St. Louis Violent Crime Attorney

Fighting For Those Who Have Been Arrested for a Violent Criminal Offense in Missouri

Any crime involving violence can be heavily punished in Missouri. State laws harshly penalize criminal actions that result in harm to others. Many times, violent crimes may be charged as felonies, and prosecutors are likely to seek the maximum penalties when the alleged victim is injured or killed—even if it was unintended.

At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, we firmly believe that everyone accused of a crime deserves the best legal representation. Our St. Louis criminal defense attorneys, Mark Hammer, and Nicole Chiravollatti, have more than 60 years of combined legal experience and are committed to protecting your rights. If you need tough negotiators and proven trial lawyers, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Call (314) 334-3807 or contact us online today for a free consultation with our St. Louis violent crimes lawyer.

What Is a Violent Crime?

A violent crime is defined as an offense in which a person threatens or uses force upon another person. The violence could be the objective of the crime, such as murder, or it could be the method in which another crime was committed, such as robbery.

Violent crimes could include any of the following:

• Armed Robbery: This is the act of stealing or attempting to steal someone else's property while using a weapon or something that appears to be a weapon. Persons convicted of armed robbery, also known as aggravated robbery, could face felony charges.
• Assault & Battery: Assault is causing or attempting to cause physical injury or fear of physical harm to another person. This type of offense could be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the seriousness of the act. Battery involves intentionally touching someone in a forceful, violent, or offensive way.
• Child Abuse: This is a complicated offense that can include different types of actions involving harm to children. Depending on the circumstances, child abuse can be a misdemeanor or a felony.
• Domestic Violence: This can be any type of physical or emotional abuse that is committed by one family member or household member to another. Offenses include assault, neglect, threats, stalking, or harassment.
• Kidnapping: Kidnapping involves knowingly restraining someone to demand a ransom, use as a hostage, engage in criminal sexual conduct or child sex abuse, take them to another state, or force them into servitude. Kidnapping is a serious felony that can be punished by up to life in prison.
• Manslaughter / Murder: Manslaughter and murder are different legal classifications for the unlawful killing of another human being. If the killing was done without planning, then it is classified as manslaughter. If the killing was done with forethought, then it is classified as murder.
• Vehicular Manslaughter: This is defined as the killing of a person while operating a vehicle negligently. Vehicular manslaughter could result from drunk driving or breaking traffic laws.

What Are My Rights Following a Violent Crime Charge?

When charged with a violent crime, it is crucial to understand the rights afforded to you under the law. You maintain several fundamental legal rights, including:

• The Right to Remain Silent: Under the Fifth Amendment, you can remain silent when questioned by law enforcement. Anything you say to the police can be used against you in court, which makes it crucial to invoke this right until you have legal counsel present. Remaining silent prevents self-incrimination and ensures that your statements are not omitted from context.
• The Right to Legal Representation: You have the right to be represented by an attorney throughout the legal process. Having an experienced attorney is critical to navigating the complexities of the criminal justice system. We can challenge the evidence, develop defense strategies, and advocate for your rights in court.
• The Right to a Fair Trial: You are permitted to a fair and impartial trial. This includes the right to present evidence in your defense, the right to cross-examine witnesses, and the right to a jury of your peers. A qualified attorney will ensure that all procedural safeguards are upheld during your trial and that your rights are protected at every stage of the case.
• The Right to Bail: In most cases, you have the right to request bail following your arrest. A judge will then decide whether you can be released from custody while awaiting trial. Depending on the circumstances of the case, we can argue for reasonable bail terms or even for your release on personal recognizance.
• The Right to Challenge Evidence: You have the right to challenge the prosecution's evidence. This may include questioning the legality of search and seizure procedures, disputing the reliability of witness testimony, or challenging forensic evidence. We can identify any weaknesses in the prosecution's case and leverage those weaknesses to your advantage.

What are the Penalties for Violent Crimes in Missouri?

If you are convicted of a violent crime in Missouri, the consequences may affect you for the rest of your life and cost you your job, your family, your relationships, and even your freedom. Possible penalties for a violent crime conviction include:

• Up to life in prison
• Large criminal fines
• A permanent felony record
• Difficulty getting a job or finding a place to live
• Losing your professional license and your career in medicine, law, teaching, nursing, pharmacy, or other licensed profession
• Immigration visa or green card revocation, citizenship application denial, or deportation (if you’re a non-U.S. citizen)

Contact Our Violent Crime Lawyer in St. Louis Today

If you are facing any one of these charges, be sure to call our St. Louis violent crime lawyers at The Hammer Law Firm, LLC. Violent crimes are often charged with felony penalties, resulting in a lengthy prison sentence, hefty fines, and life-changing repercussions.

Our legal team has successfully defended our clients in over 100 criminal jury trials, as well as hundreds of other contested hearings and bench trials. No matter the complexity of your case, we are prepared to stand by you and your family during this arduous process. Time is crucial, so we encourage you to schedule a free case evaluation as soon as possible.

Call (314) 334-3807 or contact us online today to speak with a professional. By contacting our firm, you can begin learning about the specific charges you face and how our St. Louis violent crime attorney can help.