Violent Crimes Lawyer in San Diego County
In San Diego County, facing allegations of violent crimes such as rape, robbery, kidnapping, first-degree murder, second-degree murder, attempted murder, mayhem, robbery, arson, lewd acts on a child under 14, or aggravated assault requires a skilled legal defense.
At the Law Offices of Kerry L. Armstrong, APLC, our San Diego County violent crimes lawyers specialize in defending individuals against these serious charges, providing aggressive advocacy and strategic counsel to safeguard your rights and future.
Types of Violent Crimes in San Diego County
Rape
California Penal Code section 621 states that it is illegal to engage in sexual intercourse with another person without their consent. The penalty for a rape charge is classified as a felony and punishable by imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Victim was an adult and NOT the spouse of the defendant, punishable by 3, 6, or 8 years in prison under Penal Code section 264(a)
- Spousal rape is punishable by 3, 6, or 8 years in state prison under section 264(a)
- Rape victim under 14 years of age is punishable by imprisonment of 3,7, 9, or 11 years
- Rape “in concert” (by definition of other people assisting the rape) is punishable by 5, 7, or 9 years in prison and 10, 12, or 14 years if the victim is under the age of 14. If the age of the victim is between the ages of 14 and 18 years old, the terms of imprisonment can be 7, 9, or 11 years.
Murder
Murder is classified by one of three types including first degree, second degree and finally, manslaughter. Under Penal Code section 187, first degree murder is classified as the unlawful killing of a human being with intentional malice aforethought, which has multiple definitions by law. The definitions include:
- Specified intent to kill or cause physical and serious bodily harm to another person
- The act committed was planned beforehand
- Defendant performed the activity that was known to cause serious bodily harm or death to a human being
Second degree and manslaughter charges have to be proven that there was specific intent to harm or kill the victim of the crime. Voluntary manslaughter in California is punishable by 3 to 11 years in state prison under Penal Code section 193. Involuntary manslaughter is punishable by 2 to 4 years in county jail in California.
Robbery
Robbery is separated into two categories under the California Penal Code section 211. It is classified as either first or second degree robbery under the definition of unlawfully obtaining another person’s personal property into one’s own possession as well as against the will of the owner by means of fear or possible force. All robberies are convicted as second degree robbery unless the property is forcibly obtained from a person in their home or at an ATM, from a taxi driver or bus driver.
Lewd Acts on a Child Under 14
California’s Penal Code section 288 states that a defendant will be charged of lewd acts on a child under 14 years of age if the following are met:
- If the child is 14 or 15 years of age and the defendant has at least 10 years of age more than the victim
- Inappropriate touching of a minor under the age of 14 years old or have the minor touch the defendant with sexual arousal intention
- Defendant utilizes fear or force to touch the minor under the age of 14 years old with sexual arousal intention
The specified touching of a minor or minor to defendant may have the façade of innocent behavior or not be performed in a fundamentally lewd manner.
Penalties for Violent Crimes in San Diego County
Penalties for violent crimes in San Diego County are severe and can result in life-altering consequences. Depending on the nature of the crime, individuals convicted of violent offenses such as rape, robbery, kidnapping, or murder may face:
- Lengthy Prison Sentences: Convictions can lead to decades or even life in prison, particularly for serious offenses like murder or attempted murder.
- Substantial Fines: Offenders may be required to pay hefty fines in addition to their prison time.
- Probation: In some cases, probation may be offered, but it comes with strict conditions and supervision.
- Permanent Criminal Record: A conviction can permanently impact your ability to find employment or pursue certain opportunities.
- Loss of Civil Rights: Those convicted may lose critical rights, such as the ability to vote or own firearms.
- Aggravating Factors: Factors like the use of a weapon or the extent of harm inflicted can lead to harsher sentences.
If you are facing violent crime charges, it’s crucial to have a skilled violent crime lawyer in San Diego County on your side. At the Law Offices of Kerry L. Armstrong, APLC, we are committed to providing aggressive defense strategies to minimize the impact of these penalties and protect your future.
Charged or Convicted of Violent Crimes? Contact an Attorney in San Diego County for a Free Consultation Today
For all the listed reasons, it is important to have great violent crime attorneys on your side.
The Law Offices of Kerry L. Armstrong come equipped with the best lawyers in order to represent and defend the accused on all violent crimes convictions. The talent of the lawyers is apparent due to the sensitive nature of these cases and the special attention each defendant receives throughout this tedious process.
If you or a loved one has been charged or convicted of any of these crimes, you need an experienced San Diego violent crime attorney.
Contact us today for a free initial consultation.
FAQs About Violent Crimes in San Diego County
Can a Violent Crime Charge Be Reduced or Dismissed in San Diego?
Yes, a skilled violent crimes attorney in San Diego County may be able to negotiate a reduction in charges or seek a dismissal based on issues such as insufficient evidence, procedural errors, or legal defenses.
How Can a Violent Crime Lawyer in San Diego County Help with My Defense?
A San Diego violent crime attorney will thoroughly review the evidence, investigate the circumstances surrounding your case, challenge the prosecution’s claims, and develop a strategic defense to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
What Should I Do if I’m Arrested for a Violent Crime in San Diego County?
If you’re arrested, remain silent and avoid making statements. Contact an experienced San Diego County violent crime lawyer immediately to ensure your rights are protected and you receive proper legal guidance through the process.
Where You Can Find Our San Diego Office