Los Angeles Violent Crimes Attorneys
Why Choose Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP for Violent Crimes Defense
We understand how overwhelming and frightening it can be to face accusations of a violent crime in Los Angeles. Whether the allegations involve assault, battery, robbery, domestic violence, manslaughter, murder, or another serious offense, these situations often arise from complex circumstances. At Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP, we recognize the profound stress this places on you and your family, and we are here to provide compassionate, steadfast support while delivering the strong defense you deserve.
Our firm has been a trusted advocate for clients throughout Southern California for decades, with our attorneys bringing more than 50 years of combined experience in criminal defense. As seasoned trial lawyers, we have successfully represented thousands of individuals in high-stakes cases, achieving dismissals, reduced charges, acquittals, and favorable outcomes tailored to each client’s unique situation. We approach every case with a deep understanding of California’s complex penal code, including enhancements under the Three Strikes Law, and employ proven strategies to challenge evidence, assert defenses, and protect your rights at every stage.
What sets Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP apart is our commitment to treating clients with respect and empathy while maintaining an aggressive stance in negotiations and the courtroom. We listen carefully to your side of the story, investigate thoroughly, and fight relentlessly to achieve the best possible resolution, because we know your future is on the line.
You do not have to face this challenging time alone. Contact Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. Our team is available to discuss your case, answer your questions, and begin building a personalized defense strategy. Take the first step toward protecting your rights.
What Are “Violent Crimes”?
Violent crimes can result in serious punishments and penalties if convicted. Depending upon the crime and the particular details of the circumstances, violent crimes can be classified as either misdemeanor or felony crimes, and the penalties that are incurred if convicted vary accordingly.
“Violent crimes” is a term used to describe many criminal charges, including:
- Homicide/Murder
- Attempted murder
- Manslaughter
- Vehicular manslaughter
- Rape
- Child molestation
- Aggravated Assault
- Assault with a weapon
- Battery
- Domestic violence
- Stalking
- Child abuse
- Kidnapping
These crimes are all considered violent in nature, which means they will have harsher sentencing and punishments than other crimes. When facing violent crime charges, you need an aggressive and knowledgeable criminal defense attorney representing you and fighting for your innocence and freedom.
If you are facing violent crime charges, small or large, contact a Los Angeles violent crime defense attorney from our firm today to discuss your case and get started on your defense.
Potential Penalties for Conviction of a Violent Crime in Los Angeles
Violent felonies in California are defined under Penal Code § 667.5(c) and are prosecuted aggressively, but penalties vary significantly depending on the exact nature of the offense, aggravating or mitigating factors, your prior record, and the unique details of the case.
In general, convictions for violent crimes can result in:
- Substantial prison sentences, ranging from a few years to life imprisonment
- Significant fines, often up to $10,000 or more
Enhancements for factors like the use of a firearm, great bodily injury to the victim, or gang involvement, can add years to a sentence
Some examples of possible penalties include:
- Assault with a deadly weapon is often punishable by 2 to 4 years in state prison, though it may be charged as a misdemeanor in some circumstances
- Robbery typically carries 2 to 9 years, depending on whether it is first- or second-degree
- Rape generally involves 3 to 8 years in prison, with longer terms if the victim is a minor
- Voluntary manslaughter may result in 3, 6, or 11 years
- Second-degree murder carries 15 years to life
- First-degree murder is punishable by 25 years to life, or life without parole in cases with special circumstances (the death penalty remains on the books but is subject to a statewide moratorium on executions)
Many violent felony convictions also count as “strikes” under California’s Three Strikes Law (Penal Code § 667). A second strike can double the sentence for a new felony, while a third strike may lead to 25 years to life.
It is important to remember that these are broad overviews as no two cases are identical, and early involvement of an experienced attorney can dramatically influence the outcome, potentially leading to reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or even dismissal. Our team at Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP has a proven record of mitigating penalties and protecting clients’ futures in even the most challenging violent crime cases.
If you or a loved one is facing these allegations, please reach out for a confidential consultation.
Long-Term Impact on Your Life and Future if Convicted
A violent crime conviction extends far beyond immediate penalties, creating lasting barriers that affect every aspect of your personal and professional life. In California, a felony record is permanent unless expunged, and even then, certain restrictions persist.
Key long-term consequences include:
- Employment Challenges: Many employers conduct background checks, and a violent felony can disqualify you from jobs in fields like education, healthcare, finance, or government. It may also lead to loss of professional licenses.
- Housing Difficulties: Landlords often deny rentals to those with violent convictions, and you may be ineligible for public housing programs.
- Family and Custody Issues: Under California Family Code § 3044, a presumption against custody applies if convicted of domestic violence or similar offenses, potentially limiting parental rights.
- Voting and Civic Rights: Felons lose voting rights while incarcerated or on parole, and firearm ownership is permanently prohibited.
- Immigration Status: Non-citizens face deportation risks, even for lawful permanent residents.
- Social Stigma and Financial Strain: The emotional toll, combined with ongoing fines, probation fees, or sex offender registration (for applicable crimes), can hinder relationships and financial stability.
These impacts underscore the importance of mounting a strong defense to avoid conviction altogether.
Your Rights as an Accused Individual
As someone accused of a crime in California, you are protected by both the U.S. Constitution and state laws, ensuring fair treatment throughout the process. Understanding these rights is crucial to avoiding self-incrimination and building a solid defense.
Fundamental rights include:
- Right to Remain Silent: Under the Fifth Amendment, you cannot be compelled to testify against yourself. This is part of your Miranda rights, which must be read upon arrest.
- Right to an Attorney: You have the right to legal counsel at all stages, and if you can’t afford one, a public defender will be appointed.
- Right to Know the Charges: You must be informed of the accusations against you promptly, allowing time to prepare a defense.
- Right to Confront Witnesses: You can cross-examine accusers and challenge evidence in court.
- Right to a Speedy and Public Trial by Jury: Trials must be impartial, public, and conducted without undue delay.
- Protection from Unreasonable Searches: Evidence obtained illegally can be suppressed under the Fourth Amendment.
Violations of these rights can lead to case dismissal.
What to Do If You’ve Been Accused of Committing a Violent Crime
Being accused of a violent crime can be overwhelming, but your actions in the initial moments are critical to your defense. Stay calm and prioritize protecting your rights.
- Contact a Defense Attorney Immediately: Seek legal counsel before speaking to investigators. Firms like ours can intervene early to prevent charges from being filed.
- Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: Do not discuss the incident with police, friends, or family without an attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Do Not Consent to Searches: Politely decline any requests to search your person, vehicle, or home unless a warrant is presented.
- Document Everything: Note details of the accusation, interactions with law enforcement, and any witnesses. Avoid posting on social media.
- Preserve Evidence: If possible, preserve any exculpatory evidence, such as alibis or surveillance footage, and share it with your lawyer.
- Avoid Contact with the Accuser: This could lead to additional charges like witness tampering.
While every case is unique, prompt action can result in dropped charges or favorable plea deals.
What to Expect When Hiring an Attorney
Hiring a criminal defense attorney is a vital step in safeguarding your future. At Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP, we guide clients through every phase with transparency and expertise.
Here’s what you can anticipate:
- Initial Consultation: A free, confidential meeting to review your case, discuss charges, and outline potential strategies. We’ll assess evidence and explain your options.
- Case Investigation: Your attorney will gather facts, interview witnesses, and analyze police reports for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Legal Strategy Development: Based on details of your case, we’ll build a strategy that may include defenses like self-defense, mistaken identity, or insufficient evidence.
- Court Representation: From arraignment to trial, we’ll handle filings, negotiations, and advocacy, aiming for dismissals, reductions, or acquittals.
- Ongoing Communication: Expect regular updates, clear explanations of legal terms, and honest assessments of risks and costs.
Ready to defend your rights? Reach out to Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP today for legal guidance and relentless representation. Your future depends on it; let’s start building your defense now.
Why You Need Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP
At Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP, our attorneys are dedicated to providing our clients with the best defense they can find. With over 50 years of combined experience, we understand criminal law and know best how to defend you against these charges. Whether you were the victim of mistaken identity, false charges, or were acting in self-defense, our attorney will give you the best defense that may result in having your charges reduced or dropped, or successfully defended in courtroom litigation. Wherever you are located in Los Angeles and the surrounding areas, we are ready to serve you and defend you against your criminal charges.
Contact a Los Angeles violent crimes lawyer from our firm today if you are facing violent crimes charges and need aggressive and experienced legal representation.