I specialize in defending clients facing violent crime charges in California. Violent crimes in California include assault, battery, murder, and certain sex crimes. Convictions for these offenses often result in fines and imprisonment, treated seriously by the court system. California defines violent crimes through Penal Code §667.5(c), listing “violent felonies,” but not all violent crimes are felonies. Assault is an offensive or harmful attempt to touch another person and can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Battery is the harmful or offensive touching of another person, often prosecuted as a felony. Murder, the most serious charge, involves taking a life unlawfully and can be first or second-degree murder, attempted murder, or manslaughter. Other violent felonies in the state encompass acts like mayhem, robbery, arson, kidnapping, and more. Some sex crimes are considered violent if they cause harm to the victim. Convictions can lead to fines, incarceration, loss of firearm rights, anger management orders, and criminal record strikes. It’s crucial to consult a criminal defense lawyer immediately if facing a violent crime charge in California!