A crime is “an illegal act for which someone may be subject to punishment by the government.” The violation of any laws, whether municipal laws, federal or state-wide, is considered to be illegal. In a study of the different forms of criminal offenses, you will be able to understand their differences and the reasons that lead to different levels of punishment.
Different factors drive different criminal acts. For instance, the rate of crime tends to be greater in communities that are economically struggling because residents are often forced other than to resort to extreme measures to survive. Motives for crime include revenge, the thrill one experiences from committing the crime, and mental illness; addiction is also possible.
Kinds of Crimes
Criminal defense attorneys represent many clients who face various charges. The diverse statutes and regulations applicable to each case could be confusing. Criminal lawyers can analyze the law and determine the best defense for the client facing criminal charges. There are numerous criminal acts to cover in one post, but they can be categorized.
1. Crimes Against a Person
As far as crimes go, they are the most severe type of crime that can be found. Inflicting pain upon another, whether physically or emotionally, is a crime. Assaults, battery, and other forms of domestic violence come under this category. Homicide, which takes an individual’s life, can be charged at several levels depending on intent and premeditation. Criminal homicide encompasses both manslaughter and murder.
The punishments for crimes that are committed against people are often very severe and need representation from a criminal attorney. Along with hefty penalties, those who are who is convicted of crimes could face the possibility of criminal charges with prison sentences ranging from a few years and even decades.
2. Crimes Against Property
Criminal acts that do not directly inflict harm on another person and are not directed at another person, like crimes that occur against property, are generally considered less severe. The most common crimes against property include shoplifting, theft (robbery), grand theft, arson, auto theft, and property damage.
The penalties for property crimes differ depending on the value of the stolen item, the type of crime committed, and the offender’s prior criminal record, if there is one. The charges and penalties may differ based on the type of property in question. On the other hand, there is another kind of theft, which is identity theft. In this case, you need to consult a reputable firm like John Caffrey Law attorneys for identity theft if you need answers to your legal queries.
3. Crimes Against Morality
Moral crimes are offenses that do not directly result in injury to an individual or property. These are rather acts that go against commonly held norms of society.
They are considered illegal and may be punished with prison time, fines, or other penalties, based on the specifics of the law. Prostitution, bigamy, illicit gambling, illegal drug usage, and indecent exposure are just a few instances of morally unacceptable behavior.
4. Statutory Crimes
Since every crime is legalized by law, any crime is considered legal. In this instance, we refer to “statutory crimes.” Those actions are forbidden for society’s protection and advancement.
This includes crimes committed under the influence of drugs or alcohol and violations of the law while operating in a motor vehicle. There is a possibility that violations against morality may also be considered crimes under the law. If by chance you have a traffic violation, you can avail of the services of a traffic ticket lawyer to represent you in court or give advice as to your defense.
5. White Collar Crimes
The business sector is the home of a variety of white-collar crime. Typically, it is economical. They don’t resort to violence. However, they can result in substantial financial losses for individuals and businesses. Even though they do not cause physical harm, that doesn’t mean there aren’t any victims.
