At Johns, Flaherty & Collins, we don’t often share case studies on our blog. But some outcomes are worth highlighting — not only for the result, but for what they reveal about the strategy, preparation, and advocacy it takes to defend constitutional rights in high-stakes cases. The case below is one such example. It sheds light on how a skilled defense can shape the course of a trial, and why every detail — from early hearings to expert testimony — matters.
Criminal defense attorney David Pierce of Johns, Flaherty & Collins, SC, built a strategy that exposed weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. He used the restraining order hearing to lock in inconsistent testimony, highlighted major investigative gaps by law enforcement, and turned the state’s own DNA experts into witnesses that benefited the defense. Additionally, during jury selection, he openly discussed how to balance listening to accusers with the constitutional requirement of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
After a week-long trial, the jury deliberated for just 40 minutes before returning unanimous not-guilty verdicts on all ten counts.
This case illustrates how smart, creative defense work — from capitalizing on procedural opportunities to reframing scientific evidence — can make a decisive difference when the stakes are highest. It also underscores David’s skill and integrity in defending constitutional rights, even in the most challenging of circumstances.
When freedom and reputation are on the line, detail, preparation, and advocacy can make all the difference.