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Want to Testify in Your Defense? Here’s What You Should Know (Part 2)

February 11, 2014

Defendants who may want to testify in their defense need to consider whether taking the stand could allow prosecutors to introduce new evidence against them.

Continuing from Want to Testify in Your Defense? Here’s What You Should Know (Part 1), the following discusses two additional factors that defendants need to be aware of when they are making the crucial decision whether or not to take the witness stand during their criminal trial.

Your body language and demeanor can be just as important as the words you speak – When defendants take the witness stand, jurors will be closely paying attention to their demeanor, tone and body language in addition to what defendants are saying. This means that, without even knowing it, defendants can create negative impressions on jurors regardless of what they say.Given this fact, being able to prepare with a defense attorney before taking the witness stand is critical, as an experienced trial lawyer can help point out what aspects of a defendant’s body language or tone will likely be off putting to jurors and how defendants may want to consider changing their body language (or demeanor/tone) to avoid hurting their defense.
Testifying could open up the possibility of new evidence being introduced in the case – In some cases, having defendants take the stand can open up the possibility for the defense team or prosecutors to introduce new evidence in the case. While such a possibility can be favorable if the new evidence will help strengthen the defense, defendants will have to think long and hard about whether it’s a good idea for them to testify in their own defense if and when it may allow prosecutors to introduce damning new evidence like, for example, a defendant’s criminal record.

Stay posted for our upcoming installment of this blog for the final two crucial points that defendants need to consider when they are deciding whether or not to testify in their defense.

Denver and Boulder Metro Area Criminal Defense Lawyer at the Griffin Law Firm

Facing any type of criminal charges can be both scary and stressful, as a conviction could cost you your reputation, your career, your family and even your freedom. If you or your loved one has been arrested for and/or formally charged with any crime, Christopher Griffin wants you to know that he is ready to immediately start providing you with the strongest possible defense against police and prosecutors – both outside and inside of the courtroom.

Regardless of whether you are facing criminal charges for the first time, have prior convictions and/or were on probation or parole at the time of the alleged crime, Christopher Griffin and all of the legal professionals at the Griffin Law Firm will work relentlessly to help you obtain the best possible outcome to your case. In fact, our steadfast dedication to the notion that the accused are innocent until proven guilty means that we will do everything in our power to help you resolve your case in the most favorable and efficient manner possible.

To receive a complete evaluation of your case, along with professional advice regarding your best options, contact us by calling 303-280-1070 or by emailing us using the form at the top of this page.