Violent Crime Lawyers in La Plata, MD

Violent crimes are typically taken more seriously compared to so-called “victimless” crimes. As such, it is important to team up with a qualified, experienced violent crime lawyer in La Plata if you face these charges. Even if you accept that you have committed a violent offense, it does not make sense to sit back and accept needlessly excessive penalties. Your actions may be justified in the eyes of the law, and you may have the ability to mitigate or even escape legal consequences. For example, you might have been acting in self-defense. Whatever the case may be, the only way to pursue results is to team up with a qualified defense attorney at your earliest convenience, such as Hennessy Law, LLC.

Examples of Violent Crimes

There are many types of violent crimes in Maryland:

• Assault: Maryland has two different types of assault: First-degree assault and second-degree assault – the main difference being serious bodily injury. However, even a lesser charge can result in many years behind bars.
• Murder: Murder is perhaps the most obvious violent crime, and it involves the premeditated, willful, or deliberate taking of someone’s life.
• Sexual Violence: Examples include rape and sexual assault. The key component of this crime is the lack of consent.
• Robbery: In Maryland, a robbery occurs when you take someone’s property through the use of force or the threat of force.
• Carjacking: Like robbery, carjacking involves taking someone’s car through the use of force or threat of force.
• Manslaughter: Manslaughter is the unintentional killing of another person. The key component is the defendant’s unreasonably dangerous action.
• Gang Crimes: Examples of gang crimes include human trafficking, the use of firearms, extortion, and open gang warfare against other criminal enterprises.

These are just a few examples of violent crimes in Maryland, and there are many others. If someone was hurt or threatened with violence, there is a good chance it will be considered a violent crime.

Violent Crime Statistics in Maryland

In 2022, 12% of Maryland residents experienced some form of violent crime. 48% of residents are concerned about violent crime, which is higher than the national average. 44% are concerned about gun violence. The most commonly reported violent crime in Maryland is robbery, and this crime makes up 30% of all violent crimes throughout the entire state.

This is higher than the national average, in which robberies make up just 19% of all violent crimes. More than 67% of residents say that gun violence is their top concern, which is also higher than the national average. Concealed firearms are becoming more common as a result, and today more than 20% of people in Maryland use a firearm to protect themselves and their families.

We are Experienced in Violent Crime Cases

Our attorneys come out clean and give you the results you may get from your case. However, that doesn’t mean we don’t aggressively defend you. Our work is to offer defense for our clients and ensure they get lenient judgments.

In Hennessy Law, LLC we prioritize the clients before anything else. We know when you come to us, you need help. We understand you have been going through a lot, wondering how your case will turn out. That’s why we offer our support by defending you in court. 

Following your case, you may forget to look out for an excellent attorney to represent you. We know it is difficult to trust anyone, especially in such a state.

Our attorneys have some common qualities that make it easy to work with them. You don’t have to worry about which one you choose because they all do their work passionately and diligently.

What differentiates our attorneys from others are;

What if I Used My Firearm in Self-Defense?

If you used your firearm in self-defense, you could still face murder charges. This is because, in Maryland, citizens have a “duty to retreat.” This means that you need to attempt to escape the situation before drawing your weapon and firing on the attacker. For example, if someone is running at you with a hatchet from the other end of the street, you have a duty to run in the opposite direction as fast as you can – preferably while calling the police.

If the attacker comes close enough to harm you and there is no way to retreat, you are allowed to draw your firearm and pull the trigger – but only if you first attempt to run away. Note that you only need to retreat if you can do so in a safe manner. If the only option is to run onto a highway with semi-trucks zooming by at high speeds, you do not need to put yourself in danger, and you are justified in drawing your weapon. If you are within your home, the duty to retreat does not apply because you are effectively cornered.

Where Can I Find a Qualified Violent Crime Lawyer in La Plata, MD?

If you have been searching for a violent crime lawyer in La Plata, look no further than Hennessy Law, LLC. Over the years, we have assisted numerous defendants – including those fighting accusations of violent crimes. We know that these charges can seem incredibly daunting – especially if you face the possibility of many years in prison. But it is important to understand that you are not alone in this battle. One of your most valuable rights as an American is your right to an attorney, and you can approach this situation with confidence and dignity alongside a legal professional. Book your consultation today to get started with an effective action plan.