Jan 28, 2019
A Witness Not Appearing Does Not Guarantee Acquittal
It is a generally accepted principle that if you get a speeding ticket,
or other traffic violation, and the officer that issued the citation
doesn't appear for the hearing, you will likely have the violation
dismissed. However, the situation is not the same when you are facing
more serious, criminal charges.
Prosecutors generally build cases on more than one piece of crucial evidence. For instance, in a trial over DUI, there will be blood alcohol readings, field sobriety tests, potential witnesses of other passengers
in the car, hospital staff, etc. The fact that one of these players may
not show up for the trial does not change the fact that the prosecution
most likely has much additional evidence and witnesses that they can
produce. So if a witness doesn't show up, it is not a foregone
conclusion that you will be acquitted of the charges against you.
This is why you need a legal team that knows how to defend your rights
on multiple fronts. If you live in Burlington, Essex, Colchester,
Winooski, Williston, Shelburne or anywhere in the State of Vermont, and
have been arrested or charged with DUI or any crime, call Handy Law for
aggressive and experienced legal defense.