What to do if my friend was wrongfully accused of attempted murder?
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What to do if my friend was wrongfully accused of attempted murder?
The only evidence the victim has is his recollection of the incident and his girlfriend is the witness. However, video surveillance indicates that there were two attackers but the faces were covered by a rag of some sort. My friend had a history of violence but he didn’t do this crime. Is it possible that he can get convicted of a crime he did not commit?
Asked on March 25, 2013 under Criminal Law, New York
Answers:
Anthony Van Johnson / VANJOHNSON LAW FIRM, L.L.C.
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
Absolutely, it is possible that your friend can be convicted of a crime he did or did not commit. Your friend needs to hire an experienced attorney right away. Since you were not present, you are basing your belief merely on what you have been told by your friend. The fact that your friend has a history of violence (and possibly convictions for violent crimes), will be a major problem for him. An attorney can file discovery motions which requires the State to provide its evidence. In the State's discovery, it will reveal what led the police to believe your friend was involved in this crime. And depending on your friend's criminal history, he could possibly be charged as a rescidivist, which if convicted, could mean life in prison. He needs to retain an experienced attorney immediately.
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