The Admissibility of Polygraph Results in Oklahoma
Understanding Polygraph Tests and Their Admissibility in Oklahoma
This is Tulsa attorney James Wirth. Lie detector tests, also known as polygraph tests, are a common tool used by law enforcement to investigate criminal cases. However, in the state of Oklahoma, the results of these tests are inadmissible for any purpose in criminal trials. This means that even if the defendant passes or fails a polygraph test, the results cannot be used as evidence in court.
Recent cases have highlighted the issue of polygraph tests and their admissibility in Oklahoma courts. In the case of Sean Lee McDaniel v. State of Oklahoma F-2017-357, the defendant filed an appeal after information related to a polygraph examination was heard by the jury during the trial. The Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals ruled that talking about or using polygraph results is an error, even if both parties agree to it.
The Burden of Proof in Harmless Error Analysis
While the court found polygraph results to be an error, they also stressed the importance of harmless error analysis. This analysis places the burden of proof on the defendant to show that the error had a substantial influence on the outcome of the case. In the case of Sean Lee McDaniel, the defense was unable to meet this burden and the conviction remained.
It is important for individuals facing criminal charges in Oklahoma to understand the limitations and restrictions surrounding using polygraph tests. Consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney can provide valuable insight and guidance throughout the legal process.
Schedule a Consultation with an Experienced Attorney
If you are facing criminal charges or are seeking to file an appeal, it is crucial to have a skilled attorney on your side. At Wirth Law Office, we provide personalized and compassionate legal representation to clients throughout the state. To schedule an initial strategy session and discuss your case with an experienced Oklahoma criminal defense lawyer, visit us online at makelaweasy.com.