What Happens If a Confession Was Forced?
When a law enforcement officer interrogates a person, the assumption is the process happens to get to the truth of the matter. While this is usually the situation, there are times when an interrogator is so convinced of someone’s guilt, they are pushing for a confession rather than more facts.
People have been convicted due to forced confessions that have been false. If you or someone you love was coerced into a forced confession, you need to speak to an attorney right away. A Baltimore criminal lawyer can help.
False Confessions Due to Fake Information
It is illegal to obtain a confession through violence. For this reason, psychological tactics may be used. Law enforcement may lead a person to believe that confessing is the best path for them given the circumstances. This is the main course of coercion as threats and promises are not permitted.
The following are types of pressure used to coerce confessions:
- Presenting questions in a leading way.
- Lying about what types of evidence have been collected.
- Creating an environment of exhaustion and fatigue due to prolonged conversations.
- Use of unreliable tests.
While these tactics are used in a variety of situations with a large scope of individuals, often underage individuals and people with mental issues can be even more susceptible to forced coercion tactics.
Legal Help Is Essential
When law enforcement officials lead a person to think it would be in their best interest to confess, they can not always be believed. An individual needs a Baltimore criminal lawyer to fight for their individual rights.
For example, a police officer can not promise an individual they will be charged with a lesser crime if they confess. They can not legally make that happen. For a deal to be made it has to be done with the State’s Attorney’s Office. While there are times when a law officer is genuinely trying to be helpful, having an attorney is the safest way to cover a person’s interests.
Coerced confessions can be difficult to prove, but there are options. For instance, if there is not enough evidence to prove the case, or if there are witnesses that give a different version of the story, a defendant may be able to overcome a forced confession. In short, if there is nothing to back up the confessions, such as corroborating evidence, it may be possible to show the confession was coerced.
When you work with attorneys who have years of experience, it is possible you can walk away from a situation with a reduction in charges or establishing your innocence. Knowledgeable lawyers do this by analyzing evidence, preparing testimony, filing motions when beneficial, and negotiating with other legal professionals. A lawyer prioritizes you and your best interests.
Were you coerced into a confession in Maryland? You need to consult a criminal lawyer immediately to build a strategy to fight for your rights. Contact the legal team at Iamele & Iamele, LLP to understand your options. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.
https://www.iamelelawfirmbaltimore.com/legal-rights-and-talking-to-police/
