All crimes are serious matters, but violent crimes receive especially harsh scrutiny from courts and the general public. Criminal offenses are typically charged as lesser misdemeanors or serious felonies. While not all violent crimes are felonies, they are more likely to be charged as felonies than misdemeanors. As such, violent crimes are punished more harshly with longer prison terms and higher fines.
Violent crimes have a nasty habit of sticking with you long past the end of your trial and even your sentence. You must report your conviction for a violent felony on things like job applications, housing applications, and loans. You could lose significant opportunities because of your criminal record. A good attorney will stand by your side and fight your charges so that you do not miss any future opportunities.
If you face charges for any violent crimes, felonies or misdemeanors, you need to call a lawyer immediately. Out Salt Lake City violent crimes defense attorneys can help you challenge your charges in court and protect your rights in the process. Call Overson Law, PLLC at (801) 758-2287 to set up a free, private legal consultation.
Types of Criminal Cases Handled
We handle all types of violent crimes in Salt Lake City. It is important to understand that there are multiple types of violent crimes and not every attorney is equipped to handle every case. The Utah Criminal Code classified violent crimes under Offenses Against the Person. These offenses include assault, criminal homicide, kidnapping and trafficking, and sex offenses. A few specific examples of violent crimes handled by our Salt Lake City violent crimes defense lawyers are:
- Assault
- Aggravated Assault
- Murder
- Manslaughter
- Negligent Homicide
- Kidnapping Offenses
- Rape
- Sexual Abuse
- Domestic Violence
Our team has the skills and experience to handle your criminal charges for a violent offense. Violent offenses are not the same in every case, so we treat each case with the individual attention it needs and deserves. Charges for violent crimes may vary if a deadly weapon was involved, a child was the victim, or there was serious bodily harm. Call our Salt Lake City violent crimes defense attorneys for help as soon as possible.
Penalties for Felony and Misdemeanor Crimes
Felonies and misdemeanors are very different charges, so the sentencing will vary greatly between the two. Felonies are more serious and tend to include more violent crimes. However, some violent crimes and other minor offenses are classified as misdemeanors and punished less harshly.
According to the Utah Criminal Code § 76-3-204, misdemeanors are broken down into three distinct classes. Class C misdemeanors are the least serious and can be punished by a jail term of no more than 90 days. Next are Class B misdemeanors which are punishable by no longer than 6 months in jail. Finally, the most serious misdemeanors are Class A and are penalized by no more than 364 days in jail.
Felonies are far more serious and carry stricter penalties. Not only that, but incarceration for felonies is also in state prisons, not county jails. Under the Utah Criminal Code § 76-3-203, felonies are broken down by degree. A third-degree felony is the least serious and is punishable by a prison term of no more than 5 years. The next step up is a second-degree felony. This kind of felony is punishable by at least 1 year in prison, but no more than 15. Finally, first-degree felonies, the most severe, can be punished with a prison sentence of at least 5 years but could be for as long as life.
Your charges will depend on the unique circumstances of your case. However, some offenses are so violent and heinous that they are treated separately from other violent crimes. A capital felony is punishable by death, a prison term of 25 years to life, or a prison term of life without parole. Call our Salt Lake City violent crimes defense attorneys for help with your charges.
Enhanced Sentencing
The penalties for felonies and misdemeanors mentioned previously tend to be more like a baseline when determining a final sentence. Certain offenses may be subject to enhanced penalties if the circumstances allow it, such as in the following scenarios:
- Violent crimes involving a deadly weapon
- Hate crimes
- Violent crimes involving children
- Domestic violence offenses
- Certain crimes committed in prohibited locations, like schools.
Different crimes may call for different methods of enhancing a sentence. For some crimes, an enhanced sentence may simply be an upgrade in your charges. For example, your Class B felony could turn into a Class A felony. There may be additional penalties for other crimes, such as restrictions on gun rights in cases of domestic violence. If you believe your case may involve an enhancement of penalties, call our Salt Lake City violent crimes defense lawyers immediately.
What to Do If you were Arrested for a Violent Crime in Utah
If you were arrested for a violent crime, the first thing you should do is call an attorney for help. If possible, contact an attorney immediately after being arrested and inform the police you will be invoking your right to remain silent until your attorney is present. You have a right to have a lawyer with you while the police question you after an arrest.
Together, you and your lawyer can begin building a defense against any charges you face. The early stages of a criminal trial are crucial as you will be arraigned, enter a plea, and figure out bail. Having a lawyer at each of these stages will improve your chances of success. Our Salt Lake City violent crimes attorneys can help you every step of the way.
Call Our Salt Lake City Violent Crimes Defense Attorneys Today
If you have been charged with a violent crime, please contact our Salt Lake City violent crimes defense lawyers now. We are prepared to defend you against these charges and fight for your rights in court. Depending on the nature of your charges, the stakes could be very high, and you will need an experienced attorney by your side. Call Overson Law, PLLC at (801) 758-2287 to schedule a free legal consultation.