Los Angeles Violent Crime Lawyer

Common Types of Violent Crimes

Violent crimes in Los Angeles often involve complex factors that require an intricate understanding of both legal statutes and local judicial practices. Our team is well-versed in dealing with these multifaceted cases, having navigated numerous defense scenarios involving various violent offenses. Each category of violent crime presents unique challenges and requires a bespoke legal strategy to mitigate the impact of charges.

Key Practice Areas:

• Assault - This may be described as an attempt to violence or harm against another person. Separate from battery, which could include the act of harm itself, assault charges require only an attempt and actual or apparent ability to carry out such an attempt – even if the act is not carried out.
• Battery - With battery, a defendant may face misdemeanor or felony charges for willfully and unlawfully using force or violence against another person. Unwanted or offensive physical contact may also be considered battery, and a defendant may face harsh penalties.
• Attempted Murder - Attempting to commit a crime is unlawful, even if the attempt is unsuccessful. This applies to murder, as well as other crimes. With attempted murder, a defendant may face 15 years or more in prison, depending on the circumstances surrounding the alleged attempt.
• Kidnapping - Taking and/or holding another person against his or her will is the general description of kidnapping, though there are different types of criminal charges associated with this offense. In most cases, a kidnapping conviction will count as a strike on a defendant's record, making it crucial to attack such charges.
• Manslaughter - A lesser charge than murder, manslaughter is a crime that involves killing another person without malice aforethought or in other circumstances not equivalent to murder and causing another's death in an auto accident. At the same time, DUI is an example of when manslaughter charges may apply.
• Murder - The most serious violent crime a person may be accused of committing, murder, is defined in California Penal Code §187(a) as "the unlawful killing of a human being or fetus with malice aforethought." Malice aforethought may include acts stemming from the specific intention to kill another person as well as a wanton disregard for human life.
• Terrorist Threats - A terrorist threat may be defined as making a threat of violence or harm with the intent of causing public panic or of causing fear or intimidation in the minds of the victim/s. Verbal, written, or physical threats may apply under this law, and a defendant may face misdemeanor or felony charges.

Potential Penalties for Violent Charges

Penalties for violent crimes in California vary depending on the severity of the offense, prior criminal history, and aggravating factors. Common consequences may include:

• Imprisonment: Violent crimes often carry state prison sentences ranging from a few years to life imprisonment, depending on the charge.
• Fines: Courts may impose significant fines, sometimes exceeding tens of thousands of dollars.
• Probation or Parole: In certain cases, offenders may receive probation or supervised parole in addition to, or instead of, prison time.
• Restitution: Offenders may be required to compensate victims for medical bills, lost wages, or property damage.
• Permanent Criminal Record: A conviction can have lasting effects on employment, housing, and civil rights.

Legal Defenses to Violent Crimes

Defending against violent crime charges requires careful examination of the evidence and circumstances. Possible legal defenses include:

• Self-Defense: If you were protecting yourself or others from immediate harm, this may justify your actions under California law.
• Mistaken Identity: Errors in witness testimony or law enforcement identification can sometimes prove that you were not involved in the crime.
• Lack of Intent: Certain violent crimes require proof that you intended to commit the act. Demonstrating lack of intent can be a strong defense.
• Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. If evidence is weak or improperly obtained, your attorney may be able to have charges reduced or dismissed.
• Coercion or Duress: If you were forced to commit a crime under immediate threat of serious harm, this may serve as a defense.

Our Los Angeles violent crime  will investigate the facts, interview witnesses, challenge improper procedures, and build a robust defense tailored to your unique case.

Violent Crime FAQs

Q: What should I do if I’m arrested for a violent crime?

A: Remain calm, do not resist arrest, and exercise your right to remain silent. Contact a qualified Los Angeles violent crime lawyer as soon as possible.

Q: Can a violent crime charge be reduced?

A: Yes, many charges can be reduced through plea negotiations or by challenging the evidence, but the success depends on the circumstances of the case.

Q: Will I go to jail immediately after being charged?

A: Some offenses may result in pretrial detention, especially if the court considers you a flight risk or a danger to the community. A lawyer can petition for bail or release conditions.

Q: How long does a violent crime case take?

A: Case timelines vary widely, from several months to multiple years, depending on the complexity, court schedule, and plea negotiations.

Q: Do I need a lawyer even if I think the case is minor?

A: Absolutely. Even “minor” charges can result in serious consequences, including permanent criminal records or probation. Having an attorney protects your rights and future.

Contact Our Los Angeles Violent Crime Attorney Today

Choosing the right violent crime lawyer may mean the difference between freedom and spending a large portion of your future behind bars. A skilled attorney may be able to get far better results than you could have imagined possible.

At Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners, we have over 75 years of combined experience to bring to your defense. We are excellent negotiators and are always prepared to go to trial when necessary to seek a not-guilty verdict for our clients.

Contact Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners today to schedule a meeting with our violent crimes lawyer in Los Angeles! Dial (213) 481-6811!