Violent Offenses
Violent Offenses Attorney in Arkansas
What is the difference between violent offenses?
Violent offenses include crimes like battery, assault, terroristic threatening, terroristic acts, kidnapping, and residential burglary. Homicide and sex offenses can be and are often violent crimes, but not always. These types of cases include the harm or threat of harm to a person or property – the use of a weapon is commonly involved, but not required. Not all violent offenses are felonies – it is possible to get a violent misdemeanor charge.
Violent crimes are different than non-violent crimes because, typically, they have a victim. Another difference is that violent crimes usually carry heavier penalties.
Domestic Abuse / Battery
Domestic Abuse/Battery has 3 different levels. 3rd Degree battery is the lowest and is typically a violent misdemeanor charge. 1st and 2nd degree battery are serious felonies. The distinction between the degrees usually has to do with the degree of injury or the involvement of a weapon. If you hear of domestic abuse or battery charges against yourself, even if they aren’t officially filed yet, you need to call a domestic abuse attorney in Arkansas.
Murder / Homicide
Homicide is causing the death of another person. The type of charge placed against you is based on the accused’s mental state. There are 6 different levels of homicide in Arkansas, and they range from Negligent Homicide to Capital Murder.
Before taking a violent crime to trial,
here are some topics to discuss with your defense attorney:
-
The Prosecutor/Court: It’s no secret that some Prosecutors and Judges are tougher than others. Have a conversation with your attorney about who will be in your courtroom and what they’ll be like.
-
Possible Defense Strategies: Because there’s a victim involved in most violent crimes cases, the defense strategy will need to take the victim’s side of the story into account. Talk to your attorney about their initial thoughts on types of available defenses.
-
Likelihood of Trial: Ask your attorney how many of these cases make it to trial and how many they win. It’s fair for you to want to know your own odds. This way, you can properly weigh your choice between bargaining and a jury trial.
