El Paso County Violent Crime Lawyers
Charged with a Violent Crime in El Paso County?
Violent crimes are heavily punished under Colorado state law. If you are accused of committing a violent crime, you are at risk of losing your freedom, spending years in state prison. A “crime of violence” allows for enhanced penalties to be imposed. If you are accused of committing a violent crime in El Paso County, contact an El Paso County defese lawyer at the Bussey Law Firm, P.C., at (719) 475-2555 immediately.
Types of Violent Crimes in El Paso County
Violent crimes include the following offenses:
- Homicide, Murder
- First and Second Degree Assault
- Sexual Offenses
- Second Degree Kidnapping
- Aggravated Robbery
- First Degree Burglary
- Carjacking
- Bank Robbery
- First Degree Arson
- Criminal Extortion
Penalties for Violent Crimes
Some violent crimes may be filed as misdemeanors, while others are felonies. The penalties imposed for a misdemeanor violent crime are harsh. The judge cannot exercise discretion in sentencing in these cases, with the options of probation or community service off the table – incarceration is mandated. In a conviction for a crime, the offender is ordinarily eligible for parole after serving half of the imposed sentence, but not in cases of violent crime. The convicted individual is required to serve at least 75% of the sentence. The judge is required to impose a penalty of at least the midpoint of the range of prison time in the Colorado state sentencing guidelines.
Many violent crimes are felonies, with sentences as long as life in prison without parole. The life-changing consequences of a conviction for a violent crime extend far beyond prison time. Once released the offender re-enters society without the right to vote, own a firearm, and will face challenges finding decent work or housing. Your criminal record can be easily accessed by anyone with a digital device, including landlords, potential employers, and relationship partners.
Violent Crimes and Weapons
The penalties imposed in violent crimes are enhanced, with five added years to the sentence, when specific weapons were used in the commission of a violent crime. The weapons that may allow for a further penalty enhancement include semi-automatic assault weapons with a detachable magazine with the capacity of 20 or more rounds.
Protecting the Rights of the Criminally Accused
The sentence enhancement for violent crimes has been challenged in court, but the Supreme Court has upheld the law, despite court challenges over the years.
What Defense Can Be Effective in Violent Crime Charges?
The first step in defending a violent crime is a review of the facts and evidence that led to the arrest. With a thorough evaluation of the evidence and an investigation, the flaws in the prosecution’s case can be identified. Many violent crime cases could be successfully defended. A few of the legal strategies may be employed in defending against the charges include:
- A case of mistaken identity.
- The act was self-defense.
- Law enforcement violated your constitution rights during an arrest or search.
- The accused has a strong alibi for the timeframe in which the crime was committed.
- Another party is falsely accusing you of the crime.
- The evidence presented in court was insufficient to convict.
Why Choose The Bussey Law Firm, P.C.?
Attorney Timothy Bussey brings a rare level of experience to every case. As a former prosecutor, he has a profound insight into how the “other side” operates which has proven to be a benefit to his clients in El Paso County. His legal skills in defense law are recognized by several professional organization, including These awards include a “Top 100” rating by The National Trial Lawyers Association, an AV “Preeminent” rating by Martindale-Hubbell, a “10 Superb” rating by Avvo and being selected as a “Top Attorney in Colorado” by the Denver Post. If you are accused of committing a violent crime, your defense begins at the first contact with law enforcement.
Charged with a “crime of violence?” Contact The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. immediately at (719) 475-2555.
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