Hollywood Violent Crimes Attorney

A violent crime conviction can lead to a lengthy jail sentence, fines, or restitution payments, among other consequences. These are serious crimes that require serious representation. If you’re facing charges for a violent crime in Florida, contact the violent crime attorneys at Fischer Redavid PLLC. Our firm can help you understand your rights in the steps that come next and will work toward a reduction in sentencing whenever possible.

What Are Violent Crimes?

Violent crimes are any criminal offense that use force or violence, either the threat or actual violence. Violent crime is a broad term that can encompass rape, sexual assault, aggravated assault, simple assault, robbery, homicide, and more.

Violent crimes have two forms: first, they may occur when violence is the main objective of the crime, or violence may occur as a means to an end. For example, a robbery may involve violence as a means of obtaining property, but violence is often the main objective when someone commits homicide in the first or second degree. 

Types of Violent Crimes

There are several types of violent crimes and some are more common than others:

• Assault is one of the most common types of violent crime. Under Florida law, assault occurs when there is an intentional use of (or threat of) force against another person. Assault does not require actual physical contact. The mere act of threatening to harm someone and the ability to carry out the threat can lead to an assault charge. Assault may be simple or aggravated. Assault is generally a misdemeanor, but it may elevate to a felony in certain circumstances.
• Battery is similar to assault, but involves actual physical contact.
• Robbery is a violent crime when victims face intimidation with a weapon or otherwise fear for their safety. The possession of a weapon during the commission of another crime can lead to enhanced sentencing.
• Sexual assault involves non-consensual conduct and/or forcible rape. These are violent crimes, regardless of whether it involves a weapon.
• Homicide is one of the most serious forms of violent crime. Homicide has varying degrees that depend on the nature of the offense. Premeditated homicide, for example, is murder in the first degree and carries the harshest sentence. No matter the degree, homicide is a felony under Florida law.

Possible Penalties for Violent Crimes

Punishments and penalties for violent crimes vary widely based on the nature of the offense and other considerations. Most violent crimes carry felony charges which include jail time of at least one year, fines, or both. In some cases, violent crimes may even carry the death penalty. In other cases, however, charges like simple assault may only involve misdemeanor punishments.

Violent crime offenses also carry other penalties. For example, defendants convicted of violent crimes will be unable to lawfully possess a firearm. Additionally, defendants may have to pay restitution to victims, perform community service, or serve probation.

Why You Need an Attorney

If you’re facing violent crime charges in Florida, you need effective legal representation and an attorney who will fight for your rights in court. Everyone in the nation has the right to a defense, and a criminal defense attorney can offer you guidance and insight during the difficult times that lie ahead.

The Hollywood violent crime attorneys at Fischer Redavid PLLC thoroughly explore your legal options and go through the evidence with a fine-tooth comb, searching for any mitigating circumstances that could lead to a reduction in charges or sentencing. For more information on our criminal defense services or to schedule a consultation with us, please contact our office today. Our firm will give you the best possible chance of defending and overcoming the charges you face.