Violent Crimes

Violent crimes are considered felonies in California, resulting in long-lasting ramifications and a permanent criminal record. A conviction for a violent crime can mark you as a felon for life, preventing employment, housing, and educational opportunities. Additionally, the penalties are severe, and you may face lifelong incarceration. Punishment also depends on your previous criminal record, and enhancements can be made if you have a history of violent crimes.  Learn more about the value of hiring a San Diego violent crimes lawyer.

If you have been accused of a violent crime in the San Diego area, we want to help you. Dod Law, in Downtown San Diego, Orange County and Vista, California, is an effective law firm that understands criminal defense. Led by attorney Dod Ghassemkhani, we have represented numerous regional clients, many of whom face serious violent crimes.

What Is Considered a Violent Crime in California?

While California’s Penal Code section 667.5, also known as the “Three Strikes” law, imposes harsher sentences on repeat offenders, it also lists certain crimes as “violent crimes.” These are generally offenses involving the use or threat of force or violence against another person. Some examples of crimes that are considered violent in California include:

• Kidnapping (Penal Code section 207)
• Rape (Penal Code section 261)
• Sodomy (Penal Code section 286)
• Child abuse (Penal Code section 273(d))
• Voluntary manslaughter (Penal Code section 192(a))
• Assault with a deadly weapon (Penal Code section 245(a)(1))
• Robbery (Penal Code section 211)
• Carjacking (Penal Code section 215)
• Domestic violence (Penal Code section 273.5)
• Murder (Penal Code section 187)

It’s important to remember that the above list is not exhaustive, and California considers other crimes violent depending on the circumstances. The penalties for each crime also depend on various aspects.

Retaining an experienced, aggressive, dependable lawyer is crucial if accused of a violent crime. Let our law firm help you. Having been the lead attorney in more than 75 jury trials, Attorney Dod understands the intricacies of the criminal court system.

What Are Penalties for Violent Crimes in California?

While penalties for violent crimes in California significantly depend on the type of crime and its severity, there are general consequences for first-time offenders. Violent crimes are punishable by imprisonment in state prison for two, three, or four years, as well as up to $10,000 in fines. If the defendant has a prior conviction for a serious or violent felony, they may be sentenced to an additional and consecutive term of three, four, or five years in state prison.

Those with two or more serious or violent felony convictions may serve additional and consecutive terms of six, seven, or eight years in state prison. Defendants may also lose various rights, including occupying specific spaces and voting. Both the type of crime and whether the person has any prior convictions significantly alter the severity of the crime.

Some violent crimes, such as murder, manslaughter, and certain sex crimes, may result in much harsher penalties, including life imprisonment or the death penalty. In addition, if the crime was committed with a firearm or other deadly weapon, there may be additional penalties and enhancements. It’s essential to consult with a criminal defense attorney to understand the potential penalties for a specific violent crime charge.

What to Look for in Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney – A Violent Crimes Lawyer

Defenses to Violent Crimes in San Diego, California

Given that various types of violent crimes drastically change in severity, there are also numerous potential defenses for your case. When you work with a lawyer, their experience and knowledge will provide you with the details to choose the right defense for your claim. 

Consider the following as a few examples:

• Mistaken identity
• Self-defense
• Defense of others
• False accusations
• Lack of evidence
• Lack of intention
• Police misconduct
• Exaggerated or invalid harm

The type of defense you choose significantly depends on your case’s specific facts and evidence. Regardless of the defense, our team of San Diego violent crime defense attorneys at Dod Law, APC will conduct a thorough investigation and provide detailed evidence to support your case. To learn more about your situation and the best legal options available, speak with our lawyers as soon as possible.  

How Can a Highly-Qualified San Diego Violent Criminal Defense Attorney Help You?

Going up against violent charges without someone familiar with the legal process and well-versed in defense strategies is extremely dangerous. A violent charge could change your life forever, and without someone by your side navigating the process, you may suffer harsh consequences. Consider some ways a San Diego violent crimes defense lawyer may help your claim:

• Interviewing witnesses
• Gathering essential evidence
• Answering your legal questions
• Conducting an independent investigation into the prosecutor’s case
• Evaluating the severity of potential penalties
• Crafting the best defense for your unique situation
• Helping you formulate a plea
• Guiding you through every step of California’s complex legal process
• Working on getting your charges dropped before they are formally filed
• Fighting aggressively for your rights and interests before and during trial

Our team at Dod Law, APC understands the pressure on your shoulders and the fear you feel with a criminal charge weighing over you. We will do everything in our power to ensure you have the best possible outcome for your claim.

Charged With a Violent Crime in San Diego? Contact Dod Law Now

Navigating California’s criminal justice system can be stressful and overwhelming without the guidance of a professional criminal defense attorney. When you place your future and trust into another person’s hands, you’ll want to ensure they are criminal defense lawyers ready and willing to do everything it takes to defend you. Our Dod Law team will research the facts and thoroughly investigate every detail of the case against you. 

Our San Diego violent crimes lawyers are passionate about defending those within our community and take pride in our positive past results and references. 

To schedule a free consultation with a member of our first-class legal team, call us today at our San Diego office (619) 814-5110 | Orange County office 949-681-7020  | Vista office 760-814-6025 | or schedule an appointment by filling out our online contact form