Are you being charged with committing a violent crime? There’s no question that this can be a terrifying and life-changing experience. However, our Bellevue criminal defense lawyers can help.
At NextLaw, we know how scary it can feel to face accusations of assault or robbery, among other offenses categorized as violent crimes. We have over two decades of combined experience representing clients like you.
You can trust us to advocate for you and defend your rights because we know what it takes to serve as your Bellevue violent crimes lawyers successfully. We’re here to provide you with the legal support you need at a time like this. Call Dan Next!
What Are Examples of Violent Crime Charges in Bellevue?
When you reach out to us, we can tell you more about who we are and how we can work toward a favorable outcome on your behalf.
But before we can build a defense strategy, we’ll need to understand what type of violent crimes charge you’re facing. In general, violent crimes are serious offenses that often involve force—or the threat of force—against another person.
More specifically, the following actions are classified as violent crimes in Bellevue:
- Assault and battery
- Robbery
- Domestic violence
- Homicide
- Sexual assault
For a free legal consultation with a violent crimes lawyer serving Bellevue, call 253 238 2558
Types of Accusations a Bellevue Violent Crimes Law Firm Can Defend You Against
Violent crimes are generally placed into categories based on the severity of the actions and the intent behind them.
Here are some common classifications that your Bellevue violent crimes attorneys will likely review with you:
- Simple assault
- Aggravated assault
- Felony robbery
- Second-degree murder
- First-degree murder
Each type of violent crime has its own legal definition and corresponding penalties. When you meet with us, we can assess and address the charges you’re facing specifically.
Bellevue Violent Crimes Lawyer Near Me 253 238 2558
Potential Penalties for Violent Crimes
A Bellevue violent crimes law firm with experience representing people charged with violent crimes knows that the penalties are almost always severe. However, the severity varies widely based on the nature of the offense.
The defendant’s criminal history—as well as any aggravating factors—may also be taken into consideration. For example, if the person charged with the crime used a weapon or the victim was especially vulnerable, the repercussions might be more intense.
Here are a few common examples of penalties those charged with violent crimes could potentially face:
- Imprisonment
- Fines
- Probation
- Loss of civil rights
- Mandatory counseling
- Treatment or rehab
- Restitution
These punishments are designed to deter people from committing additional crimes in the future. They are also intended to protect the community and serve as retribution for harm caused.
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Common Defenses Legal Counsel Can Incorporate When Representing You
During the discovery process for your case, your lawyer will tailor defense strategies based on the specifics of your case. The details of your defense will depend on the circumstances of your situation.
That said, there are a handful of defenses that are commonly used in violent crime cases:
- Self-defense
- Lack of intent
- Alibi
- Insufficient evidence
- False accusations
Self-Defense
Self-defense is an argument that is made when you claim to have acted solely to protect yourself or others from imminent harm. To successfully argue self-defense, you have to prove that you were facing a fast-approaching threat of danger.
In other words, you must show that said threat of danger was immediate and unavoidable. You must also demonstrate that you acted proportionally in response to the threat. Your actions must have been reasonable and necessary to avert the danger, and excessive force is not permitted.
Lack of Intent
Another potential defense is the lack of intent to commit a violent act. This defense involves demonstrating that you did not intend to cause harm. In some cases, injuries may have occurred accidentally, and you can prove that you held no malicious intent.
Showing that you had no desire or plan to commit a violent act may help establish your innocence. However, the absence of malice is key in this defense, as it implies that your actions were not driven by hatred or a desire to cause harm.
Alibi
An alibi defense can be used to establish that you were not present at the scene of the crime when said crime occurred. This defense is powerful when it is supported by witness testimony or surveillance footage.
Witnesses who can confirm your whereabouts at the time of the crime can strengthen your case and show that you could not have committed the crime. Additionally, if there is video evidence that places you elsewhere, it can serve as a strong alibi defense.
Insufficient Evidence
Challenging the sufficiency of evidence is another strategy used in violent crime defense cases. The prosecution has the burden of proving your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, and your lawyer can make an effort to poke holes in the prosecutor’s arguments.
This may include questioning the credibility of witnesses, pointing out inconsistencies in testimonies, or showing that statements were biased and unreliable. You can also scrutinize forensic evidence, including DNA, fingerprints, or weapon analyses.
False Accusations
In some cases, the defense might be based on false accusations. This could involve your legal counsel proving that the charges against you are based on either incorrect or fabricated information. Mistaken identity is a prime example of this.
In mistaken identity cases, the perpetrator might be wrongly identified. You may be able to demonstrate that someone else was responsible for the offense. Malicious intent, whereby the accuser has ulterior motives for making false claims, is also on the table.
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Contact Our Bellevue Violent Crimes Attorneys to Schedule a Consultation
If you’re facing violent crimes charges, time is of the essence. The sooner you contact NextLaw, the better our chances of building a strong defense on your behalf. We can meet with you and discuss your case to put your mind at ease.
Don’t let a violent crime charge define your life. Call our law firm today to learn more about us and how we can protect your rights while pursuing a favorable outcome for your case.
Call or text 253 238 2558 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form