Our seasoned criminal defense lawyers at Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP proudly represent clients of all backgrounds who are facing a variety of criminal charges. When clients turn to us to advocate for their rights, we make it our top priority to help them understand each charge against them and all of their legal defense options. Below, our criminal defense team discusses the five most common criminal charges our clients face.
#1: Violent Crimes
When physical harm is threatened or inflicted on an individual, it is considered a violent crime. A variety of offenses can be charged as violent crimes, including:
- Aggravated assault
- Assault with a deadly weapon
- Murder
- Non-negligent manslaughter
- Robbery
- Forcible rape
In certain situations, child abuse, elder abuse, gun violence, domestic violence, and some other acts involving violence can also be considered violent crimes.
#2: Drug Offenses
Drug offenses can involve buying, selling, or trafficking illegal substances. Every year, thousands of people in California are arrested on drug-related crimes. Although arrest rates for drug crimes have decreased since marijuana was legalized in the state, drug offenses related to the use and abuse of legal and illegal substances remain a common cause for arrest.
#3: Crimes Related to Alcohol
Driving while intoxicated and public intoxication are two of the most common crimes related to alcohol. Driver can be charged with DUI if they are mentally or physically impaired while they are behind the wheel of a vehicle. Public intoxication, commonly referred to as “drunk in public,” occurs when an individual consumes enough alcohol for a law enforcement officer to claim they are a danger to themselves or others.
#4: Property Crimes
With the exception of arson, most property crimes don’t result in injured victims or casualties. There are four types of property crimes: burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. Burglary, also called breaking and entering, occurs when a person unlawfully enters a structure to commit theft or felony. Larceny-theft involves the unlawful taking, carrying, or riding away with property that was in possession of another party. Motor vehicle theft involves the illegal acquisition of cars. SUVs, trucks, buses, motorcycles, etc. Arson involves the willful burning of property with malicious intention.
#5: Fraud
Fraud occurs when an individual misrepresents certain materials and information to coerce another person to act or respond to that material. With most fraud cases, the misrepresentation results in financial loss to the victim. Common examples of fraud include inheritance scams, identity theft, and lottery scams.
Our Criminal Defense Team Will Fight for You
No matter what crime you have been accused of, it is crucial to seek qualified legal representation right away if you want to protect your rights and future. At Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP, we know firsthand how challenging the criminal justice system can be if you are accused or convicted of a crime. That is why we are here to guide you through every step of your criminal case. We understand the various intricacies involved with criminal court cases, and we are prepared to put our skills and resources to work for you today.
If you would like to schedule a case consultation with our firm, please give us a call today at (888) 643-2943 or contact us online.