How to Defend Yourself in Court
This how to document wont guarantee you get out of court when defending yourself, but it is useful to know how to defend yourself in court, here's how
Steps
- Make certified copies of all documents that are relevant to your case - photographs, payment receipts, bills, etc.
- Send these documents to the prosecutor, as he/she will need copies as well (to try and prove their case against you)
- Make sure that you have a good opening and closing statement about what has gone on - begin with things about what you have done well (i.e. made payments on time) and end with things that you could have done better. ALWAYS reiterate the good things.
- Always dress appropriately. Business attire usually works the best.
- If there was an investigation conducted against you, always go to the court house and ask to see the evidence which will be used against you.
- There is no reason to panic if the prosecution has a good case - bring a pad with you and jot down parts of their arguments that you know you can argue with your evidence or points that are completely irrelevant.
- Pick up a book about how court trials work, where everyone sits, etc. It may be useful to know who everyone is.
- Learn about what are you are allowed to object to and on what grounds.
- Be on time!
- If all else fails, request counsel.
Tips
- It could be a good idea to bring a group of character witnesses to court with you, in case you need someone to prove that you are, as you say, a decent person.
- Get some legal advice. Lots of lawyers will give free consultations over the phone or in person if you call and ask ahead of time.
- Get a lawyer. Unless you have the proper training, you have a small chance of winning.
