Escondido Violent Crimes Lawyer

Defending Clients Accused of Violent Crimes in Carlsbad, Oceanside, Poway, Rancho Bernardo, San Marcos, & Vista

Certain types of criminal offenses are considered inherently “violent” in California. This distinction is important, as violent felons are not eligible for early parole.  If you have been charged with a violent crime, your long-term freedom is likely at stake. You should not face these charges without help from an experienced legal advocate.

 At Sterger Law Group, we fight for the little guy, no matter their circumstances, and are committed to ensuring our community has access to quality defense representation. Our Escondido violent crimes lawyer is always ready to go to trial and will work closely with you throughout our handling of your case. We will listen to your story, review your defense options, and aggressively fight for the best possible result. 

Have you been arrested for a violent crime? Call Sterger Law Group today at (760) 280-7900 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our violent crime attorney in Escondido.

What is a Violent Crime?

A violent crime is a criminal offense that is committed by the use of physical force or violence against another person. “Violent crimes” is its own category under California criminal law. Crimes labeled as “violent” by definition constitute felonies. This can sometimes be confusing, as certain acts that involve some level of violence, such as assault, are not considered “violent crimes” and are not always prosecuted as felonies.

 Violent Crimes Penalties in California

Our Escondido violent crimes attorney can represent you in cases involving many types of offenses, including:

• Murder. Both first-degree murder and second-degree murder are considered violent felonies in California. The distinction between the charges tends to hinge on whether the act was premeditated. A conviction in a first-degree or second-degree murder case can lead to life imprisonment.
• Attempted Murder. Someone can be charged with attempted murder when they take at least one step toward killing another person with the specific intent of killing them. Penalties for first-degree attempted murder include life imprisonment. Punishments for second-degree attempted murder include up to nine years of prison time.
• Voluntary Manslaughter. Voluntary manslaughter charges may be pursued if someone kills another person in the heat of passion or due to extreme emotion. The perpetrator must have intended to kill the victim. Penalties for a conviction include up to eleven years in prison.
• Rape. Rape occurs when someone has sex with someone without their consent, even if that victim is the perpetrator’s spouse. The precise penalties will depend on the age of the victim, whether the victim was the defendant’s spouse, and whether the victim was injured. Penalties often include over a decade of prison time and up to $10,000 in fines. 
• Robbery. Someone commits robbery when they take something from someone else through force or threat of force. First-degree robbery charges apply when the act takes place in a dwelling (such as a home), at an ATM, or in a bus or a taxi. A first-degree robbery conviction can result in up to nine years in prison, while a second-degree conviction can lead to up to six years of prison time.
• Arson. Arson – the act of setting fire to a building, structure, forest, or piece of property – becomes a violent felony when the offense involves an inhabited area or seriously injures someone. In either scenario, a conviction can lead to up to eight years of prison time. 
• Kidnapping. A person kidnaps someone else when they take the victim from one location to another against their will. Without the presence of any aggravating factors, a kidnapping conviction can result in up to $10,000 in fines and up to eight years in prison. Aggravated kidnapping charges may apply if the victim is younger than 14, the perpetrator plans to ransom the victim, the victim is injured, or the act occurs as the result of carjacking. In some circumstances, being convicted of aggravated kidnapping can result in life imprisonment.

Contact our Escondido violent crime attorney at Sterger Law Group today!