Many types of criminal cases permit for the affirmative defense of self-defense. However, just because one may have a viable defense (such as self-defense) that alone does not mean that a jury will necessarily acquit or otherwise find a person ‘not guilty’. A man in Everett recently found that out the hard way when a jury didn’t find his actions acceptable in light of the situation he faced.
In that case, the man says he was in fear for his safety after an aggressive driver was driving so close to him that he was rear-ended. After the ‘fender-bender’ – claiming that he couldn’t predict what the other driver was going to do – the man exited his car and shot the other man in the head while he sat seat-belted in his vehicle. The jury didn’t buy the shooter’s reasoning and quickly convicted him of second degree murder for the 2019 road rage incident. He now faces 15-22 years in prison for his actions.
The case evidences why it is always best to ensure that an affirmative defense is truly a viable one before raising it up the proverbial flagpole. In short, just because one may think their actions are justified, others may not … it is always in the eye(s) of the beholder.
If you or a loved one is facing a criminal charge (whether it be in municipal, district our superior court), don’t hesitate to hire a qualified Seattle Criminal Defense Lawyer. The Seattle Criminal Defense Attorneys that make up the criminal defense team of SQ Attorneys are highly qualified and reputable Seattle criminal attorneys that are dedicated to providing top notch, aggressive representation for those arrested or charged for crime all across Western Washington and the Greater Puget Sound region. The team creates success by working with law enforcement and the prosecuting attorney’s office to ensure that all facts and circumstances related to the allegations are considered in creating the fairest, most equitable and just resolution possible in light of all the surrounding circumstances of the given case. So, whether you are cited with an infraction or arrested and/or charged with misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor or a felony, protect yourself … call SQ Attorneys at (206) 441-0900.
