Any criminal charge can have life-altering consequences, but if you’re convicted for a violent crime, the repercussions can be especially steep. Violent crimes are considered a threat to society, which is why the courts aim to punish those convicted with harsh penalties. However, situations are rarely as black and white and they appear on paper, and our firm understands that the grey area is extremely important when dealing with cases of a violent nature. Whether you were charged with armed robbery, murder, assault, kidnapping, or a sexual offense, these types of crimes carry with them a certain stigma that may have a lasting impact on the accused person’s life, even if there is no conviction.
Because the repercussions for a violent crime conviction can be hefty, and may include imprisonment, large fines, and a damaging mark on your criminal record, you need to take immediate action after you’ve been charged.
If you were charged with a violent crime, follow these key steps to protect your rights:
Don’t discuss the case before speaking with your attorney. Discussing the case with the police can be dangerous without an attorney present, which is why you should always contact your legal counsel immediately after you’ve been accused or charged. Police have certain questioning tactics and strategies specifically designed to lure people into providing details that could incriminate them, even falsely. Even if you are completely innocent of the crime, discussing the situation with the police, or with other people who could report your statements to the police, could severely harm your case.
Take notes. Write down everything you can recall from the time when the alleged crime took place. Record everything you recall from the date of the incident in great detail, as these small details could help your attorney investigate and find evidence to help support your claims and prove your innocence.
Follow your legal plan. Once you and your attorney have created a legal strategy for your case, do what you can to support it to the best of your ability. It might be in your best interest to avoid association with certain people or places, or your lawyer might suggest you avoid talking about the case altogether. Whatever the situation, discuss the best course of action with your legal team, and stick to it.
Types of Violent Crimes
Violent crimes can take many shapes and forms and can include any of the following:
Accessory Before the Fact
Armed Robbery
Arson
Assault
Assault & Battery
Extortion
Firearm Crimes
Kidnapping
Manslaughter
Murder
Violent Felonies
If you were recently accused of a violent offense, our firm is here to help. We have ample experience defending the wrongfully accused, and we care about fighting for the best possible outcome for our clients. However complex the case or serious the allegations, we can provide you with the legal counsel you need and deserve.
Contact Brad Bailey Law to schedule a consultation with our attorneys today.