Forensic Science
Jim has worked frequently and extensively in cases where scientific evidence is crucial to the defense. In one Oklahoma appeal case which Jim won on appeal , freeing an innocent man, Jim utilized a DNA expert to demonstrate that State Bureau of Investigation crime scene analysts mishandled the crime scene and made statements as expert witnesses that were insupportable by scientific testing of the evidence. That client is a free man as the State did not retry him.
Jim has worked with numerous experts in the field of psychology, as well. In a death penalty case, Jim and his expert were able to show that a confession was obtained in violation of his constitutional rights to remain silent, to have the assistance of counsel, and to not be coerced into continuing a police interview. Accordingly, that client received a term of 45 years rather than the death penalty.
Capital Appeals
Jim has made five oral arguments in death penalty cases in Oklahoma. Two clients ultimately had their death sentences reduced to life without parole, based in part or in full on Jim’s work: Osbaldo Torres and Lloyd Mollett. One client died in prison of natural causes, and one received a reversal and new trial, but was again sentenced to death. The fifth client received a full new trial because of errors that Jim initially raised.
State Court Criminal Practice and Related Areas
Jim handles the defense against any type of criminal charge, including, but not limited to:
- Homicide
- Drug offenses
- Crimes Against Property (Burglary, Theft)
- Crimes Against Persons (Assault, Maiming)
- Conspiracy
- Arson
- Sex Offender Registration
- Child Sexual Abuse
- Illegal Searches and Seizures