Calling a criminal defense attorney when you have been charged with a violent crime should be your first priority. If you’re convicted, the penalties are severe. Defense attorney Craig Divine in Kansas City is an experienced, skilled defender of his clients’ rights with a proven track record of successful outcomes. If you are facing charges such as assault, battery or murder, request a lawyer immediately. It is absolutely imperative that you have a criminal defense attorney to protect your rights. Importantly, it can make a difference in whether you remain free or end up with a long-term prison sentence.
The charges for violent crimes vary widely and in many cases, there are mitigating factors that can alter the charges. Depending on the circumstances – whether you were acting in self-defense or were provoked in some way, for example – it is important that you treat these charges seriously. Potential jail time and significant fines are real possibilities, especially when an alleged victim is involved. In cases such as homicide, assault and battery, domestic assault, robbery, and other violent crimes, the consequences are severe.
For instance, charges of domestic violence in Missouri are distinguished by degree – 1st , 2nd and 3rd degree assault. Third degree domestic assault is a Class A misdemeanor with a fine up to $1,000 or up to a year in jail, or both. Second degree is a Class C felony punishable by up to 7 years in prison and a fine up to $5000, or both. Domestic assault in the first degree is the most serious charge, for when someone actually causes serious physical injury to another person. It is a Class A felony punishable by 10 to 30 years or life in prison. If the crime does not result in serious physical injury to the victim, it is a Class B felony which is punishable by 5 to 15 years in prison.
Defense attorney Craig Divine, of Divine Law, LLC, in Kansas City, offers the following suggestions if you are arrested:
You should not give in to fear and intimidation, nor allow yourself to be misled by law enforcement’s promises that “answering a few questions is all they need to get things cleared up.” The police will be focused on getting a conviction and they will pull out all the stops. Stay calm, remain civil and polite, but do not give a statement, and insist on speaking to a defense lawyer right away.
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Do not talk to the police or answer any questions or make any verbal responses of any kind.
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Do not, under any circumstances, waive your rights.
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Do not give law enforcement consent to search your vehicle, your home or anything else.
If you call defense attorney Craig Divine right away he will immediately start working to get you out of jail and start working on an aggressive defense. All viable options will be explored. Craig will launch a full investigation, pursue all witnesses and thoroughly review the crime scene.
Divine Law has successfully handled many cases involving violent crimes in Missouri and Kansas. Whether it is a jury trial or throughout plea negotiations, he will work your case aggressively and relentlessly to obtain the best disposition possible.