Fairfax Violent Crimes Lawyer
Represents defendants accused of violent crimes
Crimes of violence happen every day in Virginia. In 2018, for instance, more than 86,000 “simple” assaults were reported to law enforcement authorities in this state, along with more than 10,000 aggravated assaults, more than 5,800 sexual assaults, and 391 homicides.
Violent crimes are the most severely punished crimes in Virginia’s justice system. A conviction for a crime of violence may be penalized with fines and jail time, and in the most serious cases, with a prolonged prison term. The death penalty may be imposed for first-degree murder.
The penalties are harsh because crimes of violence so often lead to serious injuries and fatalities for the victims and innocent bystanders.
which crimes are considered violent crimes in fairfax?
A violent crime is a crime where violence is threatened or perpetrated, with or without a weapon, against the victim. Violent crimes in Virginia include:
- homicide (including murder, manslaughter, and vehicular manslaughter)
- kidnapping and abduction
- aggravated assault, “simple” assault, and battery
- rape and sexual assault
- robbery (both armed and unarmed)
- harassment and hate crimes
- domestic violence and criminal threats
- arson
what are the consequences of a violent felony conviction?
A conviction for a violent felony triggers not only the most severe legal consequences, but it also means facing serious extra-legal consequences. Your career could be destroyed if you are convicted of a crime of violence. Your family could be devastated.
If you hold a professional license in Virginia, a violent crime conviction will trigger disciplinary action by your professional licensing board. If you are an immigrant in Virginia, a conviction for a crime of violence could put you at risk for deportation.
what are the legal penalties for a violent felony conviction? put experience to work for you
Felonies in Virginia are divided into 6 categories or classes. Class 1 felonies are the most serious. A conviction is punishable by life in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. A first-degree murder conviction for a willful, deliberate, premeditated killing may trigger the death penalty.
Class 2 felony convictions are punishable with 20 years to life in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. Aggravated malicious wounding (intentionally causing a permanent and significant physical injury) is an example of a Class 2 felony.
Class 3 felony convictions are punishable with a prison term of 5 to 20 years and a fine of up to $100,000. Class 4 felony convictions are punishable with a term of 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.
Class 5 and 6 felonies are crimes that may be charged as felonies or as misdemeanors at the prosecutor’s discretion. A Class 5 felony is punishable upon conviction with a prison term of 1 to 10 years. Class 6 felonies are punishable upon conviction with a prison term of 1 to 5 years.
How can fairfax defense lawyer make a diference?
If you’re accused of committing any violent crime in Northern Virginia, you’ll need proven and experienced legal counsel. You can’t afford to have the wrong defense lawyer, but the right defense lawyer can make the difference between freedom and prison.
For two decades, Fairfax criminal defense attorney Scott C. Nolan, PLLC has represented clients who are accused of violent crimes in the Fairfax area and across Northern Virginia.
He handles the most serious criminal charges: homicide, rape, assault, battery, domestic violence, armed robbery, kidnapping, arson, and making criminal threats. Attorney Scott C. Nolan, PLLC also handles driving offenses – such as hit-and-run – that are considered violent crimes.
what defense strategies are successful in violent crime cases?
The defense you offer against a violent crime charge depends on the circumstances of the crime. Misidentification and self-defense are commonly used defenses. In some cases, a crime never actually happened, and the defendant may be the victim of a “frame” or a fabricated allegation.
Your attorney will determine if the police followed the legal rules for searches, interrogations, and arrests. If the police violate a defendant’s rights during an investigation, an interrogation, a search, or an arrest, a good defense lawyer may be able to have the case entirely dismissed.
For many violent crimes – including homicide, rape, and even burglary – there is no statute of limitations in Virginia. If you’re charged with a violent crime or named on an arrest warrant, the best strategy is to seek an attorney’s advice and deal with the matter forthrightly and promptly.
to learn more or schedule a consultation
If you’re charged with a crime of violence, don’t even think about trying to act as your own attorney.
The laws are complicated, and anything you say could be used against you. The right attorney will answer your questions, address your concerns, and develop an aggressive, effective defense strategy on your behalf.
Fairfax criminal defense attorney Scott C. Nolan, PLLC has represented thousands of clients accused of serious crimes in Northern Virginia. Contact his law offices to learn more or to schedule a first legal consultation.
Fairfax Violent Crimes Lawyer FAQs
Penalties vary depending on the offense but can include substantial fines, lengthy jail or prison sentences, probation, and mandatory restitution.
An attorney can assess the case, negotiate with prosecutors, explore diversion or alternative sentencing, and build a defense strategy to minimize consequences.
Assault involves threatening or attempting to harm someone, while battery refers to the actual physical contact or harm caused to another person.
Domestic violence cases may include protective orders, arrest procedures, court hearings, and potential penalties ranging from probation to imprisonment.
Evidence may include witness statements, video footage, medical records, expert testimony, and any documentation supporting self-defense or other legal defenses.
Virginia law allows individuals to use reasonable force to defend themselves or others from imminent harm, but excessive force can lead to criminal charges.
The process includes arraignment, discovery, pretrial motions, possible plea negotiations, trial, and sentencing if convicted.
Felony violent crimes can result in multi-year prison terms, mandatory minimums, fines, and long-term probation depending on the offense.
In some cases, courts may allow alternatives like probation, community service, or rehabilitation programs, particularly for first-time or non-lethal offenses.
Plea bargaining allows the defendant to negotiate with the prosecutor for reduced charges or lighter sentences in exchange for a guilty plea.
Yes, a lawyer can question the validity, collection methods, and reliability of evidence, potentially leading to reduced charges or case dismissal.
Contact an experienced attorney immediately to protect your rights, review the evidence, and develop a strategic defense plan.
It may be possible depending on the circumstances, evidence, and skillful negotiation, including alternative sentencing options.
Case duration varies based on complexity, court schedules, and negotiations, ranging from a few months to over a year.
An experienced lawyer protects your rights, evaluates legal options, navigates complex court procedures, and strives to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
