Once you’ve been accused of a violent crime in Fort Worth or the surrounding area, your priority is probably staying out of jail. But being convicted of a violent crime can ruin your life in a lot of ways, not just a prison sentence.
If you don’t have a lawyer who knows how to defend you against these serious charges, you may face those penalties, sadly. You need an experienced Fort Worth violent crime lawyer who can help you avoid harsh penalties by fighting for your rights in court and negotiating with prosecutors on your behalf.
When you’re ready for a lawyer, reach out to Hoeller McLaughlin PLLC for guidance.
Types of Violent Criminal Offenses
Violent crimes are offenses that cause severe bodily injury or leave victims coping with the severity of what they’ve been through. But what types of crimes does that include? The list below is a sample of the violent crime charges you may be suffering:
- Murder
- Assault with a weapon or causing bodily harm
- Sexual assault or rape
- Child endangerment or abuse
- Home invasion
- Robbery
- Domestic violence or battery
If you’re facing any of these charges or others that fall under the definition of a violent crime, it’s critical to get a lawyer as soon as possible. Calling a lawyer before you go to court may help you avoid more serious penalties.
Texas uses capital punishment, also called the death penalty, for certain charges, like murder. In these cases, your life may be literally on the line.
Texas also allows people to defend themselves with deadly force if they feel that their life or property is in danger, which can also impact your case. But to legally use deadly force, you must reasonably believe that you’re in grave danger, and you can’t use more force than is necessary. You can’t use deadly force if there’s no such threat.
Lawyers Are Experienced Negotiators
If you are innocent and wrongly accused, an attorney can fight for your freedom in court. Your lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf. If the prosecution isn’t willing to work with your lawyer, they can fight for reduced or dropped charges in the courtroom.
An experienced lawyer can help you minimize your charges by:
- Negotiating with the prosecutor
- Fighting your case in court
- Plea bargaining
- Applying for an expungement or sealing if your case is dropped
Of course, the penalties for violent crimes are severe and can include mandatory minimum sentences, which means that judges can’t go below the specified sentence regardless of the circumstances. While your lawyer may be unable to avoid all charges for your case, they can minimize the damage to your future and possibly have the charges dropped.
Call Now to Discuss Your Case
Time is of the essence if you have been arrested for a violent crime. The attorneys at Hoeller McLaughlin PLLC are ready to help right away, so your attorney can start building your defense now, not later. The more time you have to act, the better.
A Fort Worth violent crime lawyer can help you get out of jail while awaiting trial, build a strong defense, and much more. If you are charged with a violent crime, reach us by phone at 817-334-7900 or fill out our online contact form below.
