Violent crimes are among the most serious offenses in California, and they can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines. If you have been accused, it's essential to understand the nature of the charges and possible defenses. This blog provides an overview of violent crime, the distinct types of violent crimes, and their potential penalties.
To discuss your Los Angeles case with Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP, call (800) 462-7160 or contact us online.
What Are Violent Crimes?
Violent crimes include a broad range of offenses involving using or threatening force against another person. These crimes are taken very seriously. A conviction can have severe consequences, including long-term imprisonment and hefty fines.
Some of the most common violent crime charges include the following:
- Murder: Murder is the most severe violent crime. It involves intentionally killing another person. Murder charges can be either first-degree or second-degree, depending on the circumstances of the crime.
- Assault: Assault involves the use of force or the threat of force against another person. Assault charges can be simple or aggravated, depending on the level of harm caused to the victim.
- Battery: Battery includes intentionally using force against another person and causing bodily injury. Like assault charges, battery charges can be either simple or aggravated.
- Domestic violence: Domestic violence charges arise when someone harms or threatens harm against a family member or romantic partner. The offense can be either a misdemeanor or a felony.
Examples of other violent crime charges are robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping.
The Importance of Understanding Violent Crime Charges and Possible Defenses
Understanding violent crime charges and possible defenses is crucial because it can help you make informed decisions about your case. By understanding the nature of the charges, you can work with your lawyer to develop a strong defense strategy to help seek a favorable result.
Possible Defenses to Violent Crime Charges
Several defenses can be used to fight violent crime charges.
Some of the most common include the following:
- Self-defense: Self-defense involves the use of force to protect oneself from harm. To use this defense, you must demonstrate that you had a reasonable belief that you were facing an immediate threat of injury and that the force you used was necessary to safeguard yourself.
- Defense of others: Defense of others is similar to self-defense, but it involves using force to protect someone else from harm.
- Mistaken identity: Mistaken identity is a defense that shows that you were not the person who committed the crime.
Possible Outcomes of a Violent Crime Conviction
The potential penalties for a violent crime conviction vary depending on the severity of the crime and your criminal history.
Below are some possible consequences:
- Imprisonment: Depending on the severity of the crime, you could be sentenced to years or even life in prison.
- Fines: You could be fined thousands of dollars or more.
- Other penalties: Other penalties could include probation, community service, and restitution.
In addition to these immediate consequences, a violent crime conviction can have long-term impacts. A criminal record can make it challenging to find employment or housing and limit your opportunities in other areas of your life.
Contact Our Team Today
Understanding violent crimes and possible defenses is crucial if facing these charges. A criminal defense lawyer can develop a strong strategy and pursue a just outcome. Seek legal representation and take steps to protect your rights and your future.
Schedule a consultation with Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP by calling (800) 462-7160 today. We fight for the people of Los Angeles.