NYC Violent Crime Attorney

Violent crimes are some of the most serious offenses in the New York criminal justice system. These charges carry lengthy prison sentences, heavy fines, and a criminal record. If you are facing charges for a violent crime, it is crucial to have a skilled New York violent crime lawyer on your side to protect your rights and fight for your freedom.

Led by NYC violent crime attorney and former prosecutor Mehdi Essmidi, we have experience from both sides of the courtroom, which gives us the tools to build strong defenses for our clients. Whether you were charged with a misdemeanor or felony, we have years of criminal law experience defending clients against violent crime accusations in NY. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Violent Crimes Our Criminal Defense Attorneys Handle

Assault

Assault cases often involve complex questions of intent, self-defense, and witness reliability. Potential defense approaches include examining inconsistent witness accounts, reviewing surveillance footage, and considering self-defense claims where appropriate. First-time offenders may have options for reduced charges or diversion programs depending on case circumstances.

Homicide

As the most serious charges in our legal system, homicide allegations require meticulous defense preparation. Important factors may include forensic evidence analysis, mental state considerations, and possible procedural violations during the investigation. Each homicide case presents unique challenges requiring individualized defense strategies.

Kidnapping

Kidnapping allegations often come up in domestic disputes or situations where the intent isn’t clear-cut. Defenses might explore the relationship between the parties, whether there was consent rather than coercion, or if the situation was misjudged as a crime. These cases tend to have layers that require careful unpacking.

Robbery

The distinction between theft and robbery hinges on questions of force or intimidation. Key defense considerations typically include analyzing surveillance evidence, evaluating witness credibility, and examining whether the elements of the crime as charged are fully supported by evidence. Robbery charges can sometimes be reduced based on the specific circumstances of the incident.

Sexual Assault

These cases require both legal skill and discretion. Defense strategies may involve examining communication between parties, reviewing evidence-collection procedures, and addressing consent issues. Cases sometimes involve complex questions of credibility and context that require careful legal analysis.

Weapons Offenses

Weapons charges tie into constitutional rights, like gun ownership or search protections, and rules about what counts as illegal. Key questions often include whether the police search was legal, if the weapon fits the law’s definition, and how both state and federal rules apply. 

Stalking

Stalking charges often involve digital evidence, prior relationships, and intent. Defense strategies may include challenging the interpretation of communications, proving a lack of intent to cause fear, or demonstrating misidentification. False accusations and misunderstandings can play a significant role in these cases.

Terrorism

Terrorism-related allegations require a sophisticated defense strategy due to their severe penalties. Key defense aspects may involve constitutional rights, intent analysis, and challenging the classification of alleged actions as terrorism. Procedural errors and improper evidence collection are also important defense angles.

Strangulation

Often linked to domestic violence cases, strangulation allegations can hinge on medical evidence, witness testimony, and prior relationship history. Defense strategies may involve disputing injury claims, presenting alternative explanations, or challenging inconsistencies in the accuser’s statements.

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence cases often involve high emotions and competing narratives. Defense considerations include examining credibility issues, potential false accusations, and self-defense arguments. Protective orders and custody disputes may also influence case dynamics, making a well-prepared legal strategy essential.

Violent Crime Investigations

If you’re facing charges for a violent crime, understanding the legal process may help you know what lies ahead. The journey from arrest to trial can be intimidating at times, but having an experienced attorney by your side can make a huge difference.

Arrest and Charges: The process starts with an arrest and the formal reading of charges. It’s important to remember you have the right to remain silent, and anything you say can be used against you in court. You also have the right to an attorney.

Bail Hearing: After your arrest, a judge determines whether you’re eligible for bail. This decision is based on the severity of the alleged crime, criminal history, and whether the accused is considered a flight risk.

Discovery: During this time, both sides gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and more.

Pre-Trial Motions: Before trial, both sides can file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges. If there are issues with how evidence was collected or if there’s insufficient evidence to support the charges, your defense can file appropriate motions on your behalf.

Trial: If a case goes to trial, the defense and the accusation will present their case before a judge or jury. This includes opening statements, witness testimony, cross-examinations, closing arguments, and jury deliberation.

Sentencing: If you’re found guilty, a judge determines your sentence based on guidelines for the crime, criminal history, and other factors.

Common Defenses Against Violent Crime Charges

While every situation is unique, several defense strategies are frequently used to challenge violent crime allegations:

Self-Defense: If accused of using force against another person, self-defense might be a defense if we can prove a reasonable belief of imminent danger, and that force was necessary to protect oneself or another person.

Lack of Evidence: The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is insufficient, inconsistent, or lacks credibility, we may challenge its validity and work to have charges reduced or dismissed.

False Accusation or Mistaken Identity:  In some instances, individuals face wrongful accusations stemming from misunderstandings, mistaken identities, or fabricated claims. The defense may examine the case, scrutinizing witness statements and evidence to uncover inconsistencies in the prosecution’s narrative.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

At the Law Offices of Mehdi Essmidi, we understand the impact that being charged with or convicted of violent crimes can have on your life.

Our criminal defense lawyers are dedicated to fighting for the best possible outcome in your case. Contact our law firm today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you protect your rights and your freedom.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a criminal lawyer defend violent crimes in NYC?

When facing violent crime charges in New York City, an experienced criminal defense attorney can help investigate your case, challenge evidence, question witness credibility, and develop strategic defense approaches.

What are violent felonies in New York?

In New York State, violent felonies are categorized by severity. A Class B felony (such as assault in the first degree) can result in up to 25 years in prison. A Class C felony (like robbery in the second degree) carries up to 15 years, while a Class D felony (such as assault in the second degree) can lead to up to 7 years of jail time. Each classification has different minimum sentencing requirements and potential for early release.

Can criminal defense lawyers help with cases that don’t involve violence?

Yes, criminal defense lawyers handle criminal offenses beyond violent crimes. Our criminal defense attorneys also defend in white-collar crimes, drug offenses, theft, and other non-violent criminal charges. The approach is different from violent crime cases, but the need for skilled legal representation is equally important.

How can a criminal record impact my case?

Prior criminal records may lead to enhanced penalties for new criminal offenses, particularly in New York. A knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer may work to minimize the impact of past convictions and develop strategies to prevent your current situation from resulting in severe consequences.

What if my case is based on law enforcement testimony?

Cases involving testimony from law enforcement officers require special attention. A criminal defense lawyer will likely focus on investigating potential procedural violations, bias, or inconsistencies in officer testimony. In New York, challenging such testimony effectively can significantly impact a criminal case.