December 22, 2022
Discovery is the process in a criminal case where both the prosecution and the defense are able to request and review evidence related to the case. The purpose of discovery is to allow both sides to prepare for trial and to ensure that each side has access to all relevant information.
Don’t face a judge or jury for a criminal charge without a Criminal Defense Lawyer Houston TX you can trust. Contact The Napier Law Firm today at 713-470-4097 to schedule your free case evaluation.
Evidence from the State of Texas
In Texas, the Michael Morton Act is a law that was enacted in 2013 to improve the discovery process in criminal cases. The act is named after Michael Morton, who was wrongfully convicted of murder and spent 25 years in prison before being exonerated in 2011.
One of the key provisions of the Michael Morton Act is the requirement that the prosecution must disclose all relevant evidence to the defense, including exculpatory evidence (evidence that could be favorable to the defendant). This is known as “open file discovery.” Under the act, the prosecution is required to disclose all relevant evidence to the defense within 10 days of the defendant’s request, unless the court orders a different timeline.
The Michael Morton Act also includes provisions that allow the defense to request additional evidence from the prosecution, such as police reports, witness statements, and other materials. In addition, the act allows the defense to request that certain evidence be preserved, such as physical evidence or electronic data.
The Michael Morton Act has had a significant impact on the criminal justice system in Texas, helping to ensure that defendants have access to all relevant evidence and improving the fairness of the trial process. If you have been charged with a crime in Texas, it is important to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you understand your rights and ensure that you have access to all relevant evidence in your case.
In summary, discovery is the process in a criminal case where both the prosecution and the defense are able to request and review evidence related to the case. The Michael Morton Act is a law in Texas that was enacted to improve the discovery process in criminal cases, including the requirement that the prosecution must disclose all relevant evidence to the defense, including exculpatory evidence. The act also includes provisions that allow the defense to request additional evidence from the prosecution and to request that certain evidence be preserved.
Contact A Houston Lawyer For Criminal Charges Today
If you have been charged with a crime in Texas, it is important to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you understand your rights and ensure that you have access to all relevant evidence in your case. First-time criminal offenders are recommended to consult a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Your attorney can assert your rights, help prove your innocence, and potentially, get your charges decreased or dismissed.
Contact The Napier Law Firm today to schedule your free initial consultation for first-time criminal offenses in Houston; learn more about the firm here. We also serve Harris County, Montgomery County, Houston County, Galveston County, Conroe County, and Fort Bend County.