Criminal Defense Attorneys for South Florida - The Law Office of Sean Clayton, P.A.

Crimes involving force or violence, known as violent crimes, encompass a wide range of offenses. Examples include assault, battery, sexual assault, rape, robbery, and murder. It is important for individuals in the Broward, Miami, or Palm Beach area to seek legal guidance from a Criminal Defense Attorney promptly if facing charges related to a violent crime, as the consequences can be severe.

Violent crimes can occur in two different scenarios. Firstly, violence may be the primary objective of the crime, such as when one person attacks another. Secondly, violence can be a means to an end, like when a threat is used to commit a robbery.

Assault is one of the most common types of violent crime, involving intentional threats or use of force against another person. Physical contact is not necessary for assault charges, as the mere threat, combined with the ability to carry it out, constitutes assault. The severity of assault charges can range from simple assault to aggravated assault, depending on factors such as the use of a deadly weapon. Battery, on the other hand, requires actual physical contact between the suspect and the victim or a weapon and the victim.

In more than half of robberies, victims are confronted with weapons such as knives or guns. Robbers use these weapons to instill fear and control their victims. Even if the suspect does not use or discharge the weapon, the presence of a weapon during the commission of a crime leads to penalty enhancements.

Sexual assault, a form of non-consensual contact or forcible rape, falls under the category of violent crime. Although weapons may not be involved in most cases, the offense is treated as a violent crime with corresponding penalties.

Homicide offenses are the most serious violent crimes, with different degrees based on the severity of the offense. Charges of murder and manslaughter vary depending on factors like intent, malice, aforethought, self-defense, and other circumstances surrounding the case. Penalties for homicide can range from lighter punishments for accidental killings, such as in car accidents, to more severe penalties for premeditated murders.

Conviction for a violent felony typically results in the prohibition of firearm possession, as well as incarceration, fines, restitution, community service, probation, and in extreme cases, the death penalty in Florida. When facing charges for a violent crime, it is crucial to engage the services of a skilled and aggressive criminal defense attorney. They will carefully examine the evidence, uncover any mitigating circumstances, and work to reduce or dismiss the charges against you. Time is of the essence, so contacting a criminal defense attorney immediately provides the best chance of overcoming the charges.