Violent crimes include a very wide range of offenses that include acts resulting in extreme physical harm but also mere threats of physical harm. Conviction of a violent crime can carry severe penalties, including life-long loss of some of your most basic rights as an American citizen. There are many possible defenses against violent crime charges. In many cases those who are charged with violent crimes were acting in self defense at the time or had been the victim of violent acts committed by the other person. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you identify and understand your possible defenses.

Types of Violent Crimes

There are many types of violent crimes including:

• Murder
• Manslaughter
• Assault
• Battery
• Domestic violence
• Rape
• Armed robbery
• Mugging
• Hate crimes
• Vehicular manslaughter
• Kidnapping
• Terroristic threats

Assault and Battery

Charges of assault and battery can be very confusing. They often run together, but they are two very different charges.

Assault is the one that most people do not understand. Assault charges can come in degrees defined by the level of bodily harm inflicted. For instance, first degree assault would mean intentionally causing severe bodily harm, while third degree assault would apply to very minor injuries, sometimes just pain.

However, an assault charge does not always include actual physical violence or harm. Assault can simply be a threat such as a verbal threat or even a raised fist.

Defenses

There are many possible defenses against violent crime charges. They available defenses vary from state to state and can include:

• Self defense
• Defense of others
• Defense of property
• Prevention of a crime
• A history of being abused by the victim
• Having previously been violently attacked by the victim
• Mental impairment
• Age

If you or a loved one is in need of legal assistance, call The Shamy Law Firm at 732-800-1090 or submit an online questionnaire. The initial consultation is free of charge. If we agree to handle your case, we will aggressively defend your rights and help you every step of the way in securing the best possible outcome. Sometimes the proper legal action very early in the process can stop prosecution in its tracks saving your time, money, and other hardships. Criminal cases can require rigorous investigation on behalf of the defendant, and involve strict deadlines. Please, contact us right away to ensure that you do not give up any of your precious legal rights.