Violent crimes may involve a sudden event or be the result of a long history of mistreatment. If you are charged with a violent crime in Virginia, you will need someone on your side who will fight the charges and make sure you get treated fairly.

When an innocent person is unjustly charged with a violent crime, they will face the prospect of jail time and a criminal record if found guilty. Before pleading guilty to criminal charges, contact me to fight for your rights.

Virginia Violent Crimes and Crimes Against the Person

Violent crimes in Virginia are classified as “crimes against the person.” I provide legal representation in all violent crime charges in Virginia, including:

• Assault and battery § 18.2-57
• Domestic Violence § 18.2-57.2
• Kidnapping § 18.2-47
• Murder § 18.2-32
• Sexual Assault § 18.2-61
• Voluntary manslaughter § 18.2-35
• Involuntary manslaughter § 18.2-36
• Gang crimes § 18.2-46.1
• Acts of Terrorism § 18.2-46.5
• Robbery § 18.2-58
• Carjacking § 18.2-58.1

Violent Crime Penalties in Virginia

Penalties for violent crime in Virginia range from a Class 1 misdemeanor for simple assault up to life imprisonment. The penalties for a violent crime conviction can be based in part on how seriously the victim was injured in certain instances.

In some first-offense cases of domestic violence assault against a family or household member, the person charged may have their charges deferred and placed on probation. The terms of probation may require counseling, drug or alcohol treatment, education, community service, and other conditions for a deferred disposition.

Most simple assault charges are misdemeanors, punishable by up to 12 months in jail. However, assault on a police officer or hate crime related assault charges resulting in injury are generally treated as felonies. Most other violent crime charges are treated as felony offenses. Even after release from jail, felons may face additional hurdles in trying to get a job, getting housing or benefits, and prohibition from owning a gun.

Defenses to Violent Crime Charges

Even if the police do not believe your side of the story, you get your chance to have your day in court. I will investigate your case to determine the best defense strategy for your case. This may include:

• Self-defense,
• Defense of others,
• The alleged victim started the fight,
• The alleged victim escalated the fight,
• Witnesses dispute the alleged victim's story,
• Any contact was accidental and not intentional,
• Mistaken identity,
• Police officer misconduct.

Charlottesville Violent Crime Defense Lawyer

If you have been charged with assault, battery, or other violent crime in Charlottesville, contact attorney me today for a free consultation. I will fight to have your charges dismissed, obtain a not guilty verdict, or minimize the negative impact of a conviction.