Violent Crimes

An Overview of Violent Criminal Offenses

Violent crimes are generally some of the most serious criminal offenses a person may be accused of committing. These involve criminal acts committed against another person, involving the attempt, threat or infliction of bodily harm. The penalties for violent crimes are typically harsh and may threaten one's freedom or very life. In some states, for example, first degree murder is punishable by the death penalty. Many violent crimes also will count as "strikes" under a state's three strikes law, meaning a second "strike" will result in enhanced penalties and a third may result in a life prison sentence.

Specific state laws regarding violent crimes and their penalties will vary depending upon where you live, so it is important to discuss your case with a lawyer to determine what penalties apply in your state.

Types of Violent Crimes

Some common types of violent crimes are listed below. Please click on one of the topics for more information on a specific offense:

Murder
Though the specific definition may vary by state, murder may be defined as unlawfully killing another human being, with premeditation and malice aforethought. This violent crime may be classified as first degree murder or second degree murder depending on the circumstances of the alleged offense. Click here to read more about murder...

Manslaughter
A lesser form of criminal homicide than murder, manslaughter may involve the crime of killing another human being without preplanning or malice aforethought, such as by criminal negligence or in the heat of passion. A defendant may face charges of voluntary or involuntary manslaughter, depending on the particular case. Click here to read more about manslaughter...

Kidnapping
The basic description of kidnapping is taking another person by force, often for ransom. The specific definition may vary under state and federal law, as may the penalties that a defendant will face if convicted. Click here to read more about kidnapping...

Assault
A person who is accused of threatening or attempting to cause injury to another person may face assault charges. Depending on the jurisdiction in which the alleged offense occurred and whether the defendant is accused of using a deadly weapon, assault may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. Click here to read more about assault...

Battery
While assault may refer to an attempt or threat of bodily harm, battery may describe the act itself. Battery may also include touching another person against their will, even if no bodily injury is caused. Click here to read more about battery...

Rape
Also considered a sex crime, forcible rape may be considered a violent crime. This may involve forcing another person to engage in sexual intercourse against their will, by physical force or threats. Click here to read more about rape...

Domestic Violence
When violence occurs between family members, spouses, ex-spouses or people who share a residence, this may be referred to as domestic violence. These cases are aggressively investigated and harshly prosecuted nationwide. Click here to read more about domestic violence...

Carjacking
Carjacking is a violent theft crime. A defendant may face these charges if he or she is accused of taking another person's motor vehicle against their will and from their immediate possession or presence. Click here to read more about carjacking...

Robbery
Another violent theft crime, robbery is a type of theft committed by force, violence or threats of injury to another person. It is typically charged as a felony, with enhanced penalties if the defendant is accused of carrying or using a deadly weapon. Click here to read more about robbery...

Hate Crimes
Committing a crime against another person for reasons of prejudice due to their sexual orientation, race, nationality, religious or political beliefs or disability may be considered a hate crime. The FBI often investigates these offenses, and harsh penalties may be enforced upon those convicted of these criminal acts. Click here to read more about hate crimes...

Make sure you have competent defense counsel in the face of violent crime charges. Click here to find a local criminal defense attorney.