Northwest Arkansas Violent Crimes Lawyer

Have you been accused of a violent crime such as aggravated assault, manslaughter, domestic abuse or murder? A violent crime conviction can impact you in some very significant ways, as these offenses can carry some of the most serious penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and significant monetary fines. And even after you've repaid your debt to society, you could face major challenges when trying to get a job, rent property or get an education.

Hire a Lawyer that can do an Outstanding Job for You

For these reasons, it's vital that you hire a top Arkansas criminal defense lawyer with the strategies and experience required to maximize your chances of seeing a positive case resolution. Mike has represented clients who have been accused of a broad range of violent crimes. He understands the fear and anxiety that his clients experience as they confront these difficult charges. As a former Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, he will work hard to present a strong case in your defense, in addition to hiring private investigators to uncover any additional evidence that can be used in your defense.

Established by a defense lawyer with more than 10 years of legal experience, Rhoads & Armstrong will aggressively defend you in your violent crimes case. If you or a loved one are facing charges in Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale, Fayetteville, Pea Ridge, Gravette, Johnson, Bella Vista, Lowell, Johnson or another community, contact Rhoads & Armstrong . We look forward to discussing your case in a fully confidential consultation session. Call (479) 254-0135.

Common Questions and Concerns About Violent Crimes Defense in Northwest Arkansas

It's normal to have questions, concerns and worries over your case, your freedom, and your future, especially if you're facing a serious felony charge. Here are some questions that may have crossed your mind.

What Violent Crimes Can Your Law Firm Defend?

Mike represents clients accused of many different violent crimes, including but not limited to:

• Assault and battery;
• Child abuse;
• Aggravated assault;
• Domestic violence;
• Hate crimes;
• Terroristic threats;
• Home invasion;
• Some forms of manslaughter;
• Attempted murder; and
• Murder (homicide).

We also defend violent crimes that are considered a sex offense, such as rape or sexual assault, along with theft-related violent crimes such as robbery.

Are Violent Crimes Considered a Misdemeanor or Felony in Benton County or Washington County?

Typically, most violent crimes are prosecuted as a felony. The element of violence is typically used to justify the more serious nature of these charges.

There are a few different types of felony in Arkansas, including the following:

• Class Y felony - Capital Murder: life imprisonment or the death penalty
• Class Y felony - Rape - Victim under 14: 25-40 years, or life imprisonment
• Class Y felony - Rape: 10-40 years, or life imprisonment
• Class A felony: imprisonment for 10-30 years
• Class B felony: imprisonment for 5-20 years
• Class C felony: imprisonment for 3-10 years
• Class D felony: imprisonment for up to six years
• Unclassified felonies: imprisonment as determined by statute
• Class A misdemeanor: imprisonment for up to one year
• Class B misdemeanor: imprisonment for up to 90 days
• Class C misdemeanor: imprisonment for up to 30 days

The penalty, if convicted, will vary according to many factors, such as whether you have a prior criminal record, the precise nature of the crime and whether the crime involved excessive cruelty or aggravating factors.

Along with sex crimes, violent crimes carry some of the most serious penalties in the criminal justice system. This includes capital punishment - also known as the death penalty - which is currently legal in Arkansas.

Which crimes are considered violent crimes in Arkansas?

Due to the force used when committing these crimes, the FBI has distinguished the following felony offenses as violent: aggravated assault, forcible sexual assault, robbery and forcible rape, as well as murder.

When is homicide legally justifiable in the state of Arkansas?

If the homicide occurred while stopping a severe crime like rape, robbery, manslaughter or even murder, it can be considered justifiable. This in accordance with a non-criminal homicide law that includes self-defense or the defense of another.

Are manslaughter and homicide the same in the state of Arkansas?

Homicide is a general term used to describe any killing of a human being by another. There are varying degrees of homicide depending on the circumstances surrounding the death. Homicide can be justified in cases of self-defense or defense of others, for example. Homicide is generally classified as either murder, manslaughter or negligent homicide.

Homicide is classified as murder when it is shown that there was intent to commit homicide. However, homicide can also be classified as murder if someone intentionally inflicts serious bodily harm that leads to death or if they acted with reckless disregard for the person's life and they died as a result. Murder is classified as either capital, first or second degree murder, depending upon the facts of the case.

Homicide is classified as manslaughter or negligent homicide when the death was not planned or intentional. Voluntary manslaughter is frequently referred to a "heat of passion" crime, meaning the person was strongly provoked and the crime is committed in that moment with no forethought. Involuntary manslaughter or negligent homicide is when homicide occurs due to negligent or reckless behavior. An example of this is death occurring as a result of a car accident where the responsible party has been drinking alcohol.

What are the punishments for violent crimes in Benton County or Washington County?

Violent felonies typically have the most serious punishments and typically they vary per case. Punishments usually given for violent crimes can include death, incarceration, fines, and/or probation.

Rhoads & Armstrong Will Handle Your Criminal Defense for a Violent Crimes Arrest

If you or a loved one has been arrested for a felony or misdemeanor violent crime, the sooner you retain a criminal defense lawyer, the better your chances of seeing a favorable outcome to your case. Once you retain Rhoads & Armstrong , we will begin our investigation immediately, gathering information, devising a defense strategy and actively working to protect your constitutional rights. Do not face the criminal justice system and the harsh penalties alone and, most importantly, do not wait to get the legal representation you deserve!

Rhoads & Armstrong is committed to providing each client with a strategic, aggressive defense. In every case, we work toward a dismissal or a "not guilty" verdict. But in instances where this is not possible, we are frequently successful in securing downgraded charges and milder penalties.

If you or a loved one has been arrested for a violent crime in Arkansas, do not delay in contacting Rhoads & Armstrong . Arrange a fully confidential, no-cost case evaluation by calling us at 479-254-0135 or reaching out to us online.