NRS 199.310: Malicious Prosecution Laws in Nevada—Definition, Penalties, Defense

Malicious prosecution is a serious offense that occurs when someone initiates or encourages legal action against an innocent person without probable cause and with malicious intent. In the state of Nevada, malicious prosecution is governed by NRS 199.310, which outlines the specific elements and penalties associated with this crime.

We’ve all seen this scenario in movies and TV shows – an innocent person is wrongly accused of a crime, arrested, and put on trial. In most cases, the charges are eventually dropped or the person is found not guilty.

But what happens to the person who falsely accused them? This is where NRS 199.310 comes into play.

In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of malicious prosecution, exploring its legal definition, real-life examples, potential penalties, effective defense strategies, and the importance of hiring a skilled criminal defense attorney.

If you find yourself facing malicious prosecution charges in Nevada, it’s vital that you reach out to a knowledgeable attorney who can help protect your rights and fight for your freedom.

The Defenders is a leading criminal defense law firm in Nevada, with a team of experienced attorneys who are well-versed in defending clients facing various criminal charges. We are dedicated to providing top-notch legal representation for our clients and ensuring that justice is served. Don’t wait – contact us now for a free consultation and let us help you navigate through this challenging time.

Defining Malicious Prosecution in Nevada

Malicious prosecution, as outlined in NRS 199.310, occurs when an individual maliciously and without probable cause causes or attempts to cause another person to be arrested or subjected to legal proceedings for a crime they did not commit.

In other words, it involves the intentional pursuit of charges against an innocent person based on malice and the absence of reasonable belief in their guilt.

To fully understand the elements of malicious prosecution, it is essential to break down the legal definition:

Malice: Malice refers to the intent to harm or cause injury to another person. In the context of malicious prosecution, it involves the deliberate initiation or encouragement of legal action against an innocent individual, driven by motives such as revenge, jealousy, or fear.
Probable Cause: Probable cause refers to the reasonable belief that a crime has been committed and that the accused individual is responsible for it. Without probable cause, initiating legal action against someone is unjustified and can lead to malicious prosecution.

Understanding the elements and examples of malicious prosecution is crucial when building a defense strategy or seeking legal advice.

Real-Life Examples of Malicious Prosecution

Real-life examples provide insight into the ways in which malicious prosecution can manifest. While every case is unique, considering these scenarios can help individuals better understand the nature and consequences of this offense.

Examples of behaviors that could constitute malicious prosecution include:

Falsely accusing a former spouse of child abuse during a custody battle to gain sole custody.
Accusing someone of rape out of fear of judgment or consequences.
Making false allegations of physical abuse in a romantic relationship as an act of revenge.
Stealing valuables and accusing someone else of theft to cover up the crime.

Example 1: Custody Battle

In a heated custody battle, one parent falsely accuses the other of child abuse to gain an advantage in court. The accusing parent knows the allegations are baseless but hopes to secure sole custody by tarnishing the other parent’s reputation.

If the accused parent can prove that the accusations were malicious and without probable cause, they may be able to fight against the charges of child abuse and pursue legal action for malicious prosecution.

Example 2: False Rape Accusation

A young woman, fearing the judgment and consequences of her pregnancy, falsely accuses an innocent individual of rape. Her motivation is driven by a desire to avoid the social stigma associated with an unplanned pregnancy.

The falsely accused individual can defend against these charges by presenting evidence that disproves the allegations and demonstrates the malicious intent behind the false accusation.

Example 3: Revenge in a Romantic Relationship

In a relationship marred by infidelity, one partner seeks revenge by falsely accusing the other of physical abuse. The accusing partner’s intention is not to seek justice but to harm the other person’s reputation and potentially gain leverage in the relationship.

The accused individual can mount a defense by presenting evidence contradicting the allegations and proving the malicious intent behind the false accusation.

Example 4: Cover-Up of Theft

In a workplace setting, an employee steals valuable equipment and blames another colleague for the theft. The dishonest employee’s intention is to cover up their crime and shift the blame onto someone else.

If the falsely accused individual can prove that they were not responsible for the theft and that the accusations were made maliciously without probable cause, they may be able to seek legal action for malicious prosecution.

These examples highlight the different contexts in which malicious prosecution can occur. It is essential to consult with a criminal defense attorney who can evaluate the specific details of your case and provide tailored legal guidance.

Penalties for Malicious Prosecution

The severity of the penalties for malicious prosecution in Nevada depends on the nature of the crime for which the innocent person was falsely accused.

If the crime is classified as a felony, the individual responsible for the malicious prosecution may be charged with a category D felony, which carries a sentence of 1 to 4 years in Nevada State Prison and fines of up to $5,000.
In cases where the falsely alleged crime is a gross misdemeanor or misdemeanor, the individual may be charged with a misdemeanor offense. This can lead to a jail term of up to 6 months and fines of up to $1,000.

It’s important to note that in addition to criminal penalties, the alleged victim of malicious prosecution may also have the right to pursue civil action against the person responsible. This can result in the payment of compensatory and punitive damages.

Defenses Against Malicious Prosecution Charges

If you find yourself facing malicious prosecution charges in Nevada, it’s crucial to mount a strong defense to protect your rights and reputation.

Here are some common defenses that your criminal defense attorney may employ:

Absence of Malice

To establish malicious prosecution, the prosecution must prove that you acted with malice. Your defense attorney can argue that your actions were not motivated by malice but were instead driven by good intentions or a legitimate public interest. Demonstrating that you had no ill will towards the accused can help disprove the charge of malicious prosecution.

Existence of Probable Cause

Reporting someone to the police is legal as long as there is probable cause to believe that they committed the alleged crime. Your defense attorney can argue that you had legitimate reasons to believe there was probable cause, meaning you genuinely believed that the accused was guilty based on the available evidence. If the court agrees that probable cause existed, the malicious prosecution charge may be dismissed.

Lack of Criminal Intent

If the person you accused of the crime actually committed the offense, it can be a strong defense against a charge of malicious prosecution. Your defense attorney can argue that your actions were not malicious, but rather an honest attempt to bring a guilty individual to justice. Evidence of the accused’s guilt, such as their subsequent arrest and conviction, can support this defense.

Insufficient Evidence

In any criminal case, the burden of proof lies with the prosecution. If your defense attorney can demonstrate that the state’s evidence is unreliable, erroneous, or insufficient to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, the prosecutor may drop the case due to a lack of proof. Challenging the credibility and reliability of the evidence against you can be a powerful defense strategy.

Why Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney is Crucial

When facing malicious prosecution charges, it’s crucial to enlist the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney. They will guide you through the complex legal process, protect your rights, and build a strong defense on your behalf. Here are some reasons why hiring a criminal defense attorney is crucial:

Expert Legal Knowledge: A criminal defense attorney has extensive knowledge of Nevada’s laws, including those pertaining to malicious prosecution. They understand the intricacies of the legal system and can navigate its complexities to build the strongest possible defense for you. With their expertise, they can identify the most effective strategies to challenge the prosecution’s case
Protection of Your Rights: Being accused of a crime can be a daunting and emotionally taxing experience. A criminal defense attorney is not only your legal advocate but also your emotional support. They will ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process, including your right to a fair trial, the presumption of innocence, and protection against self-incrimination.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering: A skilled criminal defense attorney will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your case. They will gather evidence, review police reports, interview witnesses, and consult with experts if necessary. This investigative work is crucial for uncovering any inconsistencies, weaknesses, or potential defenses that can be used to challenge the prosecution’s case.
Negotiating Plea Agreements: In some cases, it may be in your best interest to negotiate a plea agreement with the prosecution. A criminal defense attorney can help you understand the potential consequences of accepting a plea deal and guide you through the negotiation process. They will work to secure the most favorable terms possible, aiming to minimize the penalties you may face.

Related Offenses

While malicious prosecution is a distinct offense, there are related offenses that may be charged in conjunction with or instead of malicious prosecution. Some of these include:

Perjury: Providing false testimony under oath can be charged as perjury. If the person responsible for the malicious prosecution knowingly lied or provided false information during legal proceedings, they may face perjury charges.
False Reporting: Making false reports to law enforcement is a separate offense. If an individual knowingly provides false information to the police or other authorities, they may be charged with false reporting.
Defamation: If false statements are made about an individual that harm their reputation, they may have grounds to pursue a defamation lawsuit. However, defamation is a civil matter and not a criminal offense.

Facing Malicious Prosecution Charges?

Malicious prosecution is a serious offense in Nevada, carrying significant penalties for those found guilty. If you are facing malicious prosecution charges, it is essential to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can protect your rights, build a strong defense, and guide you through the legal process.

At The Defenders, our team of dedicated and knowledgeable attorneys understands the emotional and legal challenges you may be facing. We are committed to providing you with the strongest defense possible, ensuring that your rights are protected and advocating for your best interests.