Defend Against Violent Crime Charges in Los Angeles
Skilled Legal Defense for Violent Crime Accusations in LA
Violent crime accusations can throw your life into chaos. You will be the target of a law enforcement investigation and potential charges that could lead to imprisonment, hefty fines, probation, loss of reputation, and financial hardship. The legal process within the criminal court system can be long, uncertain, and emotionally draining. To give you the best chance of a favorable outcome, you will need a criminal defense lawyer who can go toe to toe with aggressive prosecutors.
At Stein & Markus, we put highly-qualified defenders on your side, including a former prosecutor who knows how the other side operates and can outthink their tactics. With decades of experience to draw upon, our team can help you meet the demands of the legal process while protecting your rights and strategizing for optimum results.
Call Stein & Markus today at (562) 512-7030 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our violent crimes attorney in Los Angeles!
Understanding Violent Crime Charges in LA
Violent crimes can be broadly categorized into two groups:
Major Felony Violent Crimes and Consequences
Felony Violent Crimes are the most serious type and can result in imprisonment for up to and including life. Examples of felony violent crimes include:
- Domestic violence
- Aggravated assault
- Battery
- Rape
- Kidnapping
- Homicide, including murder, attempted murder, and manslaughter
- Mayhem
- Arson
- Carjacking
- Extortion
- Robbery
- Burglary
If you are convicted, a permanent criminal record can make future employment, housing, and other life opportunities difficult, and you will lose your gun rights.
Impact of Misdemeanor Violent Crimes in California
Misdemeanor violent crimes are less serious but can still result in jail time and/or large fines. Examples of misdemeanor violent crimes include:
- Assault
- Battery
- Domestic violence
- Inciting a riot
- Stalking
- False imprisonment
- Extortion
- Vehicular manslaughter
Misdemeanor violent crimes are considered wobblers, which means they can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances. As a result, if you are facing charges for a violent crime, it is critical to contact an attorney as soon as possible.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ATTEMPTED & CONSUMMATED CRIMES?
Attempted crimes are criminal acts that do not result in the intended consequences. For example, a defendant may attempt to commit battery, but the victim does not sustain any injuries. Because the attempted crime did not result in the intended consequences, the defendant cannot be convicted of the attempted crime.
However, a defendant may be convicted of an attempted crime if the defendant's actions resulted in the intended consequences. For example, if a defendant attempts to kidnap a victim and the victim is restrained, the defendant may be convicted of kidnapping.
WHAT IS THE MINIMUM SENTENCE FOR A CALIFORNIA VIOLENT CRIME?
The minimum sentence for a violent crime in California is two, three, or four years in prison. In addition, if a defendant is convicted of a felony violent crime, the minimum sentence is five years in prison. The minimum sentence may be increased if the victim sustained serious bodily injury or if the defendant is a repeat offender.
The maximum sentence for a violent crime is life in prison. In addition, a defendant may be required to pay hefty fines. For example, battery is a wobbler offense that is punishable by up to $2,000 in fines. In addition, a battery that results in serious bodily injury may be punishable by up to $10,000 in fines.
Defenses Against Violent Crime Charges
Our experienced legal team at Stein & Markus employs a range of strategic defenses tailored to the specifics of each case. Some effective defenses against violent crime charges include:
- Self-Defense: Establishing that the accused acted in self-defense is a powerful defense strategy in cases involving assault, battery, or even homicide.
- Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that the accused did not intend to commit a violent crime can be a crucial defense strategy.
- Mistaken Identity: Challenging the accuracy of eyewitness identification or presenting evidence of mistaken identity can be a compelling defense in many cases.
- Insufficient Evidence: We meticulously examine the evidence against our clients, seeking weaknesses or inconsistencies that could undermine the prosecution's case.
- False Accusations: In cases of domestic violence or other personal disputes, we work diligently to expose false accusations and protect the rights of the accused.
HOW DOES THE PROSECUTOR PROVE A VIOLENT CRIME?
To convict a defendant of a violent crime, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant is guilty. The prosecution must prove two main elements: the actus reus and the mens rea.
Actus reus refers to the physical action that constitutes the crime. For example, when a defendant commits battery, the actus reus is physical contact with the victim.
The mens rea element refers to the defendant's criminal intent or the state of mind required under the law that must be shown to secure a conviction.
The prosecution must prove that the defendant intended to commit the crime and knew that their actions would cause harm to the victim. The defendant's actions must directly cause the victim's injuries. For example, if a defendant intentionally shoots a victim and the victim is injured, the defendant's actions are the direct cause of the victim's injuries. However, if a defendant throws a rock at a passing car, which results in injuries, the defendant's actions are not the direct cause.
Contact Our Los Angeles Violent Crimes Attorney Today
At Stein & Markus, we relentlessly advocate for the rights of individuals accused of violent crimes in Los Angeles. Our legal team combines expertise, dedication, and a commitment to justice to craft robust defenses tailored to the unique circumstances of each case. If you or a loved one is facing charges related to violent crimes, contact us today for a confidential consultation. We stand ready to fight for your rights and navigate the complexities of the California legal system on your behalf.
Contact Stein & Markus today to meet with our violent crimes lawyer in Los Angeles!
Why Choose Stein & Markus?
What Makes Us Different
-
We Provide Free ConsultationsTalk through all of your legal options during a free consultation.
-
Work with a Former ProsecutorOur prosecutor turned defense attorney is ready to protect you!
-
Hablamos EspañolWork with a criminal defense attorney who speaks your language.
-
24/7 Help AvailableWhenever you need our lawyers, we're here to help you.
"Amazing work, I wouldn’t trust anyone else."
- Suzi S.