Criminal Law

All law related to crime falls under Criminal Law. Substantive criminal laws define crimes and may establish punishments. Usually crimes are categorized as felonies or misdemeanors based on their nature and the maximum punishment that can be imposed. Criminal Law is different from civil law, because it is concerned with punishment of individuals who commit crimes rather than disputes between parties.

Every state has its own criminal code and processes/punishments for crimes. A “crime” is any act or omission in violation of a law. Generally, any act that is threatening, harmful, or otherwise endangering to the property, health, safety and moral welfare of people is considered as crime.

Some questions that are asked in Criminal Law include:

1. Did an individual commit a crime?
2. Which crime did they commit?
3. What evidence supports this claim?
4. Does the individual have a defense?

Types of Crimes

Crimes can be separated into four categories:

• Felonies
• Misdemeanors
• Inchoate Offense
• Strict liability offenses

Felonies are typically punished by more than a year in prison, while misdemeanors are punished by less than a year. For strict liability offenses, all the prosecution needs to prove is that an individual engaged in certain conduct. Once the conduct, the actus reus, requirement has been satisfied, the individual is found guilty regardless of whether the individual knew that he or she was engaging in negative conduct.

Arrested For a Crime?

Expert advice and legal representation is needed if an individual commits a crime. A misdemeanor charge is not as serious as a felony, but can still result in a jail sentence up to 12 months. There may be other penalties like fines, probation, community service, driver’s license suspension, rehab, and others. So, immediate legal action can help reduce the punishment and can help one achieve the best possible outcome.

We have experience in defending a wide variety of offenses. If you are facing any charges, contact us immediately so that we can guide you in the process and minimize damage as much as possible.