The Main Types of Violent Crimes

In the U.S., violent crimes are defined as incidents that involve force or the threat of force. In 2019, there were 1.2 million violent crimes reported in the country. This means that every year, millions of individuals find themselves being accused of or charged with one of these violent crimes. At The Ambeau Law Firm, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of people who wind up in these situations. Our violent crime lawyers understand the delicacies of these challenges and are able to be aggressive advocates. Some of the most common violent crimes reported in the US include:

Aggravated assault

An aggravated assault is considered an attempt to cause serious bodily harm to an individual without regard for their human life. A crime involving a physical attack is usually considered an assault, a battery, or both. Two types of assault are simple and aggravated assault. This depends on the gravity of the harm done. Aggravated assault is a felony that involves an assault committed with a weapon or with intent to commit a serious crime. Examples of charges that would constitute aggravated assault include:

Striking or threatening to strike a person with a weapon or dangerous object

Shooting a person with a gun or threatening to kill someone while pointing a gun at them

Assault with the intent to commit another felony crime like robbery or rape

Assault resulting in serious physical injury

Assault while concealing one's identity

Assault against a member of a protected class like a police officer, healthcare provider, social services worker, or developmentally disabled or elderly person

Robbery

The definition of robbery is taking another person's property by force or threat. Typically, robbery means that the individual took the money or property with the intent to keep the property permanently, without the property owner's consent, or by the use of force or intimidation. The difference between a robbery and a theft is that a robbery entails taking property directly from the person. The most common types of robberies are robberies that are committed on public streets and in alleys.

Murder or non-negligent manslaughter

Murder is a homicide that is the illegal killing of another person. In its most standard terms, it is defined as one person killing another with malice afterthought. Malice is defined as the knowledge and intention or desire to do evil. Therefore, malice afterthought occurs when one person kills another with the intent to do evil. There is first-degree murder and second-degree murder. First-degree murder is premeditated, while second-degree murder is not.

Manslaughter, on the other hand, is third-degree murder. Manslaughter is a homicide that is the unintentional killing of another person. Due to the intent behind these crimes, they are treated as less severe than murder. This crime can be categorized into voluntary and involuntary manslaughter. Voluntary manslaughter occurs when a person kills without premeditation. These crimes occur in the heat of the passion. The intent is to kill the person or harm them, but it was not premeditated. Involuntary manslaughter, on the other hand, occurs when a person is killed by actions that involve a disregard for another person's life. With involuntary manslaughter, there is not premeditation or true intent to kill, but the death of a person still occurs. Instances of involuntary manslaughter include texting and driving, using and abusing drugs, and discharging a firearm.

Aggravated battery

A criminal battery is a physical act that results in harmful or offensive contact with another individual without their consent. A battery becomes an aggravated battery when it involves serious bodily injury or the use of a dangerous weapon. Types of injuries that can lead to an aggravated battery charge include broken bones, a coma, an injury that requires extensive suturing, hospitalization, or surgery, scarring, and losing a body part. Some examples of aggravated battery include:

Shooting someone with a gun

A battery that resulted in the victim suffering temporary disfigurement that is more severe than a superficial wound

A battery that resulted in the victim suffering permanent disfigurement or other serious physical injury

Striking an individual with a weapon or dangerous object

Battery against protected groups like police officers, healthcare providers, social service workers, or the elderly and developmentally disabled

How to Choose a Criminal Defense Attorney for a Violent Crime Charge

Finding the right attorney can make a big difference in your case. At The Ambeau Law Firm, we work tirelessly to give you the best results possible. If you are being accused of or charged with a violent crime, you'll want to look out for the following qualities when you choose your attorney:

Responsiveness

The nature of an ongoing trial is that the pertinent factors are evolving until the case closes. The last thing you want is an attorney who does not keep you updated or who is not responding to you when you need them. Time is essential when you are potentially facing a criminal charge. At The Ambeau Law Firm, we have a proven track record of success, and one of the reasons this is true is because of our responsiveness. You can trust that we will advocate on your half and keep you in the loop every step of the way.

Experienced locally

We recommend looking for an attorney who is experienced in the local courts. This is because local connections can play an important role in producing the best outcomes for a given case. Our attorneys are well-versed in handling crime in our area, and we are familiar with historical outcomes of violent crime cases here.

Reputability

The most important goal of any attorney is to produce the best outcomes for their clients. When attorneys are able to do this, they will earn a positive reputation. At The Ambeau Law Firm, our reputation precedes us. Before even making a consultation, potential clients are able to read our raving reviews that give us praises like “understanding,” “trustworthy,” and “respectful.”

Knowledgeability

When you speak with your attorney, it should be clear that they have a handle on complicated legal matters, to the point that they can make it seem simple to a common person. Your attorney should have a thorough understanding of the trial process for various crimes and be able to explain this to you in a comprehensive way.

If you need legal representation for a violent crime case, The Ambeau Law Firm will be on your side. Call the team at or contact us online to get the support you need.

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