Mississippi Violent Crimes Defense Attorney

Defense Against Violent Crime Charges in Madison County

When facing charges for a violent crime, it is crucial to have a skilled and knowledgeable lawyer by your side. At Oberhousen Law Firm, our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to protecting your rights and providing you with a strong defense.

Why choose Oberhousen Law Firm?

• Extensive experience: Our attorneys have a proven track record of successfully defending clients in violent crime cases. We have the knowledge and capabilities to navigate the complexities of the legal system in Madison County and its surrounding areas like Jackson, Hinds County, and Rankin County.
• Personalized approach: We recognize that every case is unique. We dedicate time to thoroughly evaluate the specific details of your situation, allowing our attorneys to tailor a defense strategy that aligns perfectly with your individual needs and circumstances.
• Aggressive advocacy: We are committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring that you receive fair treatment throughout the legal process. Our attorneys will vigorously advocate for you both inside and outside the courtroom.
• Compassionate support: We understand that facing charges for a violent crime can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Our team is here to provide you with compassionate support and guidance every step of the way.

Don't leave your future to chance. Contact Oberhousen Law Firm today to schedule a consultation with a trusted violent crime lawyer in Mississippi who will fight for you.

Charged with a violent crime? You can discuss the specifics of your case with our attorney in a free consultation. Call (601) 202-4099 or contact us online to get started. We also serve clients throughout Rankin and Hinds Counties.

Understanding Violent Crime Charges in Mississippi

Violent crime charges are exceptionally serious and carry significant legal ramifications that can impact your life for many years. In Mississippi, a "violent crime" generally encompasses offenses that involve causing, attempting to cause, or threatening physical injury to another person. The specific legal elements of each crime, and consequently the potential penalties, can vary dramatically based on the details of the alleged act, the accused's intent, and any aggravating factors. It's vital to understand that even seemingly minor acts of violence can lead to severe felony charges if they involve certain circumstances or vulnerable victims.

Crimes We Defend Against

At Oberhousen Law Firm, we have extensive experience defending clients against a wide range of violent crime charges in Mississippi, including:

• Arson: While often associated with property damage, arson can be classified as a violent crime, especially if it involves occupied dwellings or the intent to harm individuals.
• Armed Robbery: This involves the taking of property from another person by force or threat of force, while armed with a deadly weapon.
• Assault and Aggravated Assault: Simple assault typically involves attempting to cause or purposely, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury. Aggravated assault involves attempting to cause or purposely, knowingly, or recklessly causing serious bodily injury under circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to human life, or using a deadly weapon.
• Battery: Similar to assault, battery involves actual physical contact that results in bodily injury.
• Domestic Violence: This encompasses a range of violent acts committed against a family or household member. Charges can range from simple domestic violence (a misdemeanor for a first offense) to aggravated domestic violence, which carries much stiffer penalties.
• Carjacking: The forceful taking of a motor vehicle from another person. This is inherently a serious felony, and the presence of a weapon or injury to the victim can significantly increase penalties.
• Kidnapping: The unlawful seizing and confining of another person against their will. Penalties are significantly enhanced if the victim is a child.
• Rape: Forcible sexual penetration of any person. This is one of the most serious violent crimes, with potential penalties including life imprisonment.
• Manslaughter: The unlawful killing of another human being without malice aforethought. This can be voluntary (due to sudden passion or heat of the moment) or involuntary (due to recklessness or negligence).
• Murder: The unlawful killing of another human being with malice aforethought. This includes first-degree murder (premeditated) and second-degree murder. Capital murder, the most severe form, carries penalties including life imprisonment or the death penalty.

Understanding the specific charges is just the first step. It's equally important to be aware of the severe consequences that can follow a conviction.

Potential Penalties for Common Violent Crimes

The penalties for violent crime convictions in Mississippi are severe and can include:

• Imprisonment: Ranging from county jail time for misdemeanors to decades or even life in state penitentiaries for felonies.
  • Simple Assault: Up to six months in jail, a $500 fine, or both. Penalties can double for bias-motivated crimes.
  • Aggravated Domestic Violence (First Conviction): 2 to 20 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000.
  • First-Degree Murder: Punishable by life imprisonment, and in some capital murder cases, the death penalty.
  • Manslaughter: Fines of not less than $500, or imprisonment in county jail for not more than one year, or both, or in the penitentiary for not less than two years nor more than twenty years. Child homicide (victim under 18, perpetrator over 21) can result in up to 30 years.
  • Armed Robbery: Not more than 15 years imprisonment. If armed, up to 30 years.
  • Carjacking (Basic): Fine of not more than $5,000 and 5 to 15 years in custody of the State Department of Corrections.
  • Armed Carjacking: Fine of not more than $10,000 and 10 to 30 years in custody of the State Department of Corrections.
    • Kidnapping: Not less than one year nor more than thirty years in the custody of the Department of Corrections. If the victim is a child under 16, it can be life imprisonment.
  • Rape: Imprisonment in the Penitentiary for life, or for a shorter time as fixed by the jury or court.
  • Arson (Willful/Malicious Burning of Dwelling): Varies, but often includes significant prison time. Willfully and maliciously setting fire to certain woods, meadows, etc., not your own, is a felony punishable by 1 to 2 years in state penitentiary or a fine.
• Hefty Fines: Significant financial penalties often accompany imprisonment.
• Permanent Criminal Record: A felony conviction will stay on your record, making it difficult to secure employment, housing, or educational aid.
• Loss of Rights: This can include the right to vote, own firearms, and hold certain professional licenses.
• Community Stigma: Beyond legal penalties, a conviction can lead to significant personal and community stigma, affecting your social standing and relationships.

Certain aggravating factors can lead to enhanced charges or penalties. For example, committing a violent crime with a deadly weapon, or against a protected class of individuals (such as law enforcement officers, emergency medical technicians, judges, or those considered vulnerable or incapacitated), will almost always result in more severe consequences.

Protect Your Rights with an Experienced Violent Crimes Lawyer

When you are accused of a violent crime, exercising your right to remain silent and to have an attorney present is paramount. Even seemingly innocent cooperation with investigators can inadvertently harm your case. At Oberhousen Law Firm, we understand the critical nature of this time and are prepared to step in immediately to safeguard your future.

Our comprehensive and client-focused approach to violent crime defense in Ridgeland, MS, includes:

• Immediate Legal Intervention: We act swiftly from the moment you contact us, ensuring your rights are protected and you avoid critical missteps during initial questioning and procedures.
• Thorough Investigation and Strategy Development: We meticulously investigate every detail of your case, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with experts as needed. We then develop a tailored defense strategy that accounts for your unique circumstances and the specific nuances of Mississippi law.
• Robust Defense: We will challenge the prosecution's evidence, identify weaknesses in their case, and explore all possible defenses, including self-defense, mistaken identity, or lack of intent.
• Negotiation and Litigation: We are skilled negotiators who will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome, whether that involves negotiating reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or pursuing a dismissal. If a trial is necessary, we are prepared to vigorously defend your rights in court.
• Local Legal Knowledge: Our team has in-depth local knowledge, from procedural intricacies to courtroom dynamics in Ridgeland and the surrounding areas, which enhances your defense strategy.
• Holistic Support: Beyond legal advice, we understand the emotional and social impact of violent crime charges. We provide guidance on how local community dynamics can influence your case and can connect you with relevant community resources aimed at rehabilitation and support, which can positively impact court perceptions and outcomes.

By engaging with Oberhousen Law Firm promptly, you gain a dedicated legal team committed to fighting for your freedom and working towards the most favorable result possible.