Daytona Beach Law Firms List the Most Common Violent Crimes They Defend Against
Law firms in Daytona Beach, Florida have seen an uptick in violent crime cases in recent years. The city has developed a reputation as one of the most dangerous in the state. Local attorneys have compiled data on the types of violent crimes they most commonly defend clients against.
Murder and Manslaughter
One of the most serious violent crimes is murder or manslaughter. This involves causing the death of another person either intentionally or through criminal negligence. Daytona Beach has seen its share of homicide cases over the years. Defense attorneys work to build the best case possible to avoid harsh mandatory minimum sentences or even the death penalty.
Common defenses in murder or manslaughter cases include:
- Self-defense – Arguing the defendant acted in self-defense if they believed they were in danger.
- Provocation – Showing the victim provoked the defendant in a way that caused them to act in the heat of passion.
- Mistaken identity – Proving the defendant was misidentified and did not actually commit the crime.
Sentences for murder or manslaughter often depend on the degree of the offense and mitigating factors. Experienced local defense attorneys know how to negotiate with prosecutors for better outcomes.
Assault and Battery
Assault refers to threatening violence against someone, while battery involves physically attacking them. These offenses make up a large portion of the caseload for Daytona Beach criminal defense firms. Simple assault is a misdemeanor, while aggravated assault charges are more serious felonies.[1]
Common defenses for assault and battery allegations include:
- Self-defense
- Defense of others – Protecting someone else from harm
- Consent – Showing the victim consented to the physical contact
- False accusations – Proving the alleged victim is lying about what happened
Penalties vary based on the severity of injuries, use of weapons, and criminal history. Experienced local attorneys negotiate to reduce charges and secure alternative sentences where possible.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence involves assault, battery, or other violent crimes committed by a family or household member against another. It’s unfortunately common for local law firms to defend domestic violence charges.
In addition to typical assault and battery defenses, common domestic violence defenses also include:
- No visible injury – Questioning the evidence of violence without documented wounds
- Mutual combat – Arguing both parties engaged in the altercation willingly
- False allegations – Proving the accuser fabricated the abuse claims
Domestic cases often depend heavily on witness and officer testimony. Skilled lawyers know how to scrutinize all evidence and testimony to build the strongest defense.
Robbery
Robbery entails taking property by force or threat of force. It involves theft plus violence or intimidation against the victim. Robbery charges are aggressively prosecuted in Daytona Beach.
Typical robbery defenses include:
- Mistaken identity – Challenging eyewitness testimony identifying the defendant
- False confession – Disproving an admission of guilt by the defendant
- Duress – Arguing the defendant felt threatened or coerced into committing the crime
Sentencing depends on whether weapons were used and the value of property taken. Experienced lawyers negotiate to reduce charges to theft to avoid mandatory minimums.
Takeaways
Daytona Beach law firms stay busy defending clients against violent crime allegations. The most common cases involve murder, assault, domestic abuse, and robbery.
Experienced local defense attorneys are familiar with the prosecutors and judges. They leverage this insider knowledge to build the strongest case possible. Their negotiation skills and trial experience are invaluable for clients facing violent crime charges.
Anyone arrested for a violent crime in Daytona Beach needs legal representation right away. An knowledgeable lawyer can mean the difference between prison time and preserved freedom.
Sources:
[1] https://www.daytonalawyers.com/violent-crimes-increase-during-pandemic/