Payment PlansLos Angeles Violent Crime Lawyer
What is a violent crime in Los Angeles? "Violent crimes" are a category of offenses that involve one person hurting another. California defines them in PC § 667.5(c), where it lists specific charges that count as "violent." Common examples in Los Angeles include assault, robbery, and murder.
If you've been accused of a violent crime in California, you need an expert violent crime lawyer fast. Without help, you are facing the prosecution alone. But the Law Offices of David S. Chesley is prepared to take your case.
Our firm includes former prosecutors, judges, and police officers who have insights into how the state builds its case. We use those insights to build personalized defenses for our clients, protecting their rights and fighting the allegations against them. Our team is available 24/7 and is ready for your case today — call now at (800) 755-5174 to get started.
Reviewed by Attorney David S. Chesley, September 2026. California criminal defense since June 2005, SBN 236611.
Key Points
- California defines violent crimes using a special list in PC § 667.5(c).
- "Violent felonies" are not the same thing as "serious felonies."
- Repeat violent felony convictions carry increased penalties.
- Violent felonies also count as strikes on your criminal record.
- Defenses that can potentially help fight violent crime charges include self-defense, defense of others, and mutual combat.
What Counts as a "Violent Crime" Under California Law?
California covers "violent felonies" in PC § 667.5(c). Rather than providing a blanket definition, the statute lists specific offenses that it classifies as violent. These include murder, robbery, arson, kidnapping, several sex crimes, and more. Having a violent felony conviction on your record can impact future sentences:
- When convicted of a violent crime, three years are added to your sentence for every prior violent crime conviction on your record within the last 10 years.
- Violent crime convictions also qualify as strikes on your record.
- If you are convicted of a felony with one prior strike, the sentence is doubled.
- If you are convicted of a felony with two prior strikes, the sentence is automatically 25 years to life imprisonment.
- Even if the prior conviction happened in another state, it can count as a violent crime on your record, as long as:
- It would have counted as a violent crime if committed in California, and
- You served at least one year of prison/jail time for the alleged offense.
One common mistake California residents make is confusing "violent felonies" with "serious felonies." Serious felonies are a separate category defined in PC § 1192.7(c), though there is overlap between the two lists. Serious felonies also count as strikes, but do not include the additional violent crime sentencing enhancements.
Some examples of felonies that California considers serious, but not violent, include:
- Selling heroin, cocaine, PCP, or methamphetamine to a minor
- Human trafficking of a minor
- Grand theft involving a firearm
- First-degree burglary, when a bystander is not present
Violent Crime Cases Our Lawyers Will Defend in Los Angeles
- Assault / Assault with a Deadly Weapon
- Battery / Domestic Violence
- Robbery
- Kidnapping
- Criminal Threats
- Firearm Offenses / Drive-By Shooting
- Gang Enhancements
- Hate Crimes
- Mayhem / Torture
- Child Abuse / Elder Abuse
- Resisting Arrest / Assault on a Police Officer
- Stalking / Restraining Order Violations
We offer comprehensive violent crime defense from your first consultation. If your charge isn't on the list above, call us at (800) 755-5174, and we'll tell you how we can help.
Why You Need to Take Los Angeles Violent Crime Charges Seriously
Los Angeles violent crime charges need to be taken seriously because of California's penalty enhancement laws and because of the wide range of collateral consequences that can be applied. No criminal charge should be taken lightly, but violent crimes in particular need expert help to defend against.
- California's Three Strikes Law — Felony violent crime convictions in California count as a strike, increasing future sentences.
- Enhanced Sentences — On top of strike penalties, violent felony convictions carry their own sentencing enhancements.
- Immigration Consequences — Many violent crime convictions are considered "aggravated felonies," which can be grounds for deportation.
- Potential Sex Offender Registration — Several violent crimes overlap with sex crimes, which require sex offender registration.
- Other Collateral Consequences — A conviction that is visible on your public record can become a barrier to jobs, education, housing, and more.
Common Los Angeles Violent Crime Charges and Their Penalties:
| Violent Offense | Statute | Misdemeanor Penalty | Felony Penalty | Strike Felony? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault With a Deadly Weapon (No Firearm) | PC § 245(a)(1) | Up to 1 year in jail and/or up to $1,000 in fines | 2, 3, or 4 years in prison and/or up to $10,000 in fines. | Yes |
| Assault With a Deadly Weapon (Standard Firearm) | PC § 245(a)(1) | 6 months to 1 year in jail and/or up to $1,000 in fines | 2, 3, or 4 years in prison and/or up to $10,000 in fines. | Yes |
| Simple Battery | PC § 242 | Up to 6 months in jail and/or up to $2,000 in fines | N/A | N/A |
| Robbery (First-Degree) | PC § 211 | N/A | 3, 4, or 6 years in prison and/or up to $10,000 in fines. | Yes |
| Robbery (Second-Degree) | PC § 211 | N/A | 2, 3, or 5 years in prison and/or up to $10,000 in fines. | Yes |
| Kidnapping | PC § 207 | N/A | 3, 5, or 8 years in prison and/or up to $10,000 in fines. | Yes |
| Criminal Threats | PC § 422 | Up to 1 year in jail and/or up to $1,000 in fines | 16 months, 2 or 3 years in prison and/or up to $10,000 in fines. Add one year if a dangerous weapon was used. | Yes |
| Child Abuse | PC § 273d | Up to 1 year in jail and/or up to $6,000 in fines | 2, 4, or 6 years in prison and/or up to $6,000 in fines. | Possible – depending on injury. |
| Violation of a Restraining Order | PC § 273.6 | Up to 1 year in jail and/or up to $1,000 in fines | 16 months, 2 or 3 years in prison and/or up to $10,000 in fines. | No |
Note: Sentencing enhancements can apply, and you may face different penalties if your case includes multiple charges. Contact a Los Angeles violent crime lawyer for an in-depth review of the potential penalties you are facing.
Effective Defenses Our Lawyers Use Against Violent Crime Charges
In addition to standard defenses against criminal charges, violent crime defenses frequently include elements of self-defense or defense of others. Your defense attorney can help you pick the right strategy for your case — here are some that we've found effective for clients accused of violent crimes:
- Self-Defense/Defense of Others — Self-defense or defense of others applies when you felt legitimately threatened and acted to protect yourself or someone else.
- False Accusation — For example, during a custody battle, one person could falsely accuse the other of child abuse for an advantage.
- Mistaken Identity — Unfortunately, eyewitness testimony isn't always reliable, and our lawyers can use that to claim that someone else was responsible.
- Insufficient Evidence — You are innocent until proven guilty. If the prosecution failed to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, we will highlight that.
- Lack of Intent — Some charges, like battery, can be mitigated if the contact was accidental.
- Illegal Search and Seizure (4th Amendment Violation) — Evidence found through illegal means can be challenged and thrown out.
- Mutual Combat — Mutual combat occurs when two people consent to fight. This defense comes with many caveats and should always be discussed with a lawyer before using it in court.
The Justice Process for Violent Crime Cases in Los Angeles
Violent crime cases follow the same general court process as other criminal cases in Los Angeles, starting with an arrest, going through the arraignment and pre-trial processes, and then the trial itself.
Your lawyer will be with you from the moment you call all the way until the verdict is delivered. They can help explain what's going on and give you counsel on every step:
- Arrest — If you've been accused and the police feel they have justified cause, you will be placed under arrest. Contact an attorney as soon as possible
- Arraignment and Bail — At an arraignment, you'll be formally accused of breaking the law and given a bail amount.
- Preliminary Hearing — California preliminary hearings require the prosecutor to establish probable cause before going forward with felony charges.
- Pretrial Motions — These vary from case to case; some of the ones our lawyers commonly file include motions to suppress evidence, motions to dismiss charges, Pitchess motions, and motions to suppress statements.
- Plea Negotiations — Before the trial, your Los Angeles violent crime lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for reduced charges and a plea deal.
- Trial — If no plea deal is found, your attorney will present your defense in front of a jury.
- Sentencing (If Applicable) — If found guilty, most felony cases go through a sentencing hearing, where your defense attorney can advocate for leniency.
- Appeals (If Applicable) — Appeals give you an opportunity to challenge any mistakes or rights violations that occurred during your trial.
What Sets the Law Offices of David S. Chesley Apart?
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley provides expert criminal defense insights drawn from our lawyers' time working for the state. We know how the prosecution thinks and plans its cases, giving us an edge when we build defenses to combat them.
Additionally, our law firm is based in Los Angeles, but has offices throughout all of California. We leverage our relationships in different courts to negotiate favorable plea deals on behalf of our clients.
Here's more of what sets us apart:
- We are available 24/7 because arrests can happen outside of business hours.
- We have over 50 years of combined courtroom experience.
- We will always be honest when evaluating your case: No overpromising and underdelivering.
- We are well-regarded by former clients and professionally recognized.
- We offer affordable payment plans because everyone deserves a quality defense, no matter your income.
Check out our recent violent crimes case results to learn more about how we've helped California residents handle their cases.
Los Angeles Violent Crime FAQs:
What is considered a violent crime in California?
In California, a "violent crime" generally refers to offenses listed in PC § 667.5(c). Some examples include:
- Murder
- Rape
- Armed Robbery
- Mayhem
- Aggravated Assault
- Kidnapping
How much jail time can I get for a violent felony in Los Angeles?
The exact sentence depends on what statute you're accused of violating. Felony charges always carry minimum sentences of over 1 year, and often have maximum sentences of several years. For example, first-degree robbery has potential sentences of 3, 4, or 6 years in prison.
It's also important to note that if you have a prior violent felony conviction within 10 years, three years are automatically added to new violent felony convictions.
Additionally, violent felony convictions count as a strike. With one strike, future violent felony convictions have their sentences doubled. With two strikes, future violent felony convictions have a mandatory 25-years-to-life sentence.
Can a violent crime charge be reduced or dismissed?
Yes, violent crime charges can be reduced or dismissed. This is not always possible in every case, but a skilled defense attorney can challenge the evidence and negotiate with the prosecutor for a positive outcome.
Does a violent felony count as a "strike" in California?
Yes, a violent felony counts as a "strike" in California. Here's how that impacts your case:
- First Strike: No immediate impact, but affects future sentencing.
- Second Strike: New felony convictions double their sentence.
- Third Strike: Mandatory 25-years-to-life sentence on a felony conviction.
What should I do immediately after being arrested for a violent crime?
If you've been arrested for a violent crime in Los Angeles, take the following steps:
- Remain Silent
- Request an Attorney
- Post Bail (if applicable)
- Gather Evidence
- Develop a Defense
Will a violent crime conviction affect my immigration status?
Yes — Non-U.S. citizens face several challenges after a violent crime conviction. In some cases, it can be grounds for deportation, due to their classification as "aggravated felonies." They may also face restrictions on green card and visa applications, or outright denial to enter the country.
Los Angeles Violent Crime Charge Resources:
Los Angeles and California Court Resources
Los Angeles County Superior Court
Los Angeles Superior Court Criminal Division
California Courts Criminal Case Guide
California Courts: Guide to Protective Orders
Law Offices of David S. Chesley
Main Office:
4533 Van Nuys Boulevard
Second Floor
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
(800) 755-5174
Los Angeles County Office:
1933 S Broadway Suite 1100
Los Angeles, CA 90007
(213) 908-2262
Criminal Defense
Violent Crimes Defense
Get Help Fighting Violent Crime Charges in Los Angeles Today
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is committed to providing a high-quality defense to Los Angeles residents. If you're facing criminal charges, it's important to contact an attorney immediately to start building your defense. We offer:
- Free, confidential consultations,
- Years of experience defending similar charges,
- Connections in Los Angeles courthouses, and
- Affordable payment plans.
Talk to a Los Angeles violent crime lawyer today by calling (800) 755-5174 or using our online contact form.
