This post concludes and recaps our series on the handling of Little Rock, Arkansas criminal cases which involve confidential informants. We felt it necessary to write on this topic as such cases involve complicated issues of law and many defendants are unsure of how to proceed after they have been arrested. The goal of our last several articles has been to provide information which will help people to better understand their situation. Such an understanding should allow one to make a more informed decision when selecting a criminal defense attorney. If you or a loved one need assistance then contact our office today to speak with a lawyer.
We have addressed several topics over our recent articles. Issues which we have analyzed include:
- When police may rely on the word of a confidential informant
- Challenging a C.I. through Motion practice
- Challenging a C.I. in Court
- Appealing convictions which involved an informant
There are several reasons why defendants should understand these topics. First, law enforcement officers are not permitted to simply take what an informant tells them at face value. When relying on an informant, officers must be able to show that the C.I. has a history of providing reliable information. Second, a defendant must understand the process of challenging a the use of a C.I. through Motion practice. It is a complicated process which will involve an evidentiary hearing. Finally, if a defendant is not successful at trial then they have the option of filing an appeal.
One point we have stressed through each of these articles is that you should retain a qualified lawyer to assist you in cases which involve a C.I. Such matters involve areas of search and seizure law which an inexperienced attorney may not be well versed in. Hiring the right attorney can make a difference in the outcome of your matter. Contact our Little Rock office today 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.