Having the right criminal defense could mean the difference between imprisonment and freedom. The criminal law attorneys of MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott, P.C., in Middletown, NY, have been serving the Hudson Valley region since 1885. Below, they discuss three defenses that could make a world of difference for your case.

1. Assert Your Innocence

If you are not guilty of the crime of which you are accused and have sufficient evidence to back up your claim, pleading innocent may be your strongest option. Your criminal law attorney will design a legal strategy that highlights your innocence, but demonstrating proof of your innocence will be the most compelling argument in your favor. Producing credible witnesses and an alibi can help substantiate your claim.

2. Claim Self-Defense

Self-defense is a viable plea if evidence shows you committed the crime in question. You will have to show the court that you, a loved one, or a piece of property were directly threatened and that you acted in self-defense. Typically, specific dangers must be present for this plea to be considered legally justifiable. Your criminal attorney will help you determine if this is the right path to pursue.

3. Plead Insanity

An insanity plea is sometimes entered in a case that resulted in murder or another violent crime. Insanity must be proven through expert testimony by psychological professionals who can assert you meet the relevant criteria. A plea of insanity may not get you out of punishment, however; you could be sentenced to a psychiatric facility instead of prison. This isn't an option for every case, and your attorney can let you know whether it is a viable possibility.

Knowing the defenses that are available to you can have an impact on the trajectory of your case; discuss your options with a criminal attorney right away. Contact MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott, P.C., to schedule a consultation with a criminal law attorney; they also offer representation in corporate law, elder law, and personal injury cases. Call (845) 343-3000 or connect with them through their website today.