Violent Crimes Lawyers

Violent Crimes Defense Across the United States

Violent crime charges carry some of the harshest penalties in the American legal system. A conviction can mean decades in prison, lifetime registration requirements, and permanent damage to your reputation. Hiring a defense lawyer early gives you the strongest chance of protecting your rights and building an effective defense strategy.

What Violent Crimes Law Covers

Violent crimes include any offense involving force or the threat of force against another person. Common charges include assault and battery, domestic violence, armed robbery, manslaughter, and murder. Weapons offenses — such as illegal possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime — often accompany these charges.

Federal violent crime charges apply when offenses cross state lines, occur on federal property, or involve specific statutes like carjacking or bank robbery. State-level charges vary widely in their classification and sentencing ranges. Some states treat certain assaults as misdemeanors while others classify similar conduct as felonies.

When to Hire a Violent Crimes Lawyer

• You have been arrested or learn that you are under investigation for any violent offense
• Police want to question you about an incident involving injury or threats of harm
• You face domestic violence allegations that could result in a protective order and criminal charges
• A prior conviction elevates your current charge under habitual offender or "three strikes" laws
• You acted in self-defense but were still charged by prosecutors

How the Criminal Defense Process Works

After an arrest, you'll appear at an arraignment where bail is set and formal charges are read. Your attorney will begin reviewing evidence, including police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and forensic results. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, roughly 90% of federal criminal cases and a similar share of state cases are resolved through plea agreements rather than trial.

Pre-trial motions can suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge the credibility of witness identifications. If your case goes to trial, the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt — the highest standard of proof in American law.

How Sentencing and Penalties Are Determined

• Severity of the offense — first-degree murder carries life sentences or the death penalty in some jurisdictions, while simple assault may result in months of jail time
• Extent of injury to the victim, including whether a weapon was used
• Defendant's prior criminal history and whether mandatory minimum sentences apply
• Aggravating factors such as offenses against children, elderly victims, or law enforcement officers
• Mitigating factors including mental health conditions, lack of prior record, or evidence of provocation

Frequently Asked Questions

Can violent crime charges be reduced or dismissed?

Yes. Prosecutors may reduce charges through plea negotiations, especially when evidence is weak or procedural errors occurred during the arrest. A skilled defense attorney can also present mitigating evidence that leads to lesser charges. Dismissals happen when constitutional rights were violated during the investigation.

What is the difference between assault and aggravated assault?

Simple assault generally involves threats or minor physical contact and is often charged as a misdemeanor. Aggravated assault involves serious bodily injury or the use of a deadly weapon, which elevates the charge to a felony. Felony assault convictions typically carry prison sentences of two to twenty years depending on the jurisdiction.