Austin Criminal Defense Articles

Preventing against emotionally-driven Judgment

In 2006, there were an estimated 200,000 reports of burglary in the state of Texas. Though burglary should not be tolerated in our society, sometimes the circumstances and perceived motives of the offender become distorted due to emotionally-driven judgment and judicial victimization. It is important that the defense provides a full presentation of both the act and the circumstances under which it was committed. With this approach, a reasonable and fair verdict can be given.

Human psychology lends itself to having dramatic reactions to unfortunate events. A sudden surge of emotion gets in the way of cognitive thought and clouds our ability to adequately asses a situation. As a result the decisions we make are impaired.

A perfect example of this sequence of events is an incident that took place in Pasadena, Texas late last year. A man noticed two men entering his neighbor’s home. In a panic, he phoned the authorities. Assured that the police were on their way he was advised to stay in his home. Unfortunately, his emotions took control and he grabbed his shotgun and killed the two men, while still on the phone with the 911 operator.

The alleged burglars had no trial and no form of due process. It is situations like this that make it important to have a legal process that explores the context of the act, and not simply the act itself.

Ian Inglis, criminal defense attorney, hopes to provide the best possible criminal defensive in any circumstance. Contact him at 512-472-1950 today.