Understanding Violent Crimes in California: Types & Charges Explained

Being charged with a violent crime can be a terrifying ordeal to have to handle on your own, especially if you have not yet hired legal representation. If you don’t make an effort to protect yourself, there’s no telling what could happen when you start trying to fight the charges being made against you. Above all, you want to understand what to expect, and you want to surround yourself with people who can help. Knowing the types of violent crimes in California can help.

If you fail to fight the charges against you and you end up convicted of a violent crime, you are going to end up with a criminal record. A criminal record will follow you for the rest of your life and can cause serious damage to many different aspects of your daily life. A criminal record can hurt your job prospects, affect your housing options, hurt your social standing, and even impact your personal relationships. A good lawyer can work hard to prevent you from getting convicted.

A criminal threats attorney in Calabasas can help you understand your rights and build a strong defense to fight the charges against you.

The Types of Violent Crimes in California

As per California state law, a violent crime is considered any criminal activity that involves the use of deadly force against another person. It’s a crime that causes another person serious injury or death or is committed with a deadly weapon. There are many different crimes that fall under this categorization, and the penalties you could face will depend entirely on the details of the alleged crime.

Here are some of the various types of violent crimes that are common in California:

• Murder. Murder is arguably the worst possible crime you could be charged with in California. It involves the killing of another person and can be categorized as first or second-degree murder. First-degree murder is largely premeditated, while second-degree murder is committed intentionally but wasn’t planned.
• Sexual assault. Sexual assault occurs when one person forces another into sexual activity against their will, usually through some form of force or threat of force. There are many different forms of sexual assault in California, including rape, sexual battery, statutory rape, indecent exposure, sexual abuse, and even stalking. If you are charged with sexual assault, you should immediately contact a lawyer and start building a defense.
• Robbery. Robbery involves stealing another person’s property through the use of force or the threat of violence. Both first and second-degree robbery are treated as felonies in California. First-degree robbery involves taking someone’s property by force, while second-degree robbery is any robbery that doesn’t meet all the requirements of first-degree robbery. Either way, you should hire a lawyer if you are charged.
• Assault. Assault is an illegal attempt to cause somebody injury. There are various forms of assault that are prosecuted in California. There’s simple assault, which is largely a threat of violence. Aggravated assault, which involves causing someone bodily harm, and assault with a deadly weapon, which will likely be prosecuted as a felony.

What to Do if You Are Arrested

Being arrested for a violent crime can be an embarrassing ordeal, especially if it happens in front of family or strangers. An arrest can feel like the end of the world, but it’s important that you don’t lose hope. You may be able to overcome this with the help of a lawyer. It’s important that you remember you are innocent until proven guilty, regardless of the crime with which you are being charged. You are always afforded your constitutional rights, and those cannot be infringed upon.

Your constitutional rights include your right to remain silent when questioned by police and your right to retain legal counsel. It’s important that you lean on both of them. The first thing you should do when you get to the police station is contact your lawyer. Don’t say anything to the police that you don’t want. When your lawyer arrives, you can let them do all the talking for you.

FAQs About Violent Crimes in California: Types, Charges, and Legal Implications

What Are the Most Common Violent Crimes in California?

Generally, the most common violent crimes that occur in California are aggravated assault, robbery, rape, and murder. Violent crimes can occur anywhere, even in communities with relatively low crime rates, and being charged with a violent crime can have life-altering consequences. If you are facing charges, it is crucial to secure strong legal counsel to protect your rights and build a solid defense.

What Is an Example of Manslaughter?

Manslaughter occurs when somebody kills another person without malice or intent, which makes it a slightly lesser charge than murder. An example of manslaughter would be a driver who accidentally runs over and kills a pedestrian at a crosswalk. They may not have intended to hurt anybody, but they are still responsible for taking someone’s life.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Violent Crime Case?

Yes, you are likely going to need a lawyer for a violent crime case. While you don’t technically need to hire a lawyer if you don’t want to, you should seriously consider doing so anyway. Without a lawyer, there’s no telling how your case could end up, especially if you decide to represent yourself and go up against a seasoned prosecutor. Having someone in your corner who understands what’s at stake can only help you in the long run.

What Is the Most Serious Felony in California?

In California, the most serious felonies are considered to be capital felonies. Capital felonies include any felony that is punishable by death or life in prison without parole. These include first-degree murder, human trafficking, aggravated kidnapping, treason, and sexual abuse of a child, among other felonies. Felonies are classified based on their severity.

Reach Out to a Violent Crimes Lawyer Today

Understanding the various types and degrees of violent crimes in California can help you be better prepared to face the charges being made against you. You should reach out to an experienced violent crime lawyer who can help you figure out a plan and a way forward. The legal team at the Law Offices of James E. Silverstein knows the kind of help you will need. Contact us to speak to someone on our team about your case.