Steven Knecht successfully obtained a not guilty verdict in a jury trial of a strangulation charge.

The crime of strangulation is defined as a person who, in a rude, angry, or insolent manner, knowingly or intentionally applies pressure to the throat or neck of another person; obstructs the nose or mouth of the another person; or applies pressure to the torso of another person in a manner that impedes the normal breathing or the blood circulation of the other person commits a Level 6 felony.

In this case, an ex-girlfriend claimed the client grabbed her neck until she passed out. The client testified that he never touched her. The ex-girlfriend had a red mark on her neck but the jury was persuaded that the evidence was insufficient to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

This case demonstrates the importance of a defendant testifying if at all possible in a “she said, he said” criminal case. However, the decision to testify needs to be made with the help of an experienced criminal trial attorney who can properly weigh the benefits and risks of the defendant testifying at trial. An experienced attorney is also necessary to pick the right jury and to then successfully persuade the jury to return a not guilty verdict.

With over 33 years of trial experience, Steven Knecht is familiar with the possible defenses to battery and other criminal charges. Few other attorneys can match his trial experience and knowledge of criminal law and he can use that experience and knowledge to benefit you. If you find yourself having been arrested, you should immediately hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer that you can trust such as Steven Knecht to help you fight the State because you have a lot at stake on the outcome.