Clients frequently ask what they can do to help achieve the best possible outcome in their criminal case. While hiring experienced counsel is critical, defendants also play an active role in how their case is ultimately presented in negotiations or at trial. In some matters, the defendant can make a strong case more difficult—or, as in the example below, can significantly improve their chances by being prepared, cooperative, and credible.
Attorney Christina Williams recently discussed a case involving a young client who exemplified what it means to support one’s own defense.
Background of the Case
The client came to Just Criminal Law while already on probation for a prior matter. During that probation period, he was accused of sexual assault, with the alleged incident occurring approximately six months before charges were filed. Because of the nature of the allegation and the consequences a conviction would carry—including potential sex offender registration—trial became the only realistic option. The client did not qualify for deferred prosecution and faced severe long-term implications if convicted.
The Client’s Role in His Defense
From the beginning, the client treated the process seriously. He appeared at every meeting, arrived prepared, provided requested information, and cooperated fully. Over the course of several meetings, the legal team worked through the events leading up to the allegation and prepared the client for testimony. His attitude remained consistent: he showed up ready to work.
By the time of trial, he understood not only the facts of his case but also how those facts would be challenged and evaluated by the jury. His willingness to participate meaningfully positioned the defense team to put forward a coherent and credible narrative.
Challenges at Trial
The case was complicated by several unfavorable facts. The client was on probation, had been drinking with an underage girl, and admitted to kissing her earlier in the evening. The client’s friend—who later pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting the same girl—accused the client of attempting to assault her as well. That accusation, made shortly before the friend’s sentencing, appeared motivated by retaliation and an attempt to gain leverage with prosecutors.
Defense attorneys often refer to this dynamic as “embracing the facts,” meaning acknowledging unfavorable details rather than pretending they do not exist. In this case, the defense embraced the facts the jury would inevitably hear. The client admitted every action he took, including those that reflected poorly on him. Importantly, he remained consistent with his prior statements to law enforcement.
The Jury’s Assessment
Ultimately, the client’s credibility became central to the trial. When he took the stand, the prosecution was caught off guard by the decision, but his testimony proved critical. The jury believed his version of events and recognized the friend’s accusations as retaliatory. Although the client faced consequences for violating probation due to drinking, he avoided a felony conviction and the lasting penalties that would have accompanied it, including sex offender registration and the loss of civil rights.
Key Takeaways for Defendants
This case illustrates that defendants can materially strengthen their own defense by:
- Treating the case as a serious responsibility.
- Attending all meetings and arriving prepared.
- Cooperating with counsel and providing requested information.
- Maintaining a consistent account of events.
- Accepting responsibility for conduct that cannot be undone.
- Trusting the legal strategy developed by their defense team.
While every case is different, a defendant’s credibility, cooperation, and willingness to engage in the process can directly influence how a jury, prosecutor, or judge views them.
At Just Criminal Law, we work closely with clients to prepare them for each phase of their case and to ensure they understand their role in achieving the best possible outcome.