There are many people who have little experience with the law. As such, they may not fully understand all their options, should they find themselves facing legal charges. Some people may even assume that a conviction of charges is the end of the criminal justice process. However, it is often appropriate to file an appeal following a conviction. In fact, the Missouri Supreme Court recently overturned one man’s conviction on assault and armed criminal action charges.
The man was originally convicted in 2015 regarding an incident that reportedly happened at a bar in 2014. According to reports, the now 38-year-old man was involved in a knife attack that left one man paralyzed from his neck down. The alleged victim reportedly passed away due to complications from his injuries after the man was convicted of charges related to the incident.
However, the man appealed the conviction. He argued that the circuit judge made an error by declining to present instructions regarding self-defense to the jury; prosecutors argued that it was not necessary to present these instructions, as the defendant denied stabbing the alleged victim. The Missouri Supreme Court recently ruled in favor of the man, overturning the conviction and sending the case to the circuit court for a new trial.
No person is infallible, and even experienced judges can make mistakes or misinterpret the law. As such, it is important for people facing criminal charges in Missouri and across the country — including accusations of assault — to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on their side. Such a professional can recognize a potential error or unlawful treatment and take appropriate action.