San Antonio Violent Crime Lawyer

The type of charges against you will have a huge impact on the outcome of your case. If you’ve been charged with a violent crime in San Antonio, a criminal defense attorney can help you determine what sorts of penalties you may be facing. A few common charges for various violent crimes can be found below:

• Theft – Charges for theft depend on the type and value of the stolen goods and can range from a Class C misdemeanor to a third-degree felony. However, if you commit an assault or homicide during a theft, you will generally face higher charges.
• Assault – Depending on the person hurt and whether or not a deadly weapon was involved, this offense may carry charges ranging from a Class C misdemeanor to a first-degree felony for aggravated assault.
• Domestic Violence – Domestic violence charges typically carry a charge of at least a third-degree felony if an assault was involved.
• Sexual Assault – The lowest charge you’re likely to face for sexual assault is a second-degree felony, with vulnerable victims or the use of a weapon elevating the charges.
• Homicide – The charges for homicide vary depending on the type of offense. While criminally negligent homicide is typically a state jail felony, manslaughter is often charged as a second-degree felony, and murder is charged as a first-degree felony. Capital murder, the most severe offense, is charged as a capital felony, the only charge that can bring the death penalty.

Going through the legal process for criminal charges can be nerve-wracking, but having a capable attorney by your side can keep you protected as you navigate the legal system.

If you’re facing a criminal accusation or criminal charges, you may be facing a difficult road ahead. Knowing the steps to come can help you stay prepared and stay protected:

1. Reporting – First, the crime is reported or observed by a police officer.
2. Arrest and Charge – Next, police may file a criminal charge against you and make an arrest.
3. Arraignment – After your arrest, criminal proceedings will begin shortly, starting with an arraignment to establish your legal rights and the charges against you as well as give you a chance to make a plea.
4. Pretrial Proceedings – Before going to trial, you may go through several court hearings as your attorney and Texas prosecutors work to resolve your case.
5. Trial – If a plea bargain is not reached, your case will go to trial, during which time your trial lawyers will argue on your behalf.
6. Sentencing – Based on the outcome of your trial, the judge may impose a range of fines and penalties.
7. Appeal – You will have the chance to appeal the judgment against you after your sentence has been delivered.