Torrance Violent Crime Lawyers

Violent Crimes CAses we Handle

At Ernenwein & Mathers, LLP, we defend against all types of violent crimes, including but not limited to the following: 

• Elder Abuse: This crime refers to physical, emotional, or financial abuse, neglect, or exploitation involving a person aged 65 or older.
• Robbery: This theft crime involves force, threat, or intimidation to take someone else's property while they are present.
• Murder: This is the unlawful killing of a human being with malice aforethought. It is the most serious of violent crimes.
• Arson: The crime of intentionally setting fire to property, whether it is forest land, a car, or residential property, for malicious purposes.
• Child Endangerment: This involves causing or permitting a child to suffer unjustifiable physical pain or mental suffering or endangering the child's health or safety.
• Assault and Battery: Assault refers to the intentional act that leads another person to fear immediate violence, while battery involves the actual physical contact or harm. 
• Weapons Charges: These crimes involve illegal possession, sale, manufacture, or trafficking of firearms or other deadly weapons.
• Involuntary Manslaughter: In California, involuntary manslaughter is the unintentional killing of another person due to criminal negligence or during the commission of a low-level unlawful act.
• Voluntary Manslaughter: Voluntary manslaughter, on the other hand, is an intentional killing that occurs in the "heat of passion" or during a sudden quarrel that provokes violence.
• Vehicle Manslaughter: Vehicle manslaughter involves causing death through negligent or unlawful driving.
• Domestic Violence: Domestic violence in California involves injury or threat of harm against spouses, intimate partners, and other domestic victims in crimes ranging from spousal battery to corporal injury and more. 
• Sexual Assault: Sexual assault refers to any sexual activity or conduct that occurs without the recipient’s explicit consent.
• Carjacking: Carjacking is a crime where a person forcibly steals a car from its owner, often while the owner is still present.
• Kidnapping: Kidnapping involves forcibly, or by any other means, taking a person from one place to another against their will.
• Criminal Threats: This involves threatening someone else with serious harm or death, often resulting in the person genuinely fearing for their or another’s safety. 

Potential Consequences of Violent Crime Convictions

No two criminal cases are alike, and the consequences you face will depend on various factors such as the severity of the alleged crime, the use of a deadly weapon, the victim's age or capacity, whether the victim was a public servant, and your criminal history, if applicable. Penalties can range from jail or prison time to hefty fines, long probation terms, restitution to the victim, and other court orders like substance abuse programs, batterers' programs, or mandatory sex offender registration for serious offenses.

The best way to understand what you may be facing and explore your options is to discuss your case with a knowledgeable attorney. At Ernenwein & Mathes, we have decades of experience providing aggressive criminal defense. We can help you identify alternatives to pleading guilty, such as diversion programs, and determine the best course of action based on your unique situation. Don’t plead guilty without understanding your options and the potential impact on your future.

Defending Against Violent Crimes

When facing violent crime charges, there are several defense strategies that can be used to challenge the prosecution's case. Some common defenses include:

• Self-Defense: If you were protecting yourself or others from immediate harm, self-defense can be a valid argument. The force used must be reasonable and proportional to the threat.
• Lack of Intent: For some violent crimes, intent is a key element. If you did not intend to harm the victim or commit the crime, this can be used as a defense.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, the accused may be wrongly identified. Eyewitness misidentification or confusion can be used to argue that the wrong person is being charged.
• False Accusations: It’s possible that the charges are based on false claims. This could be due to personal motives or misunderstandings, and it’s essential to examine the evidence and witness testimony carefully.

The Role of Evidence in Violent Crime Cases

In violent crime cases, evidence plays a crucial role in building a strong defense. Key types of evidence include:

• Forensic Evidence: This includes DNA, fingerprints, and ballistic evidence, which can prove or disprove involvement in the crime. Forensic analysis can be critical in showing whether someone is guilty or innocent.
• Eyewitness Testimony: While eyewitness accounts can be persuasive, they are also subject to error. Eyewitness misidentifications or biases can be challenged during cross-examination.
• Surveillance Footage: Video footage from security cameras or mobile phones can provide concrete evidence of what happened during the alleged crime, offering a clearer picture of the situation.
• Expert Testimony: Experts can be called to testify about various aspects of the case, such as the defendant’s mental state, the potential for injury, or the credibility of evidence. Their input can strengthen or weaken the case.

The Impact of Violent Crime Convictions on Your Future

A conviction for a violent crime can have lasting effects on various aspects of your life:

• Employment Opportunities: A criminal record can make it harder to find or keep a job. Many employers perform background checks and may reject applicants with violent crime convictions.
• Reputation: A conviction may damage your reputation, both professionally and personally. Friends, family, and colleagues may view you differently, which can lead to social isolation.
• Housing: Some landlords refuse to rent to individuals with criminal records, particularly those convicted of violent crimes. This can make it harder to find suitable housing.
• Social Stigma: A conviction for a violent crime can lead to social stigma and judgment from others. This can affect relationships, mental health, and overall quality of life.

Understanding these long-term consequences is important when deciding how to proceed in your case. A strong legal defense can help mitigate some of these negative impacts.

How Our Torrance Violent Crimes Lawyers Can Help

When it comes to legal matters, you want a law firm that is experienced, knowledgeable, and dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for you. At Ernenwein & Mathes, LLP, we have been serving clients in Torrance, CA for years, providing top-notch legal representation in various practice areas.

Here are a few reasons why you should choose us for your legal needs:

• Experienced Attorneys: Our team of attorneys has years of experience and expertise in handling a wide range of legal issues.
• Personalized Service: We understand that every case is unique, which is why we provide personalized attention and tailored solutions to meet your specific needs.
• Proven Track Record: We have a proven track record of success, with many satisfied clients who have benefited from our legal services.
• Client-Centered Approach: Your best interests are our top priority, and we will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

Whether you need assistance with family law, estate planning, or civil litigation, you can trust Ernenwein & Mathes, LLP to provide you with the legal representation you deserve. today to schedule a consultation.

FAQs About Violent Crime Cases

• What are the penalties for violent crimes in California?
  Penalties for violent crimes vary depending on the specific offense, but they can include long prison sentences, heavy fines, probation, and mandatory rehabilitation programs. Aggravating factors, such as the use of a weapon or the victim’s age, can lead to harsher sentences.
• Can a violent crime charge be reduced to a lesser offense?
  In some cases, it may be possible to have a violent crime charge reduced to a lesser offense. This often depends on the circumstances of the case, the strength of the evidence, and negotiations between your defense attorney and the prosecution.
• What should I do if I'm wrongly accused of a violent crime?
  If you are falsely accused of a violent crime, it is essential to remain calm and contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. Your attorney can help investigate the charges, gather evidence, and work to prove your innocence.
• How does the criminal justice system handle violent crime cases involving minors?
  Juvenile defendants accused of violent crimes are generally treated differently than adults. The juvenile justice system focuses more on rehabilitation, and minors may face lighter sentences, diversion programs, or detention instead of adult incarceration.
• What is the difference between assault and battery?
  Assault refers to an act that puts someone in fear of imminent harm, while battery involves actual physical contact or harm. Assault can be charged without any physical injury, but battery requires physical harm to the victim.
• Can a violent crime conviction be appealed?
  Yes, if you are convicted of a violent crime, you have the right to appeal the verdict. An appeal can be based on legal errors made during the trial or new evidence that could potentially change the outcome of the case.
• What is considered a violent crime in California?
  Violent crimes in California include offenses such as murder, robbery, assault, battery, domestic violence, and kidnapping. These crimes involve the use of force or the threat of force against another person.

Call our office at (310) 361-3068 or contact us online for a free consultation with a Torrance violent crime lawyer.