Using an Alibi as a Defense in Criminal Proceedings in Van Nuys

When deployed effectively, an alibi is one of the strongest strategies a criminal defendant can raise in their defense. Here’s what the alibi defense means, how it works, and — crucially — why your case is best handled by a Van Nuys criminal defense attorney.

 

What Is an Alibi Defense?

An alibi defense contends that you were somewhere else at the place and time the crime allegedly occurred and, therefore, you could not possibly have committed it. California’s jury instructions specify that you do not need to prove you were not at the crime scene. Instead, you must present enough evidence to raise reasonable doubt that you were there.

How Does the Alibi Defense Work in Van Nuys?

Alibi defenses work because the burden of proof in California criminal cases rests with the prosecution. All the defense needs to do is effectively show that the defendant was most likely somewhere else at the time of the alleged crime. If the prosecution cannot prove otherwise, they may not have sufficient evidence to secure a conviction.

Legal Requirements for an Alibi Defense in California

In many cases, alibi defenses are supported by testimony from witnesses who can attest to the defendant’s presence elsewhere at the time of the crime. Per California Penal Code 1054.3, the defense must provide prosecutors ahead of time with:

• The name of any testifying witnesses and what they will say
• Any real evidence the defense plans on presenting at trial 

What Type of Evidence Supports an Alibi Defense?

Strong evidence is key to a strong alibi defense. Examples of evidence  include:

• Eyewitness testimony from people who saw the defendant at a different location during the time of the alleged crime
• Surveillance footage showing the defendant at another place
• Receipts or financial records indicating the defendant’s location at the time of the crime
• Electronic records like GPS data, phone location records, or timestamped emails/texts that verify the defendant’s whereabouts
• Timecards, clock-in/out logs, or supervisor testimony showing the defendant was at work
• Tickets, boarding passes, or rideshare receipts showing the defendant was traveling at the time of the crime
• Timestamped social media posts, check-ins, or live streams proving the defendant’s whereabouts
• Medical records like appointment logs or hospital admission records demonstrating the defendant’s presence at a healthcare facility
• Tickets, sign-in sheets, or other documentation confirming attendance at an event

How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help

An experienced criminal defense attorney can build your alibi defense by:

• Independently investigating the charges against you and your version of events
• Gathering crucial evidence to corroborate your story
• Submitting evidence per California’s legal requirements
• Negotiating with prosecutors to drop the charges without trial
• Presenting your evidence in court if the prosecution moves forward with the case
• Arguing persuasively before a jury to convince them of your version of events

Contact Our Van Nuys Criminal Defense Attorneys Today

Have you been charged with a crime in Van Nuys? If you were somewhere else at the time of the alleged offense, the prosecution may not have a viable case against you. Unfortunately, prosecutors aren’t likely to take you at your word. You will need compelling evidence for an alibi defense.  Contact the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling for a free consultation with an experienced Van Nuys criminal defense lawyer.