The key aspect of all criminal cases is evidence. It falls on the prosecution to offer evidence that proves guilt beyond all reasonable doubt.
Defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty, and not all evidence is admissible in court. What types of evidence are inadmissible?
Evidence obtained in unlawful searches
The police commonly conduct searches and seizures to gather evidence. These searches must be carried out according to the law. The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects all citizens from unlawful searches and seizures. Searches must be conducted with a valid warrant based on probable cause. The only exceptions to this are if there are exigent circumstances (such as someone’s life being in danger) or if officers received consent to search.
Forced confessions
Confessions are frequently used as evidence and they often result in a conviction. However, confessions must be legitimate. This means that they must have been given voluntarily and not through coercion. Coerced confessions can be struck out by the court.
Evidence that lacks probative value
Valid evidence must have probative value. This means that it must be highly relevant to the case. Irrelevant evidence lacks probative value and can be deemed inadmissible. An example of such evidence would be a witness who did not see the alleged offense but has a personal grievance against the defendant. On the other hand, a witness who was there at the time of the alleged offense and has no personal ties to the defendant would have probative value.
You have the right to test the evidence against you. Seeking legal guidance will help you formulate the best possible defense strategy.