In this article, you will learn…
- What the consequences of a violent crime are,
- What defenses may be available to you in a violent crime case, and
- What charges can be expunged from your record in VA.
What Are The Consequences Of A Violent Crime Conviction?
The consequences of a violent crime conviction are dramatic. Per the Virginia sentencing guidelines, even a person who doesn’t have much of a prior record will be looking at a range of 30 to 60 years for first-degree murder and 14 to 25 years for second-degree murder.
The robbery statute in Virginia has recently changed, but penalties can still range from a year up to 20 years to even life, depending on the classification of the specific robbery charge.
Rape and carjacking each carry a maximum sentence of life in prison.
While the prison sentences alone are drastic and significant, there are also other repercussions that will negatively affect your life even if you don’t end up serving decades in prison. Convictions for certain violent crimes may affect your ability to live where you want to live or work where you want to work.
There are life-altering consequences for being convicted of a violent crime, which is why it becomes significantly important to have an attorney that can access the case property and fight for you to have a greater chance of a good outcome in these cases.
What Are The Kind Of Defenses That You, As An Attorney, Would Use For Such Violent Crimes?
There’s a wide range of possible defenses that can be used in violent crime cases, but the defense depends on…
- The type of charge,
- Whether it resulted in death,
- Whether there was an element of self-defense,
- If there is uncertain evidence,
- The amount of force, threat, or intimidation used in a robbery or carjacking, or
- The amount of force or violence used in a rape.
The only way to really determine what defense might be right for your specific case is to consult with and hire an experienced attorney who can evaluate the facts of the case. An experienced attorney will be well-versed in the laws and statutes at play and will be able to piece together a defense based on the law and the facts present.
Can You Expunge A Violent Crime Conviction From Your Record In Virginia?
No, you can’t have a conviction expunged from your record in Virginia. The only charges you’re able to have expunged from your record are those you were found not guilty of, those that were dismissed, or nolle prossed.
For more information on Sex Crime Offenses In The State Of Virginia, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (804) 207-9699 today.