Los Angeles Violent Crime Lawyer
Facing a violent crime charge in Los Angeles can be one of the most serious legal problems a person can have. These cases involve strong accusations, potential prison time, and a permanent criminal record. Law enforcement and district attorneys aggressively pursue violent crime convictions. If you are being charged, you need a defense team that understands how to protect your rights and freedom.
My Rights Law Group helps people charged with violent crimes in Los Angeles County. Our team knows how the criminal justice system works in these cases. We look closely at police reports, witness claims, and all available evidence.
Whether the charge involves assault, attempted murder, or domestic violence, our job is to build the strongest legal defense possible. We are ready to stand by your side from the beginning of your criminal case through trial if necessary.
What Is Considered a Violent Crime in California?
Under California Penal Code § 667.5(c), violent crimes are some of the most serious offenses in the state. These crimes often involve physical harm or the threat of harm to another person. Examples include murder, attempted murder, rape, sexual assault, robbery, carjacking, arson that causes injury, kidnapping, assault with a deadly weapon, domestic violence that leads to serious bodily harm, mayhem, and torture.
If someone is convicted of one of these crimes, they may face a long prison sentence and strike enhancements under California’s Three Strikes Law. A strike on your record can lead to much harsher penalties for any future convictions. Because of how severe these charges are, it is critical to have a strong legal defense and a skilled criminal defense attorney on your side.
These cases often involve complex legal issues and aggressive prosecutors who are looking for maximum punishment.
Violent Crime Charges We Defend
My Rights Law Group handles a wide range of violent crime cases throughout Los Angeles County. These charges often come with serious penalties, including years in prison and permanent marks on your criminal record.
Whether you are facing felony or misdemeanor charges, our defense attorneys work to protect your legal rights and develop a strong defense strategy.
Assault and Battery (PC §§ 240, 242, 243(d))
Assault and battery are separate but closely related crimes under California law. Assault under Penal Code § 240 refers to the attempt to harm someone, while battery under § 242 involves actual physical contact. When the battery causes serious bodily injury, it becomes aggravated battery under § 243(d).
Even a minor confrontation can result in criminal charges, especially if the alleged victim reports pain or visible injury. Our defense lawyers often see these charges in domestic violence or bar fight situations.
Assault With a Deadly Weapon (PC § 245(a)(1))
This charge applies when someone is accused of using a weapon or object capable of causing serious harm. Under Penal Code § 245(a)(1), even everyday items like a glass bottle or metal tool can be considered deadly weapons if used aggressively.
These charges are treated very seriously by law enforcement and prosecutors. If convicted, you may face felony penalties and a strike under the Three Strikes Law.
Robbery (PC § 211)
Robbery is considered a violent felony in California because it involves taking someone else’s property by using force or fear. Under Penal Code § 211, the act must occur in the victim’s immediate presence and against their will. This charge often comes with harsh penalties, especially if a weapon was involved or if the victim was seriously hurt.
Conviction for robbery can lead to years in prison and a permanent strike on your criminal record.
Attempted Murder (PC § 664/187)
Attempted murder charges are some of the most serious in California criminal law. Under Penal Code §§ 664 and 187, prosecutors must show that you intended to kill someone and took direct steps to do it, even if the person survived. These cases often involve evidence like witness statements, surveillance footage, or weapons.
A conviction can lead to a life sentence, especially if the act was premeditated or involved a firearm.
Domestic Violence With Injury (PC § 273.5)
Domestic violence becomes a felony under Penal Code § 273.5 when it causes physical injury to a spouse, partner, or someone you live with. These cases usually involve police reports, visible injuries, and medical records. In many situations, the victim may later decide not to press charges, but prosecutors can still pursue the case.
A conviction may bring jail time, restraining orders, and even loss of child custody or immigration status.
Kidnapping (PC § 207)
Kidnapping is a violent crime under California Penal Code § 207 and involves moving another person a substantial distance without their consent. This movement is often done by force, fear, or deception.
In aggravated cases, such as kidnapping during a robbery or for ransom, penalties can include life in state prison. Courts take these cases seriously due to the risk of physical and emotional harm to the victim.
Carjacking (PC § 215)
Under Penal Code § 215, carjacking means taking a vehicle from someone using force or threats while they are present. This charge does not require a weapon to be considered violent, and it often overlaps with robbery or kidnapping if the victim is forced to stay in the car.
A conviction can lead to several years in prison and a strike on your record under California’s Three Strikes Law. Carjacking cases are aggressively prosecuted by district attorneys throughout Los Angeles County.
Arson Causing Injury (PC § 451(a))
Arson becomes a violent felony when it causes serious injuries to another person. Under Penal Code § 451(a), prosecutors must prove that the fire was set on purpose and led to great bodily harm. These cases often include expert testimony from fire investigators, medical reports, and evidence of intent.
A conviction may lead to long-term imprisonment, especially if the fire endangered multiple people or first responders.
Penalties for Violent Crimes in Los Angeles
Violent crime convictions in Los Angeles come with some of the most serious penalties under California criminal law. These crimes often lead to long prison sentences, large fines, and permanent damage to a person’s criminal record.
Judges consider the severity of the act, the harm caused, and any past criminal history. Repeat offenses can bring even tougher punishments under the Three Strikes Law.
Here are some of the key sentencing consequences.
Prison Sentences
- 2 to 4 years for assault with a deadly weapon
- 3 to 6 years for robbery
- 15 years to life for attempted murder or kidnapping
Strike Enhancements (PC § 667)
Under California Penal Code § 667, known as the Three Strikes Law, a violent felony can count as a strike on your record. A second strike doubles the sentence, while a third strike can lead to 25 years to life in prison. These enhancements apply even if the new offense is not as serious as the previous ones.
Because of this law, having an experienced Los Angeles violent crime lawyer is critical to avoid long-term prison consequences.
Legal Defenses to Violent Crime Charges
When facing serious accusations like violent crimes, the right legal defense can change the outcome of your case. In Los Angeles County, courts expect strong evidence before convicting someone of assault, robbery, or other violent acts.
My Rights Law Group builds defense strategies that focus on your rights, the facts of the case, and the limits of law enforcement’s actions. Whether it’s proving self-defense, exposing false claims, or showing a lack of criminal intent, we work to get charges reduced or dismissed entirely.
Your future matters, and a skilled criminal defense lawyer can help protect it.
Self-Defense or Defense of Others
One of the most common legal defenses to violent crime charges is self-defense or protecting someone else. If you reasonably believed that you or another person was in danger of being seriously hurt, and you used only the force needed to stop that threat, the law may protect your actions.
A skilled criminal defense attorney can help prove that your actions were justified under California criminal law.
Mistaken Identity
Many violent crimes happen quickly, often with few reliable witnesses. In some cases, the wrong person is accused due to faulty memory, poor lighting, or even bias. A defense attorney may use surveillance footage, witness statements, or forensic evidence to show that you were not the person involved in the crime.
Proving mistaken identity is key to stopping the case before it leads to a conviction.
False Allegations
Some violent crime charges come from people who are lying or exaggerating. False allegations can happen during heated arguments, custody fights, or even when someone wants revenge. These situations often involve domestic violence or assault claims.
A strong legal defense may include uncovering motive, inconsistent statements, or a history of false reporting.
Lack of Intent
To be guilty of many violent crimes, the law requires that you meant to cause harm or knew your actions could hurt someone. If you acted by accident, or if your actions were misinterpreted, your defense attorney can argue that you lacked the criminal intent needed for a conviction.
Showing this can mean the difference between a serious felony and a dropped charge.
FAQs
1. Can I be charged with a sex crime without physical evidence?
Yes, sex crimes can be charged based on statements, witness accounts, or digital messages. However, a skilled defense attorney can challenge weak evidence and question the credibility of the claim.
2. Will I lose my license after a violent or nonviolent felony offense?
Some charges, like vehicular manslaughter, may lead to a driver’s license suspension. This depends on the circumstances, including your blood alcohol level and any related charges.
3. What is probable cause, and how does it affect my case?
Probable cause means police officers must have a valid reason to arrest or search you. If they act without it, your defense lawyer may be able to suppress the evidence.
4. Who decides whether I go to a jury trial?
You have the right to a jury trial, but your defense attorney and the deputy district attorney may discuss a plea deal first. You always have the final say on accepting or rejecting a trial.
5. Are violent crimes handled differently in state and federal court?
Yes. Crimes like weapons and firearm charges, first-degree burglary, domestic violence, and homicide may be filed in either court depending on the facts. Each court follows its own rules, and your legal defense must be tailored accordingly.
Contact Our Los Angeles Violent Crime Lawyer for a Free Consultation
If you are facing serious criminal charges, you need a strong defense to protect your legal rights. At My Rights Law Group, our experienced criminal defense lawyers understand the stress and fear that come with criminal cases, especially those involving violent crimes like assault, robbery, or false imprisonment. These offenses can lead to years in prison and a permanent mark on your record.
Our Los Angeles office is ready to help you build a defense strategy. We will examine how your Miranda Rights were handled, look into possible issues in the criminal investigation, and fight for your freedom. Whether the charges involve violence, theft offenses, or even white-collar crimes, our law firm is prepared to stand by your side at every step.
Contact us now for a free consultation. Our Los Angeles Violent Crime Lawyer will explain your options and help you protect your future. You do not have to face this alone.