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Crimes of Violence & Sex Offenses

Crimes of Violence and Sex Offense Defense in Jefferson Parish

Allegations involving crimes of violence or sex offenses are among the most serious charges a person can face. These cases may carry severe criminal penalties and can permanently affect a person’s freedom, reputation, employment, family relationships, and future.

Many of these offenses expose an accused person to imprisonment. Certain charges carry mandatory minimum sentences, require that some or all of the sentence be served without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence, or result in other significant restrictions following conviction.

Early representation by experienced criminal defense attorneys is critical. Important evidence may need to be preserved, witnesses may need to be identified, and statements made during the investigation can affect the entire case.

Crimes of Violence in Louisiana

Louisiana law defines and specifically lists numerous offenses as crimes of violence. Depending on the allegations, these may include:

  • First-degree murder
  • Second-degree murder
  • Manslaughter
  • Attempted murder
  • Aggravated battery
  • Domestic abuse battery under qualifying circumstances
  • Armed robbery
  • First-degree robbery
  • Carjacking
  • Aggravated burglary
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault with a firearm
  • Certain firearm offenses
  • Certain rape and sexual battery offenses

The classification of an offense as a crime of violence can affect sentencing, eligibility for probation or sentence deferral, parole eligibility, bail, and the consequences of future convictions.

Not every crime of violence carries the same sentence, and not every offense requires a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment. However, many carry substantial prison exposure, and some require imprisonment without the ordinary benefits of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.

Sex Offenses in Louisiana

Sex-offense allegations may include:

  • First-degree rape
  • Second-degree rape
  • Third-degree rape
  • Sexual battery
  • Second-degree sexual battery
  • Oral sexual battery
  • Felony carnal knowledge of a juvenile
  • Indecent behavior with juveniles
  • Molestation of a juvenile
  • Computer-aided solicitation of a minor
  • Child sexual abuse material offenses
  • Video voyeurism
  • Certain human-trafficking offenses

The penalties depend on the specific charge, the age of the accused, the age of the alleged victim, the nature of the alleged conduct, and whether force, incapacity, or another aggravating circumstance is alleged.

A conviction may result in:

  • Mandatory imprisonment
  • A sentence without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence
  • Sex-offender registration and community notification
  • Restrictions on residence, employment, travel, and internet use
  • Electronic monitoring
  • Protective or stay-away orders
  • Loss of professional licenses or employment
  • Serious immigration consequences

Sex-offender registration requirements can continue long after completion of the criminal sentence. In some cases, registration or monitoring may be required for decades or for life.

Complex Evidence and Credibility Issues

Cases involving crimes of violence or sex offenses may depend on issues such as:

  • Witness credibility
  • Delayed reporting
  • Inconsistent statements
  • Medical and forensic evidence
  • DNA testing
  • Cellphone and social-media evidence
  • Surveillance video
  • Prior relationships between the parties
  • Motive, bias, or outside influence
  • The legality of police interviews, searches, and seizures
  • Expert testimony
  • Whether the prosecution can prove the required intent

A charge is not proof of guilt. The prosecution must prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.

Experienced Trial Representation

Marino & Ehle, LLC has extensive experience defending individuals accused of violent crimes and sex offenses in Jefferson Parish courts. We understand the sensitive nature of these allegations, the complex evidentiary issues involved, and the serious manner in which these cases are prosecuted.

Our attorneys have obtained not-guilty jury verdicts in cases involving crimes of violence and sex offenses.

Joseph A. Marino III and Davidson S. Ehle III bring decades of combined courtroom and trial experience to each case. They are respected in the legal community for their professionalism, preparation, and advocacy.

If you are under investigation or have been arrested for a violent crime or sex offense, avoid discussing the allegations with law enforcement, potential witnesses, or others before obtaining legal advice.

Marino & Ehle, LLC provides discreet, thorough, and trial-focused representation to clients facing serious criminal allegations in Jefferson Parish.

Contact Marino & Ehle, LLC for a confidential consultation with attorneys Joseph A. Marino III and Davidson S. Ehle III.

Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case depends on its own facts, evidence, and applicable law.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are crimes of violence different when it comes to potential penalties?
In Louisiana, crimes classified as crimes of violence often carry enhanced penalties compared to non-violent offenses. These may include longer mandatory prison sentences, no eligibility for probation, higher bond amounts, and increased sentencing ranges. Because of these heightened consequences, defending these charges requires experienced legal representation.
Crimes of violence may include offenses such as homicide, aggravated battery, armed robbery, domestic abuse battery, sexual battery, rape, kidnapping, and other offenses involving force or the threat of force. Whether a charge qualifies as a crime of violence depends on the specific statute. An experienced defense attorney can explain how a particular allegation is classified and what penalties may apply.
In addition to possible jail or prison sentences, a conviction for a sex offense in Louisiana can carry long-term consequences that extend well beyond incarceration. Many sex offense convictions require registration as a sex offender, which may include public notification requirements, restrictions on where a person may live or work, and ongoing reporting obligations to law enforcement.

Our Experienced Trial Lawyers

Joe Marino

A proven criminal defense attorney assisting clients across Jefferson Parish with decades of courtroom experience, legislative leadership, and significant judicial service.

Davidson Ehle

Davidson Ehle is a seasoned AV-rated trial attorney recognized for criminal defense victories, appellate advocacy, and respected leadership in the Jefferson Parish bar.

Davidson Ehle