Miltenberger Law Offices

If you’re the defendant during a criminal trial, you may be tempted to contact one of your witnesses to speak with them about their testimony. After all, it seems like it would be a great way to sway things in your favor, and you would think that there’s no harm in contacting someone you already know about your situation. Unfortunately, that is always a bad idea that will only hurt your chances in court. Here’s why you should avoid contacting witnesses at all costs.

Witness Tampering

Contacting a witness during a criminal trial is a great way to be charged with witness tampering. Witness tampering is a criminal act in which a defendant or someone acting on the defendant’s behalf attempts to influence a witness’s testimony. This can mean simply speaking to a friendly witness and asking them to speak favorably of you on the witness stand, or it can mean attempting to intimidate a witness into not speaking out against you. Witness tampering carries strict penalties that include up to four years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. 

What to Do Instead

If you’re on trial, never speak to a witness about the case alone. If a witness is a close friend or family member who would normally speak with you, never bring up any details about your trial. If you must speak with a witness, make sure that your lawyer is with you during the conversation. In fact, it’s always best to allow your lawyer to establish contact with anyone involved in your case. That is your lawyer’s job, so leave everything related to the trial to them. Contact your lawyer as soon as you are charged with a crime, and do not attempt to take anything into your own hands no matter how certain you are that it will help you in court.

If you do find yourself charged with a crime in Nebraska and you are in need of a defense attorney, contact Cody Miltenberger at Miltenberger Law Offices. Cody Miltenberger has over 10 years of criminal trial experience, especially with DUI, domestic violence, and drug charges. Cody is a highly respected attorney who prides himself on being available to his clients at all times and is always prepared to defend them no matter what charges they may face. Contact his law office today to schedule an appointment.