
There is no precise definition of the term “violent crimes,” other than to say that it includes any situation in which violence or the threat of violence is present. Our violent crimes attorney defend clients charged with a variety of violent offenses but the most common types of violent crimes include:
A competent defense attorney evaluates every legal angle, challenges prosecutorial evidence, and identifies opportunities to protect your rights and freedom. While every case depends on its facts, the following defense strategies are commonly used in Phoenix violent crime cases and discussed by other defense firms in Arizona:
One of the most well-recognized defenses is self-defense. Arizona law allows a person to use reasonable force when they honestly and reasonably believe it is necessary to protect themselves or another person from imminent harm. This includes situations where the threat is active or imminent and where lethal force may be justified under narrow circumstances.
This defense turns on context: Was there a real threat? Was the force used proportional to that threat? Were safer options available? These questions become pivotal, and a skilled defense attorney will scrutinize every detail to argue that the defendant’s actions were justified under the law.
Errors in identification are more common than most people realize. Witnesses may confuse one person for another, or evidence may be misinterpreted. When there is credible evidence that you were not the person who committed the act, a mistaken identity defense may be appropriate. This often involves presenting alibi evidence, video footage, or other documentation that challenges the prosecution’s narrative.
Violent crimes generally require the state to prove that the defendant acted with a specific intent. For some crimes, a defendant may argue that they lacked the requisite intent because of factors like misunderstanding the situation, incapacity to form intent, or even mistaken belief in a non-criminal situation. Challenging intent can reduce the severity of charges or even lead to dismissal in certain cases.
A cornerstone of criminal defense strategy involves scrutinizing how evidence was obtained. If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during an arrest, search, or interrogation such as conducting an illegal search or failing to advise you of your Miranda rights key evidence may become inadmissible in court. These types of challenges can significantly weaken a prosecutor’s case.
When the prosecution cannot meet its burden of proof, the defense can argue that the evidence is insufficient to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This often requires a detailed examination of witness testimony, forensic evidence, and police reports to expose inconsistencies or gaps in the state’s case.
Not all defenses aim for dismissal or acquittal. Sometimes the best outcome is a negotiated resolution that reduces charges or minimises penalties. This is especially true when the facts make a complete defense difficult. Effective negotiation may lead to lesser charges, probation, diversion programs, or alternative sentencing options tailored to the circumstances.
When facing violent crimes charges in Phoenix, you need a Phoenix violent crimes attorney who knows how to fight for your freedom. At Feldman Royle Ahl, our Phoenix violent crimes defense lawyer team brings experience, strategy, and dedication to every case. As a trusted violent crimes lawyer in Arizona, we build strong defenses to protect your rights and future.
At Feldman Royle Ahl, our clients come first. Call our criminal defense attorneys in Phoenix today for a free consultation for Arizona violent crimes and find out what we can do for you.
At Feldman Royle Ahl, we don’t just defend cases; we defend people. Our team brings together the sharp insight of former prosecutors and the relentless determination of battle-tested defense attorneys who know how to dismantle the state’s case.
What Sets Us Apart in Violent Crime Defense:
We’ve stood on the other side of the courtroom and know how the state prepares violent crime cases. That experience lets us predict and counter their tactics before they’re used against you.
From the first step, we’re pushing to reduce charges or secure dismissal. But we’re also preparing meticulously for trial because prosecutors know we won’t back down.
Violent crime charges often hinge on eyewitness accounts, forensic details, or police procedure. We examine every statement, every report, and every piece of evidence to find the weaknesses that others overlook.
You are not just another case file. We take the time to understand your story, your circumstances, and your concerns, building a defense tailored to you while protecting your dignity at every stage.

In Arizona, violent crimes include offenses that involve force or the threat of force against another person. Examples are assault, aggravated assault, robbery, homicide, kidnapping, and armed burglary. These are serious felony charges that can carry harsh penalties if convicted.
Penalties for violent crimes depend on the specific charge and circumstances. They may include long-term prison sentences, fines, probation, loss of civil rights (like gun ownership), and a permanent felony record. Some crimes carry mandatory minimum sentences under Arizona law.
Yes. Arizona law recognizes self-defense when a person reasonably believes force was necessary to protect themselves or others from immediate harm. An experienced Phoenix violent crimes attorney can evaluate whether self-defense is a valid strategy in your case.
Stay calm, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. Speaking to police without legal counsel may harm your defense. Feldman Royle Ahl offers experienced representation for those facing violent crime charges in Phoenix.
In some cases, yes — but many violent crimes (especially those involving deadly weapons or serious injury) come with mandatory prison time. A skilled defense lawyer can help argue for reduced charges or alternative sentencing when possible.
Feldman Royle Ahl provides aggressive, strategic defense for those accused of violent crimes. Our Phoenix violent crime attorneys analyze evidence, challenge unlawful police actions, and build strong defenses, including self-defense or mistaken identity claims.
Yes — depending on the facts, legal errors, or weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, charges may be reduced or dismissed. A defense lawyer may negotiate plea deals, file motions to suppress evidence, or win at trial.