Being charged with a violent crime can be overwhelming, confusing, enraging, and even somewhat isolating. It’s important to keep in mind that an arrest does not always equate to a conviction. You have the opportunity to plead your case and figure out a strategy for an adequate defense.
It is crucial that you contest your violent crime charges. The stigma of a violent crime charge can affect your personal and professional life. A Mesa violent crime lawyer can help you figure out how to fight the charges and use evidence to provide the court with more insight into the incident.
The team at Hallam Law Group includes a knowledgeable Mesa criminal defense lawyer who can stand by your side and help you build a strong defense from the very beginning.
According to Arizona state law, a violent crime is any criminal activity that results in somebody’s death or serious physical harm, as well as a crime that involves the use of a deadly weapon. This means there are many different crimes that could be considered violent crimes, including assault, domestic violence, kidnapping, sexual assault, child abuse, arson, and even murder. The key components that make up a violent crime are injuries, death, or use of a weapon.
Getting arrested for a violent crime charge can be embarrassing and humiliating. It can make you feel like you have already lost. However, the court considers you innocent until proven guilty, and you are afforded certain constitutional rights that cannot be infringed upon. This includes your right to remain silent and your right to retain counsel.
When you are arrested, your first move should be to call your lawyer. Exercise your right to remain silent by saying nothing to the police while you await the arrival of your counsel. Be honest and thorough when discussing the details of your case with your lawyer. Your lawyer cannot help you properly if they do not have all the facts. You do not have to fear judgment from a criminal defense lawyer. We are familiar with violent crime cases and work with you to disprove your guilt.
The kind of defense strategy you may be able to adapt depends entirely on the details of your case and what violent crime you allegedly committed. A defense lawyer can work tirelessly to help you form a strong defense strategy. Here are some of the possible ways you can argue against the charges:
There is no telling how much a criminal lawyer might cost in Arizona. Every criminal defense case is different, with every case having its own specific circumstances and challenges that make them unique. Since each case is different, the lawyer’s fee can vary widely. A lawyer’s fee should account for the complexity of the case, the resources they need to use, and the lawyer’s experience, education, and availability.
There are multiple agencies in Arizona that investigate violent crimes. Nearly every town and city in the state has its own police department that investigates local crimes. In addition, the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) often coordinates with federal marshals to investigate violent crimes and track down people with active warrants. Depending on whether the crime has crossed state lines, the FBI may also get involved.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) considers many different illegal activities to be violent crimes worth investigating. Some of the crimes the FBI considers violent include murder, manslaughter, rape, aggravated assault, and robbery. The FBI defines a violent crime as a crime that involves force or the threat of force. The FBI also investigates violent crimes that are committed on U.S. Government property, on domestic and international aircraft, and against Americans overseas.
While you do not technically need to hire a lawyer for any case in Arizona, it is highly recommended that you do so anyway. You aren’t legally required to have a lawyer at all, but having legal counsel increases the chances of your case’s success. Having someone in your corner who understands the complexities of the law and can provide you with assistance can only benefit you in the long run.
Getting charged with a violent crime can be the beginning of the end for you. Depending on the charges, you might face a significant prison sentence and a total loss of your freedom. The last thing you want is to be caught unprepared. We recommend retaining the services of a violent crime lawyer.
The legal team at Hallam Law Group understands how high the stakes are with a violent crime case. We are prepared to assist you in developing your case, gathering the evidence you need, and helping you build a strong defense strategy. Contact us to speak with a valued team member about a consultation.