This is the next post in our series on the handling of hit and run charges in Little Rock, Arkansas. Our last article discussed challenging eyewitnesses in a hit and run case. It is important to understand that excluding eyewitness testimony can effectively end a prosecution if the state has no other evidence which supports the charge. It is important that you retain a criminal defense attorney who is experienced in handling such matters. In this article we will discuss the possibility of resolving your case without going to trial. If you need assistance then contact our office today to speak with a lawyer.
It is possible to resolve a hit and run charge through plea negotiations and this can prevent a defendant from having to go to trial. The type of offer that a prosecutor will be willing to make will, in large part, depend on the facts of your case and your past history. If your case involves a serious injury to a victim and you have a substantial criminal record then it is likely that the prosecutors will ask for a prison sentence as part of any negotiations. If the matter only resulted in minor property damage, and you have no criminal history, then it is likely that the matter may be able to be resolved without your being incarcerated. After a period of time it may also be possible to clear your criminal record. A lesser conviction on your record, as part of a plea agreement, can also mean fewer issues in the future with background checks, trying to get a job, etc.
One issue which can impact plea negotiations is whether you have issues you can raise as part of a defense. The better your possible defenses then the more difficult it will be for the prosecutor to gain a conviction. The more difficult it is for the prosecutor to gain a conviction then the more likely they will be to offer a favorable outcome. Defense issues which can improve one’s bargaining position include challenging eyewitness testimony, whether the police violated the defendant’s rights against unreasonable search and seizure, or whether one has an alibi showing they were not present at the time of the offense. It is, therefore, important that your lawyer thoroughly examine the facts of your case before entering into plea negotiations.
Contact our office today to speak with a Little Rock hit and run attorney. Our lawyers have over twenty-five years of combined experience in defending the rights of the accused and they are ready to assist you. We also handle matters in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Springdale, Jonesboro, North Little Rock, Conway, Rogers, Pine Bluff and throughout the rest of the state.