Blame vs Guilt

There is a difference…a VERY BIG difference.

Let’s start with some working definitions here:

Blame is assigning responsibility for a fault or wrong.

Guilt is the fact of having committed a specified or implied offense or crime.

As we navigate the criminal justice system together, understanding the difference  – and where it comes into play – has a big affect on your life and your freedom. Luckily, you have Guss Markwell  at your side to protect your rights and to make your case.

In general, blame comes into play when the Police are involved in putting together a case. They don’t have anything to do with guilt, which is in the realm of the Prosecutor. The Police gather evidence, interview witnesses and suspects, and follow leads – all in the service of establishing blame. Once they feel as though they have enough to blame a crime on someone, they go to the Prosecutor to see if they have enough evidence to charge crime. This is the critical moment when blame leads to potential guilt.

Ideally, you’ve called us in before blame has been determined and you haven’t spoken to the Police without us present. (See When should you talk to the Police without us (your attorney)?) The goal is always to keep the Police from blaming you for the crime. If we can do that, it’s a huge win…and a major cost savings.

Because the threshold to determine blame is so low, more often than not, things move on to the potential guilt phase. Guilt is where the Prosecutor comes into to play. They work to take the evidence and the blame established by the Police and create a case against you to present to a jury in court. I have extensive experience in every level of criminal prosecution and will be with every step of the way to help mitigate the evidence and help the jury see that you are not responsible – beyond any reasonable doubt – for the incident in question.

Here’s where we analyze the evidence and create a narrative story that explains either your innocence or your lack of guilt. My job is not to judge you or to even think you’re guilty of whatever it is that you’re accused of doing. My job is to protect your rights and at least level the playing field or, hopefully, turn it in your favor.

What can you do to most help yourself in this situation? First, keep your mouth shut. Second, call Markwell Law. Third, don’t hide anything from me. Assume that the Prosecution will find out everything from your and your present, so give yourself a fair chance by being completely upfront with me.

Once we’re involved, you gain back at least some control over what happens to you and how hard the situation becomes. You can’t handle this on your own. This is beyond the ability of any regular individual. Even another attorney, when faced with criminal charges, knows that they can’t handle it on their own.

I started my career in criminal defense law and I’ve handled thousands of cases, ranging from DUI/DWI to sexual offenses to first degree murder…and everything in-between. Your case will not shock or surprise me and I will rigorously and vigorously defend your rights to due process and a fair trial, should it go that far.

I’m Guss Markwell. I should be your attorney…and your first call.

Free Initial Consultations

If you are facing serious criminal charges, you need a diligent advocate in your corner. I am available to discuss your situation toll-free at 636-486-1093, or you can send me an e-mail. I keep regular office hours in St. Charles County.

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