Violent Crimes Lawyers in Philadelphia

Violent Crime Charges We Handle in Philadelphia

Pennsylvania’s violent crimes are codified in Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code and cover a broad range of offenses, each carrying its own sentencing exposure. Whether a charge is graded as a misdemeanor or a felony depends on the degree of harm caused, whether a weapon was present, the defendant’s intent, and prior criminal history. Aggravated assault charged as a first-degree felony carries up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $25,000. First-degree murder carries a mandatory sentence of life without parole or death. The stakes across this entire category are serious.

Our criminal defense lawyers handle all violent crime charges, including:

• Murder and homicide
• Robbery
• Simple assault and aggravated assault
• Domestic violence
• Weapons offenses
• Violent sexual assault

How Pennsylvania Grades Violent Crimes

When a deadly weapon was used during an offense, Pennsylvania’s sentencing guidelines apply an enhanced matrix that increases potential sentences above the standard range. A separate matrix applies when a weapon was possessed but not used. These distinctions matter at sentencing and make charge-specific strategy essential from the earliest stages of a case.

Pennsylvania also applies a Three Strikes sentencing structure for repeat violent offenders. A second qualifying conviction triggers a mandatory minimum of 10 years. A third triggers a mandatory minimum of 25 years. Under 42 Pa.C.S. § 9714, the mandatory maximum is set at double the mandatory minimum. This means a second strike carries a sentencing range of 10 to 20 years and a third carries 25 to 50 years, or life at the court’s discretion. Beyond incarceration, a conviction carries collateral consequences that begin at the moment of conviction, not at release: restricted employment options, loss of the right to possess a firearm under federal and state law, housing barriers, and limits on educational opportunities.

Why Early Representation Matters in a Violent Crime Case

The Commonwealth begins building its case from the moment of arrest. Physical evidence, including DNA, video footage, and fingerprints, can degrade quickly. Eyewitness accounts become less reliable over time. Under Rule 573 of the Pennsylvania Rules of Criminal Procedure, a defense attorney can obtain the prosecution’s discovery file early in the process, which is the foundation for identifying evidentiary weaknesses before they disappear.

Violent crime cases in Philadelphia move through a defined sequence: arrest, preliminary arraignment, preliminary hearing in Philadelphia Municipal Court, formal arraignment and pretrial proceedings in the Court of Common Pleas, and, if no resolution is reached, trial. Each stage carries strategic significance. Prosecutors may use plea-deal pressure to push defendants toward agreements that aren’t in their best interest. Having counsel who understands how the Commonwealth thinks allows you to evaluate every option clearly before committing to any path.

Your Rights After a Violent Crime Charge in Pennsylvania

A violent crime charge is serious, but your rights remain intact throughout the process. Understanding them is the first step toward protecting yourself.

• The Right to Remain Silent: The Fifth Amendment protects against self-incrimination. Anything you say to law enforcement can be used against you in court, and that protection applies from the moment of arrest.
• The Right to Legal Representation: The Sixth Amendment right to counsel attaches at arrest and applies through trial and sentencing. You have the right to have an attorney present during questioning and at every subsequent stage of the proceedings.
• The Right to a Fair Trial: You are entitled to a fair and impartial trial, including the right to present evidence, call witnesses, and challenge the prosecution’s case.
• The Right to Appeal: A conviction in Pennsylvania doesn’t end your options. You retain the right to appeal both the conviction and the sentence, and our team can guide you through that process.

What Mincey Fitzpatrick Ross, LLC Brings to Your Defense

Violent crimes are among the most aggressively prosecuted offense categories in Pennsylvania, and the defense requires attorneys who understand both sides of the courtroom. Several of our lawyers are former prosecutors, which means we approach every violent crime case with direct knowledge of how the Commonwealth builds and presents its evidence. That perspective shapes how we investigate, negotiate, and try these cases.

Our attorneys have won cases in federal court and have helped thousands of clients navigate the criminal justice system. We handle representation through every stage, from the preliminary hearing and pretrial motions through trial and appeal. Defense strategies may include challenging the sufficiency or admissibility of evidence, asserting self-defense or other affirmative defenses recognized under Pennsylvania law, or negotiating for reduced charges where the facts support it. Mincey Fitzpatrick Ross, LLC is one of Philadelphia’s leading Black law firms with a certified diverse business background, and our involvement in the Philadelphia community reflects a commitment that extends beyond the courtroom.

Contact Our Philadelphia Violent Crimes Lawyers Today

Regardless of the severity of the charges you’re facing, we have the experience to handle them, from misdemeanor assault through first-degree felony prosecution. We represent clients at every stage of the criminal process, and we’re available around the clock when you need us most.

Helpful Resources

• Pennsylvania Courts
• Pennsylvania Code