Norfolk Violent Crimes Lawyers

Accused of a Crime of Violence in VA? Reach Out to Us for Your Defense.

If you have been accused of a violent crime in Norfolk, VA, your entire life can be upended. The allegations alone can cause some to make snap and negative judgments about your character. This can make it feel like they believe you are guilty of the crime, even though you are innocent until proven otherwise. If you are convicted of the alleged offense, you can be imprisoned, fined, and face various hurdles. With a criminal record, it can be difficult to get a job, find a place to live, or even qualify for government benefits. To seek to avoid or minimize the penalties, you need an aggressive defense on your side.

Backed by over 100 years of combined experience, our team at Protogyrou Law knows how to fight serious charges. We have defended thousands of clients against a range of charges and have tried hundreds of jury trials. Although many criminal matters are settled out of court, we will prepare for your case as if it will go to trial. Our Norfolk violent crimes attorneys will examine your case from every angle to build well-thought-out counterarguments. Because we work as a team, your case will benefit from having input and insight from multiple attorneys concerned with working toward an optimal result on your behalf.

To get started with a free consultation, call us at (757) 267-6611 or contact us onlinetoday.

What Is a Violent Crime?

In general, a violent crime is when the alleged offender used or threatened to use physical force against another person. Because these offenses can result in someone being seriously injured or even killed, the Commonwealth takes them very seriously. The prosecution may seek maximum penalties upon a conviction. In Virginia, violent crimes range from Class 1 misdemeanors to Class 1 felonies, which means a guilty verdict can result in years to life imprisonment and thousands of dollars in fines.

Types of Violent Offenses

Various offenses in Virginia are considered violent crimes; they include, but are not limited to:

• Homicide: Homicide involves the unlawful killing of another. Offenses include aggravated murder (Code of Virginia § 18.2-31), first- and second-degree murder (Code of Virginia § 18.2-32), and felony homicide (Code of Virginia § 18.2-33). These crimes are distinguished by the type of conduct involved and whether the intent was to cause another's death.
• Manslaughter: Manslaughter is distinct from murder in that it is typically not planned. It generally occurs in the heat of passion or when the alleged offender did not intend to kill the other person. In Virginia, both voluntary and involuntary manslaughter are Class 5 felonies.
• Kidnapping: Code of Virginia § 18.2-47 defines kidnapping as using force or deception to unlawfully detain, transport, or conceal another person. Generally, it is a Class 5 felony, but can be either a Class 1 misdemeanor or Class 6 felony if the alleged offender was the parent of the victim.
• Rape: Under Code of Virginia § 18.2-61, rape involves engaging in unlawful sexual intercourse with another person. Conduct can include having sex with someone against their will, when the other person is mentally incapacitated or physically helpless, or when the alleged victim is under 13 years of age. Rape is a felony punishable by up to life imprisonment.
• Malicious assault: A person may be prosecuted under Code of Virginia § 18.2-51 if they use physical force against someone with the intent to "maim, disable, disfigure, or kill" them. The offense is a Class 3 felony.
• Robbery: A person commits robbery when they use force or threat of force to unlawfully take someone else's property. Under Code of Virginia § 18.2-58, the offense can be charged as a Class 2, 3, 5, or 6 felony.
• Carjacking: Under Code of Virginia § 18.2-58.1, carjacking occurs when someone uses violence against another person to seize control of that individual's vehicle with the intent to deprive them of it temporarily or permanently. A conviction for this felony offense can result in 15 years to life in prison.
• Stalking: Code of Virginia § 18.2-60.3 provides that a person can be charged with stalking if they, on two or more occasions, engage in behavior against another person that makes the individual reasonably fear that they are at risk of bodily injury, sexual assault, or death. The crime is a Class 1 misdemeanor.

At Protogyrou Law, our Norfolk violent crimes lawyers defend against all types of charges. Whether the offense you have been accused of is listed above, you can turn to us for the legal representation you need.

What Are the Penalties for Violent Crimes in VA?

The punishments for a violent crime conviction depend on the facts of the case. Some offenses are considered more severe than others and are charged at a higher level or class.

Below are a few examples of potential conviction penalties:

• Aggravated murder:
  • Up to life imprisonment and
  • Up to $100,000 in fines
• Malicious assault:
  • 5 to 20 years of imprisonment and
  • Up to $100,000 in fines
• Manslaughter:
  • 1 to 10 years of imprisonment and/or
  • Up to $2,500 in fines
• Stalking:
  • Up to 12 months in jail and/or
  • Up to $2,500 in fines

Our violent crimes attorneys in Norfolk recognize the seriousness of these matters and the severe consequences attached to them. That is why we leverage our knowledge, skills, and resources to fight charges and seek optimal results.

Contact Our Firm for Violent Crime Defense

In a violent crime matter, there are two sides to the story. It is important that your voice is heard. Protogyrou Law is ready to learn about the facts of the case from your perspective and zealously advocate on your behalf.

Our Norfolk violent crimes lawyers will fight to protect your interests. Schedule a free consultation by calling us at (757) 267-6611 or submitting an online contact form.