There are few crimes more heavily punishable than those involving violence. Please continue reading and reach out to our knowledgeable Bergen County criminal defense lawyer to learn more about violent crimes in New Jersey and how we can help fight your charges. Here are some of the questions you may have regarding the legal process ahead:
What are some examples of violent crimes in New Jersey?
There are various crimes that are classified as violent crimes in New Jersey, and, as you could imagine, many of them come with very serious penalties. Some examples of violent crimes in New Jersey are as follows:
- Armed Robbery
- Kidnapping
- Manslaughter
- Murder
- Sexual Assault
- Simple or Aggravated Assault
- Vehicular Homicide
What happens if I am charged with a violent crime in New Jersey?
When someone is arrested for a violent crime, they risk facing very serious penalties that may change the course of their life. In many cases, when an individual is charged with a first-degree crime, they will most likely face anywhere from 10 years to life in prison. Murder, rape, manslaughter, and other particularly heinous charges are generally classified as first-degree crimes.
However, even if you are charged with a second-degree violent crime, such as robbery or arson, you can face anywhere between 5-10 years of incarceration. Additionally, those facing violent crimes must understand that New Jersey’s No Early Release Act prohibits those convicted of certain criminal offenses from consideration for parole until at least 85% of their criminal sentence has been served. Rather obviously, if you have been charged with a violent crime, you have a lot on the line, which is why you must retain the services of an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney as soon as you can.
What is an aggravated charge?
In certain cases, when someone is charged with a crime, such as simple assault, though they are also charged with an additional crime, such as using a weapon to commit the act of assault, they may face an aggravated charge. An aggravated charge can significantly increase the severity of the initial sentencing. No matter your circumstances, if you’ve been charged with a crime, do not hesitate to speak with our New Jersey criminal defense attorneys today. We are here to help.
