What is entrapment in criminal defense law?

Entrapment in criminal defense law is a defense used when someone has been tricked or coerced into committing a crime. In California, a defendant can establish entrapment when their criminal conduct was induced by a public officer or when the defendant has been subjected to "overbearing pressure" or "persistent soliciting" by a public officer. Entrapment is a complete defense - meaning that it can be used to completely exonerate a defendant from criminal liability. In a legal sense, entrapment involves public officers setting up an environment that is conducive to criminal activity. Officers may offer fake jobs, or give the defendant the false impression that they are safe from legal consequences should they commit the crime. Officers can also entrap individuals by encouraging them to commit the crime or by providing them with the resources to do so. The extent to which entrapment is recognized and accepted in criminal defense law depends on local laws. In the state of California, entrapment is recognized and established by the legal standard of "subjecting (an individual) to overbearing pressure." This standard is quite high, and it may be difficult to establish entrapment in a court of law. It is important to consult with an experienced criminal defense lawyer if you believe that you have been the victim of entrapment.

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