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.