These crimes occur when an offender threatens or actually succeeds in using force against the victim. Since these crimes usually result in injuries and/or great bodily harm, they carry with them the most severe penalties recognized under the law.

There are many offense constituting crimes of violence. Some of the most common include:

• Assault/Battery – these crimes are closely related to one another. Generally, Battery is the unlawful use of force against another, and Assault is an attempted battery. Depending on the seriousness of the offense, the extent of bodily harm suffered by the victim, both Battery and Assault may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. The more serious the injuries to the victim and if a weapon was used, the more likely that either will be charged as felonies. Accordingly, the penalties and sentencing for these crimes can vary depending on the circumstances of each case.

• Robbery – the taking of personal property in possession of another, and against their will, and accomplished by means of fear or force. In California, depending of the degree of the offense, a robbery conviction may carry anywhere between 2 to 6 years in state prison.

• Kidnapping – in its simplest form, kidnapping is the unlawful forcible abduction of any person. There are different degrees of this offence and the penalties can significantly increase based on the nature and facts of each particular charge. The consequences of a Kidnapping conviction are extremely harsh. Depending on the nature of the offense, the type of victim, and the nature of the victim’s injuries, among other things, may lead to a prison sentence anywhere from three years to life imprisonment, without the possibility of parole.

• Arson – a person is guilty of arson when he or she willfully and maliciously sets fire to, aids or causes to be burned any structure, land or property. Arson is a serious felony under California law, with the potential of sign cant prison time depending on the nature of the crime and injuries sustained by any victim.

• Murder – is the unlawful, intentional and malicious killing of a human being. A Murder charge can also exist if someone dies or is killed during the commission of certain felonies that are inherently dangerous to life. Obviously, a murder charge is the most serious charge recognized under the law. One charged with such an offense can expect significant jail time upon conviction in the state prison, often without the ability of parole, and in certain circumstances, even the death penalty.

If you have been charged with a violent crime, there is a lot at stake! You need an attorney capable of handling complex and difficult facts, theories, and issues related to your criminal offense. In many instances, a desirable plea-bargain cannot be obtained for violent offenses. It is precisely at this time when you need to power of the Law Offices of Peter Berlin to zealously represent you and to protect your rights and freedom. We have years of experience in complex matters and will aggressively defend you throughout the entire case.