal challenges may involve questioning the chain of custody of physical evidence, exposing inconsistencies in witness testimony, or challenging forensic evidence. If the prosecution’s case is weak, the defense can seek to have charges reduced or dismissed altogether.

Establishing an Alibi

An alibi defense involves proving that the accused was not present at the crime scene when it occurred. Alibis can be established through witness testimony, video footage, electronic records (such as phone or credit card usage), or other documentation showing that the defendant was in a different location at the time of the alleged offense. A strong alibi can completely discredit the prosecution’s case and lead to an acquittal.

Self-Defense or Defense of Others

In violent crime cases, self-defense is a common and valid legal argument. Under Louisiana law, individuals can protect themselves or others from imminent harm using reasonable force. If a defendant can demonstrate that they acted to prevent harm to themselves or someone else, they may avoid conviction. This strategy often involves examining physical evidence, medical reports, and witness statements to establish that the defendant was not the aggressor.

Police Misconduct and Constitutional Violations

When law enforcement officers violate a defendant’s constitutional rights, such as conducting unlawful search and seizure, failing to read Miranda rights, or coercing a confession, it can form the basis of a compelling and successful defense. A criminal defense attorney can file motions to suppress evidence obtained illegally, leading to a case being dismissed if the prosecution’s key evidence is ruled inadmissible. Challenging improper police procedures is essential to ensuring that justice is served fairly.

Lack of Criminal Intent

Many crimes require proof of intent, meaning the prosecution must show that the defendant knowingly and willfully committed the offense. In cases where the defendant had no intent to commit a crime—such as unknowingly possessing an illegal firearm or being in the wrong place at the wrong time — this may result in a favorable case outcome. Demonstrating a lack of intent through witness statements, expert testimony, or circumstantial evidence can result in charges being reduced or dismissed.

Our Practice Areas

Our law firm is ready to represent you when you need it the most. Being charged with a crime is scary and intimidating; our law firm will provide personalized, attentive legal services that are aimed at protecting your best interests. Our lawyer is experienced in a wide array of criminal defense practice areas, including:

DWI/DUI: If you have been charged with a DWI/DUI crime, you may be facing jail time, license suspension, large fines, mandatory classes, and more, not to mention a mark on your permanent record. We can defend you against charges and help you to navigate your legal options.
Misdemeanors: Don’t be fooled into thinking that a misdemeanor crime is too insignificant to warrant legal counsel—this type of crime will show up on your record and could impact your opportunities in the future. Get legal help immediately.
Felonies: Felony crimes are the most serious crime types and can have both immediate and long-term consequences. Drug charges, violent crimes, white-collar crimes, and more may all be charged as felony crimes.
Drug charges: Drug crimes are harshly penalized in our state and Louisiana does maintain mandatory minimum sentencing requirements for some drug crimes, which means that you may go to jail or prison if convicted. Get help immediately.
Violent crimes, sex crimes, and domestic violence: Violent crimes, including assault, battery, sex crimes like rape or sexual assault, and domestic violence carry serious penalties in our state and can impact your future if convicted.
White-collar crimes: While white-collar crimes almost always involve non-violent financial crimes, these crimes can be charged as felonies and lead to years behind bars. Working with an attorney who is well-versed in white-collar criminal defense is strongly recommended if you’re facing charges.
Theft: Theft crimes are penalized based on the type and the value of the property involved in the crime. There are both misdemeanor and felony theft crimes in Louisiana.
Weapons crime: Committing a weapons crime is a very serious offense in our state and can lead to severe penalties, including incarceration without parole in some cases.
Homicide: Homicide is one of the most serious felony offenses. Homicide is different from murder. The state of Louisiana recognizes both negligent homicide and vehicular homicide as crimes.
College student defense: Our law firm can represent college students facing alcohol charges, marijuana possession charges, sexual assault charges, and other charges. Call today to improve your chances of avoiding a conviction that can disrupt your future.
Expungements and record sealing: Finally, we work with those who have been convicted of crimes in the past to pursue record sealing and expungement.

Call Today to Get Started

If you have been charged with a crime, don’t hesitate to take action to exercise your legal right to competent legal representation. Call our Shreveport-Bossier City criminal defense attorney at the Whiddon Law Office directly today for a consultation about your options and how our lawyer can help.