Philadelphia Violent Crime Lawyer
In 2010, according to the FBI's national crime statistics, 1.2 million violent crimes were committed in the United States. There was an estimated 403.6 violent crimes per 100,000 inhabitants in 2010. Aggravated assaults are one of the most common forms of violent crime reported. After aggravated assault, robbery was the second most common violent crime.
It is paramount that you consult with a Philadelphia criminal defense attorney if you are accused of committing a violent crime. Serious crimes can carry heavy penalties that may forever change your life. You can go to prison for a long time and have a criminal record that will continue to affect you even after you complete your sentence. The sooner you have an attorney advocating for your rights, the better your chances of a positive outcome in your case. Examples of violent crimes for which an attorney can provide a defense include simple assault,
aggravated assault,
vehicular manslaughter,
harassment,
burglary,
armed robbery,
domestic violence,
murder,
manslaughter,
hate crimes,
resisting arrest and
terroristic threats .
What is a violent crime?
While there are a wide range of violent crimes, some of the most common cases involve:
- Second degree murder
- First degree murder
- Battery attempted murder
- Involuntary manslaughter
- Voluntary manslaughter
- Car jacking
- Maiming battery
Possible Sentencing
Pennsylvania takes a tough stance on violent crimes, by imposing a mandatory minimum sentence for many crimes:
- Murder of the first degree: Death or life imprisonment
- Murder of the second degree: Life imprisonment
- Weapons of mass destruction and use resulting in the death of an individual- Life imprisonment
- Two or three strikes: a second crime of violence results in 10 years in prison and a third crime of violence results in 25 years in prison or life imprisonment
- Aggravated assault: 2 years of imprisonment
With these consequences locked in, it is imperative that an accused individual seek legal help immediately if he/she wants an actual chance to combat their charges. Pennsylvania takes violent crimes seriously: the state recently sentenced a 19 year old to death row after he murdered his landlord. When a defendant has a previous record or if there were certain aggravating factors present in the crime he/she was accused of, harsh penalties can be the result. One aggravating factor is the use of a firearm in carrying out a crime, which according to the FBI, occurred in 67.5% of murders, 41.4% of robberies, and 20.6% of aggravated assaults in 2010.
Get help today!
Due to the severe penalties that follow violent crime convictions, it is more important than ever to have a dedicated attorney on your side throughout the criminal court proceedings from the time of arrest, at arraignment, and during all hearings. The lawyers at Benari Law Group are resolute in their pursuit of the protection of your rights and freedoms. Our attorneys will challenge any evidence, which typically includes statements by the victim, witness reports, police records, forensics and anything other type of evidence presented by the prosecution.
We will review your case for any indications of errors by law enforcement or violations of your constitutional rights. The aim is an acquittal but if needed we can attempt to negotiate reduced charges or even alternatives to imprisonment. Pre-trial negotiations may achieve this but if it is more beneficial to have your case heard in court, we welcome the opportunity to present your defense. We can represent adult or juvenile defendants and will always work with your best interests in mind. With over 40 years of combined experience, we defend all types of criminal matters and are confident we can help you with your alleged violent crime case.
Contact Benari Law Group for legal representation in the battle against your violent crime charges!