Valley Center Violent Crime Defense Lawyers

Dedicated Defense for Those Facing Violent Crime Charges in Valley Center

Valley Center has low population density and large areas of open space. This picturesque agricultural community, encompassing approximately 100 square miles, specializes in crops including lemons, avocados, and lavender. Despite the general splendor of Valley Center, you may still find yourself facing criminal charges.

If you have been accused of a violent crime, exercise your right to remain silent and contact jD Law Criminal Defense Attorneys for experienced legal representation. Leading criminal defense attorney James N. Dicks has been defending the accused in Southern California for over three decades, and he never backs down in the courtroom. James N. Dicks is an avid, trained user of the Trojan Horse Method, a criminal justice defense technique that focuses on crafting a story and confidently presenting a defense before a courtroom.

Your first consultation is free— contact our Valley Center criminal lawyer at (760) 630-2000 today to learn more about your legal options.

Back to Top

What Is Considered a Violent Crime in California?

Any offense that involves using force or the threat of force to harm victims or cause them to fear for their well-being is considered a violent crime in California.

A violent crime does not have to involve the use of a deadly weapon. Violent crimes can range from misdemeanor offenses to the most serious felonies, such as murder and rape. Some violent crimes count as a strike on your record under California’s Three Strikes Law.

Back to Top

What Offenses Fall in the Violent Crimes Category?

Numerous criminal offenses can be considered violent crimes. The following are some common examples:

• Arson: This crime is committed when a person willfully and maliciously sets fire to, burns, causes to be burned, or aids or procures the burning of any structure, forest land, or property. Penalties can vary widely depending on the type of property burned and whether anyone was injured. This crime carries jail sentences of up to three years for personal property, up to six years for a structure or forest, up to eight years for an inhabited structure, and up to nine years if it causes great bodily injury.
• Assault: Simple assault is a threat or attempt to commit physical injury without using a weapon. Aggravated assault is an unlawful attack on a person with the intent to cause severe physical injury, typically charged when a deadly weapon is used. Simple assault is a misdemeanor that carries up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. Felony aggravated assault is punishable by up to four years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.
• Carjacking: Taking a motor vehicle from someone else using force or fear is carjacking. To be guilty of this crime, you must actually inflict physical force or make threats to cause the victim harm. Carjacking is a felony, punishable by a state prison term of three, five, or nine years and/or a fine of up to $10,000.

Back to Top

What Defenses Can Be Used in a California Violent Crime Case?

Your Valley Center violent crime defense lawyer will employ various legal tactics and techniques, including investigation, gathering evidence, and interviewing witnesses to strengthen your defense. Common defenses used in violent crime cases in California include:

• Self-Defense: This is a widely recognized defense where you needed to use force to protect yourself or someone else from an imminent threat of bodily harm or death. California law allows the use of reasonable force to defend yourself or others.
• Lack of Evidence: Your attorney may argue that there is insufficient evidence to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This can involve challenging the credibility of witnesses, the reliability of forensic evidence, or the integrity of the police investigation.
• Police Misconduct or Entrapment: If law enforcement engaged in misconduct, entrapment, or violated your rights during the investigation or arrest, your attorney may argue for the dismissal of charges or the exclusion of evidence.

A skilled Valley Center criminal defense attorney will carefully evaluate the facts and circumstances of your case to determine the most effective defense strategy.

Back to Top

Take the First Step Towards Protecting Your Future

If you are facing violent crime charges in Valley Center, jD Law Criminal Defense Attorneys is here to provide the skilled legal representation and guidance you need. Our legal team is dedicated to building custom-tailored defense strategies so that you come out with the best possible outcome.

Since 1990, jD Law Criminal Defense Attorneys has been protecting the freedom and rights of accused Californians. Head attorney James N. Dicks is a Certified Criminal Law Specialist by the California Board of Legal Specialization, and his former experience as a Los Angeles Police Department investigator makes him a force to be reckoned with.

Contact us at (760) 630-2000 to schedule a free initial consultation. We’re ready to fight for you.

Back to Top