October 7, 2025 By Paul Wallin

When the Prosecutor Screws Up You Need to Hire an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer to Help You Get Your Loved One Out of Prison

Imagine spending more than four decades behind bars for a crime you did not commit, only to discover that key evidence in your case had been hidden from the defense. That’s exactly what happened to Guy Scott, who was recently released from prison after 44 years because his murder conviction was tainted by prosecutorial misconduct.

This case highlights a hard truth: when prosecutors make mistakes—or worse, intentionally conceal evidence—the consequences can be devastating. Innocent people can spend their entire lives in prison unless an experienced criminal defense attorney fights to uncover the truth.

Our experienced criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich can guide you through the legal process. Call Wallin & Klarich today toll-free at (877) 466-5245 for your free consultation with one of our defense attorneys near you.

What Went Wrong in This Case?

Back in 1981, Scott was convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison. But critical evidence that could have helped his defense was never disclosed. Informants had told investigators that the state’s key witness admitted to using the knife in the killing, but that information was buried for decades.

Instead, the prosecution pressured its main witness into testifying against Scott, creating the impression that he was guilty while hiding evidence that pointed elsewhere. Only when this information finally came to light—more than 40 years later—was Scott’s conviction reduced, making him eligible for release.

Why Prosecutorial Misconduct Matters

Prosecutors are required by law to turn over evidence that could help the defense. When they fail to do so, it undermines the entire justice system. In Scott’s case, the misconduct cost him his freedom for most of his life. Sadly, this is not the only case where prosecutors have been accused of hiding evidence, especially when jailhouse informants are involved.

How Wallin & Klarich Can Help

If your loved one is in prison because of mistakes or misconduct by the prosecution, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who knows how to fight back. At Wallin & Klarich, we have over 40 years of experience exposing prosecutorial errors and protecting our clients’ rights.

Our attorneys know how to:

  • Investigate whether evidence was improperly concealed
  • File motions to overturn wrongful convictions
  • Appeal cases where misconduct occurred
  • Argue for reduced charges or immediate release when the prosecution’s case falls apart

Contact Wallin & Klarich Today

The story of Guy Scott proves how high the stakes are when prosecutors fail to follow the rules. Without strong legal representation, wrongful convictions can remain hidden for decades. If you or your loved one is serving time in prison and you believe the prosecution may have withheld evidence or acted improperly, it may not be too late to fight for justice.

At Wallin & Klarich, we have offices all over Southern California: Irvine, Pasadena, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Torrance, Victorville, and Anaheim. Additionally, our law firm can handle many types of cases statewide.

Discover how our team can assist you. Contact us today, toll-free at (877) 466-5245 for a free consultation with a skilled defense attorney near you.

Paul Wallin

AUTHOR: Paul Wallin

Paul Wallin is one of the most highly respected attorneys in Southern California. His vast experience, zealous advocacy for his clients and extensive knowledge of many areas of the law make Mr. Wallin a premiere Southern California attorney. Mr. Wallin founded Wallin & Klarich in 1981. As the senior partner of Wallin & Klarich, Mr. Wallin has been successfully representing clients for more than 30 years. Clients come to him for help in matters involving assault and battery, drug crimes, juvenile crimes, theft, manslaughter, sex offenses, murder, violent crimes, misdemeanors and felonies. Mr. Wallin also helps clients with family law matters such as divorce and child custody.

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