Bel Air Violent Crime Lawyer
According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) statistics reported in the Baltimore Patch, there were 28,003 violent crimes that occurred across Maryland in 2016. In each of these cases, the police and courts work hard to convict a person for the crime to help prevent future crimes and keep the community safe for its citizens. Unfortunately, there are times that the law enforcement and legal system charge the wrong person or view their motive incorrectly.
If you have been charged with a violent crime in Bel Air or Columbia, it is imperative you seek legal counsel as soon as possible. At Schlaich & Thompson Chartered, we understand the seriousness of a violent crime charge and how it can impact your future. We will work hard on your behalf to get you the best possible outcome in your individual case.
A Person’s State of Mind During the Crime or Intent to Commit the Crime
When crimes are reported there is also an indication about the person’s state of mind while committing the crime. For instance, the defense may plead insanity, which argues that the defendant was not in their right mind due to a psychiatric illness. Intent is also an important consideration in court. Was the murder planned for weeks or was it a reckless driver who unintentionally committed vehicular homicide by speeding? A qualified defense attorney can help prove that the circumstances of your case should result in lesser charges.
Violent Crimes
The FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program distinguishes between four types of violent crimes. What each crime shares in common is that they involve either force or the threat of force. These offenses consist of the following:
- Murder and nonnegligent manslaughter – Homicide, or murder, is the intentional killing of another human being, excluding self defense. Manslaughter is the unintentional killing of another;
- Rape – Also referred to as sexual battery, rape involves genital penetration or sexual abuse of another without their consent;
- Robbery – Theft from a person with their knowledge of the theft (does not include pick pocketing);
- Aggravated Assault – This occurs when a person attacks another person with the intent to cause serious bodily injury. Often the assault includes the use of a weapon such as a gun or knife, but that is not a necessary requirement for aggravated assault charges.
If you have been charged with any of these offenses or an offense such as burglary, battery, aggravated battery simple assault, any type of domestic violence, or another violent crime, you need to contact an attorney at once to protect yourself from serious fines and time behind bars.
Contact Schlaich & Thompson Chartered Today
If you have been charged with a violent crime, you need to seek legal counsel immediately. Your future is at stake and it is important you have someone fighting on your behalf who understand the intricacies of Maryland criminal law. At Schlaich & Thompson Chartered, we work relentlessly to provide you with the best defense possible. Contact us for a free initial consultation at 410-838-0004.
