Violent Crime Lawyer in Kansas City
Police and prosecutors will likely pursue the harshest of punishments for those accused of committing violent crimes. Violent crimes can have a significant impact on the lives of others and are a threat to the wellbeing of society. If you’ve been accused of one of these most serious crimes, you need a lawyer you can trust to defend your rights, your freedom, and your future.
What is a Violent Crime?
Violent crimes are those crimes that involve force or threat of force. According to the FBI, in 2010, there were 1,246,248 violent crimes in the United States, which represents a decrease in the number of violent crimes from the previous year. The Missouri State Highway Patrol provides that the term “violent crimes” encompasses:
- Murder
- Rape
- Robbery
- Aggravated assault
Punishments for a Violent Crime Conviction
As some of the most serious crimes, violent crimes are felonies and the punishments are severe. The penalties for a violent crime conviction can include:
- Murder in the first degree means a punishment of death or life imprisonment without possibility of parole or probation. Other murder charges include second degree murder, voluntary manslaughter, and involuntary manslaughter.
- Rape can mean a sentence of up to life imprisonment without eligibility for parole or probation.
- Robbery is a Class B or Class A felony which carry a prison term of ten to thirty years or life imprisonment.
- Aggravated assault can result in conviction of a Class A felony with a ten to thirty year prison term or life imprisonment.
Enhanced Penalties for Those With a Felony Record
Missouri law provides for enhanced punishments for those that have been convicted of one or more prior felonies. You are considered a prior offender in the state if you have been determined guilty of one felony. You are a persistent offender if you’ve been found guilty of two or more felonies committed at different times. Finally, you are a dangerous offender if you murdered or endangered the life of another or inflicted, or attempted to inflict, serious physical injury to another and had been convicted of a Class A, B, or dangerous felony.
Violent Crimes Charges Require a Trustworthy Defense Lawyer
When charged with committing a violent crime, you face life-altering punishment and a serious threat to your freedom. You should not go through the legal process alone, and under the United States Constitution you are entitled to a legal defense. You need a criminal defense attorney that you can trust will fight for your rights and provide sound legal advice throughout the criminal process. Contact the lawyers at the KC Defense Counsel to discuss the facts of your case and any options available to you.
Other Criminal Defense Practice Areas:
