This is the next post in our series on the handling of Little Rock, Arkansas cases involving complex fraud charges. Our last article discussed challenging illegally seized evidence in such cases. It is important to understand that fraud charges often involve evidence seized from computers, cell phones, and from other sources. More often than many people realize, police and the F.B.I. violate a defendant’s Fourth or Fifth Amendment rights when seizing such evidence. If you or a loved one have been arrested then it is crucial to contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. In this article we will discuss another important topic – the role of experts in such cases. If you need assistance then contact our office today to speak with a lawyer.
Complex fraud cases which go to trial will often involve expert witnesses. Such cases often involve sophisticated financial transactions or cyber activity such as phishing schemes or hacking. The rules of evidence do not permit a lay person to testify in regards to matters which are beyond everyday knowledge. This means that there may be a need for forensic accountants to testify in cases involving financial fraud, for computer and information technology professionals to testify in cases involving cyber crime, or for business professionals to testify in matters involving embezzlement. The type of expert needed will depend on the specific facts of the case.
Both the prosecution and the defendant will have the opportunity to call experts in such cases. Each respective expert will testify at trial and it is the role of the jury to determine which professional is more credible. It is important to understand that the jury may find neither professional credible or that they may lend the same weight to the testimony of each professional. It is also important to understand that an expert’s testimony will not “make or break” a case. It is simply one part of the evidence which the jurors will consider. At the end of the day the jury can still convict a defendant even if they believed expert testimony which stated that no crime occurred.
If you are facing felony fraud charges then it is crucial that you hire an attorney who is experienced in dealing with expert witnesses. Our Little Rock defense lawyers have over twenty-five years of combined experience in defending the rights of the accused and we are ready to assist you. Contact us online or by telephone to schedule an initial consultation. We also handle matters in Fort Smith, Fayetteville, Springdale, Jonesboro, North Little Rock, Conway, Rogers, Pine Bluff, and throughout the rest of Arkansas.