What is Inadmissible Evidence?
In the U.S. legal system, the admissibility of evidence is a cornerstone of ensuring fair trials. Inadmissible evidence cannot be presented to the jury or judge during a trial, as its inclusion could compromise the integrity of the proceedings. Understanding when evidence becomes inadmissible is crucial for both defense attorneys and prosecutors. Janet Altschuler is here to help you understand the ways that evidence can become inadmissible and affect your trial.
Evidence Obtained in Violation of Constitutional Rights
The U.S. Constitution provides protections against unlawful searches and seizures. Evidence gathered in violation of these rights is typically inadmissible in court. If you suspect your constitutional rights have been violated, contact Janet Altschuler right away.
Evidence Obtained in Unreasonable Searches and Seizures
Law enforcement officers are generally required to obtain a warrant before conducting searches. Exceptions exist, such as exigent circumstances where immediate action is necessary to prevent harm or the destruction of evidence. If a search is conducted without a warrant or valid exception, any evidence obtained may be suppressed.
Evidence Acquired During an Arrest with a Lack of Probable Cause
For an arrest to be lawful, police must have probable cause to believe that the individual has committed a crime. If an arrest is made without sufficient justification, any evidence obtained as a result may be deemed inadmissible. Janet Altschuler has years of experience defending clients who have been wrongfully arrested.
Violations of the Plain View Doctrine
When executing an arrest warrant, officers may seize evidence in “plain view.” However, they cannot search areas not specified in the warrant without additional justification. For instance, if officers enter a home to arrest someone and see illegal items in plain sight, they can seize them. But they cannot open drawers or closets without a search warrant or applicable exception.
Coerced or Uninformed Confessions
The Fifth Amendment protects individuals from self-incrimination. Law enforcement must inform individuals of their rights, including the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney, before conducting custodial interrogations. Confessions obtained without these warnings, or through coercion, are considered inadmissible. Make sure that you have trusted criminal defense attorney Janet Altschuler by your side when you speak to law enforcement.
Evidence Acquired Through Hearsay Evidence
Hearsay refers to statements made outside of the courtroom presented to prove the truth of the matter asserted. Generally, hearsay is inadmissible due to concerns about its reliability. However, there are numerous exceptions, such as statements made under the belief of impending death or those contained in business records.
If the Evidence Has Chain of Custody Issues, It Cannot Be Used
For physical evidence to be admissible, it must be shown that it has been properly handled and documented from the time of collection to its presentation in court. Any gaps or discrepancies in this chain can lead to questions about the evidence’s integrity, potentially rendering it inadmissible. Janet Altschuler will make sure that any evidence is handled correctly when she defends you.
Evidence Must Be Relevant and Without Prejudice
Evidence must be directly related to the case to be admissible. Even if relevant, evidence may be excluded if its potential to unfairly prejudice the jury outweighs its probative value. For example, graphic photographs of a crime scene might be deemed too inflammatory if they don’t provide additional pertinent information.
Improperly Obtained Evidence by Private Individuals
The exclusionary rule primarily applies to government actors. Evidence obtained unlawfully by private citizens is generally admissible unless the individual acted at the direction of law enforcement.
Prosecutorial Misconduct
If a prosecutor introduces evidence that they know to be inadmissible or withholds exculpatory evidence (evidence favorable to the defendant), it can be grounds for declaring a mistrial or appealing a conviction.
Don’t Risk Your Future – Work with an Experienced Tucson Criminal Defense Attorney
The rules governing evidence admissibility are designed to uphold the fairness and integrity of the judicial process. Both defense attorneys and prosecutors must be vigilant in ensuring that only appropriate evidence is presented in court. For individuals facing criminal charges, it’s essential to have knowledgeable legal representation to navigate these complex evidentiary rules and protect their rights.
Janet Altschuler has more than 20 years of experience defending clients in Tucson. If you are facing criminal charges, contact her today for your free initial consultation. Whether you are currently in jail or in custody, she can help get you the freedom you deserve.