Salt Lake City Violent Crime Defense Attorneys

What Is a Violent Crime in Utah?

Violent crimes are crimes that involve the use of force or threat of force. They are generally considered to be more serious than nonviolent crimes and are punished more harshly. In Utah, violent crimes are those that involve:

• Acts of violence
• Threats of violence
• Physical force
• Murder
• Kidnapping
• Rape
• Robbery
• Aggravated assault

If you are charged with a violent crime, you will face very serious penalties if you are convicted. You may be looking at years in prison or life-altering penalties if you are found guilty. These crimes are also eligible for the death penalty, though that is rarely imposed. You will need an attorney who is highly skilled in criminal defense to help you avoid the harshest penalties. At Lokken & Putnam, P.C., we are skilled criminal defense attorneys who have helped many clients in Utah get the best possible results in their cases.

Contact our Salt Lake City violent crime defense attorneys at (801) 829-9783 or contact us online.

What Is Considered a Violent Felony in Utah?

In Utah, violent felonies are the most serious crimes. They are punishable by up to life in prison, and some are punishable by the death penalty. The following are considered violent felonies in the state:

• Aggravated assault
• Kidnapping
• Rape
• Robbery
• Homicide or murder
• Aggravated homicide
• Carjacking
• Arson
• Weapons offenses
• Manslaughter
• Vehicular homicide

If you are convicted of a violent felony, you will be labeled a "violent offender." This is a status that will follow you for the rest of your life. It can make it extremely difficult to obtain housing, employment, loans, and education. It can also make it difficult to obtain professional licenses and can limit your ability to travel outside of Utah.

What Are the Penalties for a Violent Felony in Utah?

Depending on the crime, violent felonies are punishable by up to life in prison. The penalties for these crimes are determined by the severity of the crime and by any prior convictions the offender has. If you have prior convictions, you will be punished more harshly for the new crime. The penalties for violent felonies will increase with each conviction. If you are convicted of two violent felonies, you will be considered a "super-aggravated felon" in Utah. This will result in the harshest penalties possible.

If you are convicted of any violent felony, you will be required to register as a violent offender. This means that you will have to report to the state each year and give your current address, employment information, and other information. You will be required to do this for the rest of your life. If you leave the state, you will be required to register in the new state as well.

Is a Violent Crime a Felony in Utah?

Not all crimes that involve force or violence are considered felonies. In Utah, some crimes are considered "infractions." Infractions are punishable by small fines and do not have the same lasting effects as a felony conviction. Infractions are generally less serious than felonies and are not considered violent crimes.

Some examples of infractions include:

• Disorderly conduct
• Littering
• Driving with a suspended license
• Reckless driving

Violent crimes that are not felonies include:

• Domestic violence
• Simple assault
• Kidnapping
• Misdemeanor assault
• Aggravated assault

Contact Our Violent Crime Defense Lawyers in Utah

If you are facing charges for a violent crime, you need a highly skilled criminal defense attorney. We have helped clients in Utah get their charges reduced or dropped, and we have helped many clients avoid prison time. We are skilled at negotiating with prosecutors to get the best possible outcome in your case.

If you are facing charges for a violent crime, contact Lokken & Putnam, P.C. at (801) 829-9783  or using our online contact form today.