Violent crimes are offenses that involve an alleged victim receiving physical harm or threats of violence from the defendant. If you have been accused of committing a violent crime in the Lake of the Ozarks area, you need to contact an attorney knowledgeable in criminal law as soon as possible to begin protecting your rights. The penalties for violent crimes are typically severe and you could be facing a mandatory minimum sentence or even life in prison.
No matter how serious the violent crime charge is, you deserve adequate legal representation. At the law firm of Deputy & Mizell, L.L.C., our Lake of the Ozarks criminal defense attorneys have what it takes to defend you in this complex situation and we are prepared to fight for you. Contact our criminal defense lawyers today!
Types of Violent Crimes We Defend
Criminal law is primarily enforced on the state level. Missouri categorizes violent crimes into misdemeanors and felonies and then broken down further into classes. Misdemeanors usually involve minor injuries or harm to the alleged victim. Felonies usually involve severe bodily injury, intent to kill, or the use of a deadly weapon.
In some cases, when injuries to an alleged victim are caused unintentionally, it may result in a violent crime charge even though the defendant did not act with the intention to cause those injuries.
Examples of violent crimes include:
- Arson
- Robbery
- Aggravated assault and battery
- Manslaughter
- Murder
Defenses for Violent Crimes
Our Lake of the Ozarks criminal defense attorneys will explore all possible avenues to find the best strategy for your defense. While each defense is based on the facts of the individual case, these are the most common violent crime defenses:
- Acting in self-defense – The defendant believes physical force was necessary to protect themselves.
- Defense of property or premises – The defendant believes physical force was necessary to prevent theft of their property or criminal trespass onto their premises.
- Defense of a third person – The defendant believes physical force was necessary to defend a third party from harm.
- Duress – The defendant was forced to engage in violent crime by use of physical force or threat that could result in serious injury.
- Unintentional or reckless actions – The defendant acted in the heat of passion or the repercussions of their actions were not intentional.
- Lack of mental state – The defendant did not have the required mental state or they did not act knowingly, recklessly, or intentionally.
Why you Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Having a skilled violent crime attorney in your corner is imperative for building the best possible defense. Our criminal defense attorneys use our years of experience and passion to defend our clients and work tirelessly to:
- Thoroughly investigate your case
- Find flaws in the prosecutor’s claim and evidence
- Cross-examine witnesses
- Line up witnesses and credible experts in your favor
- Negotiate and advise on plea bargain offers from the prosecution
Speak to a Violent Crime Lawyer
Our criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to your case and will protect your rights. Deputy & Mizell is here to help, no matter how big or small the violent crime charge is. Contact us right away by phone at 417-344-8055 or toll-free at 1-877-532-2191 or visit our website!
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