Being accused of a violent crime is one of the most serious legal challenges a person can face. These charges carry not only severe legal consequences but also a lasting impact on your personal and professional life. When the stakes are this high, you need an experienced legal team on your side—especially one with the perspective of former prosecutors who understand exactly how the state will build its case.
Understanding Violent Crime Charges
Violent crimes involve the use or threat of physical force against another person. In California, these charges can range from misdemeanors to life sentences, depending on the severity of the alleged act, whether a weapon was involved, and whether the accused has prior convictions. Common violent crime charges include:
- Assault and battery
- Domestic violence
- Homicide and manslaughter
- Stalking
- Robbery
- Weapons violations connected to an alleged violent act
Each of these charges requires a tailored defense strategy, as the elements the prosecution must prove will differ in every case.
The Stakes Are High
A conviction for a violent crime in California can result in lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. It can also trigger California’s Three Strikes Law, significantly increasing penalties for future offenses. Additionally, these charges can affect custody rights, immigration status, and employment opportunities.
Why Experience as a Former Prosecutor Matters
At Simmons Wagner, LLP, our attorneys bring the advantage of having worked on the other side of the courtroom. We understand how prosecutors think, the tactics they use to secure convictions, and where their cases are most likely to have weaknesses. This insight allows us to anticipate arguments and counter them with strong evidence and strategic cross-examination.
Building a Strong Defense
An effective defense for violent crime charges starts with a thorough investigation. Our approach often includes:
- Reviewing police reports for inconsistencies or procedural errors
- Interviewing witnesses and gathering statements to challenge the prosecution’s version of events
- Consulting with forensic experts to analyze physical evidence
- Filing motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence
- Exploring self-defense, defense of others, or mistaken identity as viable strategies
The Importance of Early Action
Time is a critical factor in violent crime cases. The sooner you involve a defense attorney, the more opportunities there are to gather evidence, secure witness testimony, and potentially negotiate with prosecutors before charges escalate.
Fighting for Your Rights in Court
If your case goes to trial, you need a defense team that is prepared to challenge the prosecution’s case at every turn. This includes exposing unreliable witnesses, highlighting flaws in forensic evidence, and persuading the jury that reasonable doubt exists.
Protecting Your Future
Violent crime accusations can change your life in an instant, but a skilled defense attorney can help protect your rights and your future. With the right representation, it is possible to reduce charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate for alternative sentencing that avoids lengthy incarceration.
If you are facing violent crime charges in Southern California, don’t wait to take action. Contact Simmons Wagner, LLP at (949) 439-5857 today to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced defense attorney who will fight for you every step of the way.