Los Angeles Violent Crime Attorneys

Are You in Need of a Violent Crime Lawyer in Los Angeles?

If you are under investigation or have been arrested for a violent crime in Los Angeles, the stakes could not be higher. A conviction can result in years (or even life) in prison and permanent damage to your reputation. These cases move quickly, and prosecutors are aggressive. You need a law firm that is ready to match that intensity from day one.

At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, we defend individuals accused of the most serious criminal offenses in California. Whether you’re facing charges for assault, robbery, attempted murder, or homicide, our attorneys are equipped to handle high-profile, high-stakes cases with discretion, strategy, and strength.

Why Choose Us Over Other Los Angeles Violent Crime Attorneys

At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, we don’t flinch in the face of serious allegations; we fight back.

• Founded in 1994: More than three decades of results-driven criminal defense experience in California courts
• Mark Werksman: Former Deputy District Attorney and Assistant United States Attorney with a reputation for strategic and aggressive defense
• Alan Jackson: Former Assistant Head Deputy of the Major Crimes Division at the L.A. County District Attorney’s Office, where he tried capital and life-term cases
• Kelly Quinn: Certified Appellate Specialist providing post-conviction support and advanced legal strategy
• AV Preeminent® Rated by Martindale-Hubbell: The highest rating for ethics and legal skill
• Super Lawyers-recognized team: Multiple attorneys listed by the rating agency based on peer reviews and independent research.
• Trial-tested approach: We prepare every case for trial, which often leads to better negotiations and stronger results
• High-profile representation: We handle cases involving public figures, business executives, and celebrities with discretion and focus
• State and federal court experience: Our team is equipped to defend clients at every level of the justice system
• Collective strength: Clients benefit from the combined insight, resources, and firepower of the entire firm

Don’t Wait for Charges to Escalate

Contact our violent crime defense team at (213) 688-0460 today.

Reasons to Contact a Los Angeles Violent Crime Defense Lawyer Right Away

Violent crime allegations are taken seriously and prosecuted aggressively. The earlier you retain legal representation, the better your chances of protecting your rights and securing a favorable outcome.

• Prevent damaging statements: Anything you say to police or investigators can be used against you. We step in immediately to stop unnecessary questioning.
• Preserve evidence: Critical evidence such as surveillance footage, witness accounts, and phone records can be lost without fast legal action.
• Control the narrative: In high-profile cases, we can manage media attention and shape how your case is presented from the start.
• Prevent formal charges: In some cases, early intervention can stop charges from being filed or lead to reduced charges.
• Build a stronger defense: The earlier we get involved, the more thoroughly we can investigate and develop a winning legal strategy.

What to Do If You Are Arrested

Being arrested for a violent crime can be overwhelming, but how you respond matters. Here are the most important steps to protect yourself:

1. Do not resist arrest: Even if you believe the arrest is unjust, remain calm and comply physically.
2. Remain silent: Politely state that you are invoking your right to remain silent and want a lawyer present.
3. Do not explain or justify: Even seemingly innocent remarks can be twisted or used to support charges.
4. Refuse searches without a warrant: Unless police have a valid warrant, you are not required to consent to any searches.
5. Call Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP: The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start protecting your rights and building your defense.

Violent Crimes in California

In California, violent crimes refer to offenses involving physical force or the threat of force against another person. These are some of the most serious offenses in the penal code. Violent crimes include, but are not limited to:

• Assault and battery
• Aggravated assault (assault with a deadly weapon)
• Robbery
• Weapons and firearm charges
• Arson
• Sex crimes, including date rape
• Theft/burglary
• Narcotics offenses
• Carjacking
• Attempted murder
• Murder
• Voluntary manslaughter
• Domestic violence
• Kidnapping
• Mayhem

These offenses are typically charged as felonies and often come with sentencing enhancements, such as use of a weapon, bodily injury, or gang affiliation.

What Are the Penalties?

The penalties for violent crimes in California vary widely depending on the nature of the offense, whether a weapon was used, the severity of the injury, and the defendant’s criminal history. Consequences may include:

• State prison time ranging from 2 years to life, or even the death penalty in capital cases
• Strike enhancements under California’s Three Strikes Law
• Fines, restitution, and court fees
• Formal probation or parole supervision
• Mandatory anger management or rehabilitation programs
• Lifetime registration requirements, in some sex-related offenses

Additional Consequences After a Conviction

In addition to prison time and fines, a conviction for a violent crime can have long-term collateral consequences that follow you for life:

• Loss of employment opportunities: Many employers will not hire individuals with violent felony records.
• Immigration consequences: Non-citizens may face deportation or be denied legal status.
• Loss of firearm rights: A felony conviction typically prohibits firearm ownership for life.
• Damage to your reputation: A conviction can destroy relationships and community standing.
• Housing and education barriers: Many landlords and universities conduct background checks.
• Professional license revocation: Certain careers (e.g., law, healthcare, finance) may be off-limits following conviction.

Because these penalties are often permanent, it is critical to fight the charges early and with experienced legal help.

Your Future is on the Line

Call Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP at (213) 688-0460 for immediate representation.

How an Experienced Los Angeles Violent Crime Defense Lawyer Can Help

The Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers at Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP are battle-tested in the courtroom and strategic at every phase of the case. Here is how we help:

• Pre-file intervention: In some cases, we can stop charges before they are formally filed.
• Independent investigation: We do not rely on the prosecution’s version of events—we dig deep to uncover the truth.
• Challenge unlawful evidence: We file motions to suppress illegally obtained statements, searches, and identifications.
• Discredit unreliable witnesses: Our team is skilled at cross-examination and witness impeachment.
• Negotiate from a position of strength: Because we prepare every case for trial, we often achieve favorable plea deals.
• Fight in court: When trial is the best path forward, we bring decades of courtroom experience to the defense.
• Post-conviction options: If you’ve already been convicted, we offer appellate representation to seek reversals or sentence reductions.

No matter how serious the charge, you are not without options. We provide the strategic defense necessary to protect your freedom and future.

Three-Strike Laws in California

California’s Three Strikes law is one of the harshest sentencing schemes in the country. Under this law:

• A second serious or violent felony conviction doubles the prison sentence for the new offense.
• A third strike (a third serious or violent felony) results in a sentence of 25 years to life in state prison.

Crimes such as murder, robbery, rape, arson, and certain assault charges are considered strike offenses. Once on your record, these strikes follow you for life and can dramatically increase sentencing exposure for future convictions, even if the third offense is unrelated.

Our legal team is experienced in:

• Avoiding strike convictions through charge reductions
• Challenging prior strikes for legal or procedural flaws
• Filing Romero motions to have prior strikes dismissed in the interest of justice
• Fighting for sentencing alternatives when possible

Speak With an Experienced Violent Crime Attorney in Los Angeles

When you’re facing violent crime charges in Los Angeles, your future hangs in the balance. This is no time to take chances with inexperienced or overworked counsel. At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, we bring the full force of our firm’s reputation, resources, and experience to every case we handle.

Call us today at (213) 688-0460 for a confidential consultation. Whether you’re under investigation, have been arrested, or are already facing charges, we are ready to stand between you and the full power of the state. Your defense begins now.

What Clients Are Saying About Us

I would trust them with my life -JoAnn G. (5-Star Yelp Review)

They're amazing with integrity and accessibility. They truly saved the life of someone I know. I recommend them beyond all. I would trust them with my life.

I cannot thank him enough - Allen T. (5-Star Yelp Review)

Mark Werksman is a professional, educated, and articulate lawyer. He goes above and beyond to successfully represent his clients. He is full of wit and quick on his feet. Before I came to Mark, my mind was full of doubt with previous lawyers. One of them even told me there was nothing they could do to help me. Mark managed to settle my case beyond my expectations. He kept me updated with constant positive follow-ups. He stays on top of things and he strives to achieve nothing but the best results for all of his clients. I felt this every time I spoke with him. Thanks to Mark, the stress and worries are out the window. I cannot thank him enough. There are many lawyers out there. However, rationale, quick thinking, and intellect are rare. Mark meets the criteria for a top-notch lawyer.

Case Results

Judge made a factual finding of innocence for client accused of assault, kidnapping, and torture

Alan Jackson represented the 23-year-old son of a Middle Eastern Sheikh, arrested by the LAPD in September 2015 and accused of assault, kidnapping, and torture. From the beginning, Alan's client maintained his innocence. After Alan conducted an exhaustive investigation lasting more than four months, his client was completely exonerated and all charges were dismissed. In a highly unusual ruling, the presiding judge made a factual finding of innocence for Alan's client. Additionally, Alan's preparation and presentation of the case led to the arrest of the complaining witness and her two attorneys on charges of extortion and bribery.

Murder charges dismissed

Alan Jackson defended a 22-year-old Bakersfield man accused of first-degree murder in the 2015 stabbing death of his brother. Alan and his team took over the case on the eve of trial. Notwithstanding the short time for preparation, Alan’s team undertook an exhaustive investigation, which revealed the killing was in self-defense. During the trial, Alan’s relentless cross-examination of the prosecution’s two main witnesses established that they were actually complicit in attacking Alan’s client, in the attack that led to the decedent’s death. The prosecution’s case crumbled and the DA dismissed the murder charges. Alan’s client, previously facing life in prison, walked out of court with probation and no time in jail.

Violent Crime FAQs

What should I do if I’m arrested for a violent crime in Los Angeles?

Remain silent, request an attorney, and do not attempt to explain your side to law enforcement. Anything you say can be used against you. Call Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP immediately at (213) 688-0460 so we can step in and protect your rights.

What crimes are considered violent under California law?

Violent crimes in California include offenses involving force or the threat of force, such as murder, attempted murder, robbery, assault with a deadly weapon, rape, kidnapping, and certain forms of domestic violence. These are often prosecuted as felonies and carry severe penalties.

Can I be charged with a violent crime if no one was physically injured?

Yes. Under California law, the use or threat of force alone, such as brandishing a weapon or attempting to harm someone, can qualify as a violent offense even if no physical injury occurred.

What are the possible penalties for violent crime convictions?

Penalties vary by charge but may include years to life in prison, strikes under California’s Three Strikes Law, heavy fines, mandatory rehabilitation, loss of civil rights, and more. In capital cases, the death penalty may apply.

How does California’s Three Strikes Law affect violent crime cases?

If you have prior strike convictions, a new serious or violent felony can double your sentence. A third strike can result in 25 years to life in prison, even if the third offense is less serious. Avoiding a strike conviction is critical.

Can violent crime charges be reduced or dismissed?

Yes, depending on the strength of the evidence, the credibility of witnesses, and your defense strategy. We may pursue dismissal, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing through negotiation, suppression motions, or by winning at trial.

What if I acted in self-defense?

California law allows the use of reasonable force to defend yourself or others if you believe you’re facing imminent harm. Proving self-defense can result in charges being dropped or an acquittal at trial. Our team knows how to present this defense persuasively.

What’s the difference between assault and battery?

Assault is the attempt or threat to cause harm, while battery involves actual physical contact or injury. Both can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on severity and circumstances.

Meet Our Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorneys

Mark Werksman

Mark Werksman is the founding partner of Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP and one of California’s most highly regarded criminal defense attorneys. With nearly 40 years of experience, Mr. Werksman has built a reputation for delivering powerful, strategic defense in some of the state’s most complex and high-stakes criminal cases.

Mr. Werksman began his legal career as a Deputy District Attorney for Los Angeles County, later serving as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Central District of California. These roles gave him invaluable insight into how prosecutors build and try criminal cases—knowledge he now uses to dismantle those cases on behalf of his clients.

Today, Mr. Werksman defends individuals and entities facing charges ranging from violent felonies and sex crimes to white-collar offenses and federal indictments. Known for his courtroom command and meticulous preparation, he has represented business leaders, entertainers, public officials, and everyday individuals facing extraordinary legal challenges.

Alan Jackson

Alan Jackson is a nationally recognized criminal trial attorney and partner at Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, known for his commanding courtroom presence, strategic thinking, and results in California’s most serious and high-profile criminal cases.

Before entering private practice, Mr. Jackson served as Assistant Head Deputy of the Major Crimes Division at the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, where he prosecuted some of the state’s most complex and high-stakes cases, including multiple death penalty trials.

As a criminal defense attorney, Mr. Jackson applies his extensive experience and insight to defend clients facing charges such as homicide, sexual assault, robbery, federal crimes, and other violent or white-collar offenses. He is often called upon to represent high-profile individuals, including public figures, celebrities, and business professionals, offering discretion and relentless advocacy in cases with serious reputational risk.

Kelly Quinn

Kelly Quinn is a partner at Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP and one of the few attorneys in California certified as a Specialist in Appellate Law by the State Bar of California. Known for her precision, strategic insight, and exceptional legal writing, Ms. Quinn focuses her practice on criminal appeals, writs of habeas corpus, and complex pre- and post-conviction matters.

With years of experience navigating California’s appellate courts, Ms. Quinn is a trusted authority in challenging convictions, reversing unjust outcomes, and preserving legal issues at every stage of a criminal case. She regularly prepares and argues cases before the California Courts of Appeal and the California Supreme Court, bringing clarity and rigor to high-stakes litigation.

Ms. Quinn’s work is instrumental in identifying legal errors, exposing due process violations, and crafting the complex arguments needed to seek relief after trial. She also works alongside trial counsel to ensure issues are properly preserved for appeal, bringing a long-view strategy to every serious criminal case the firm handles.

Additional Information

• Legal Defense Strategies for Complex Criminal Cases in California
• Murder Charges in California: Legal Definitions and Defense Approaches
• Navigating Robbery Charges in Los Angeles: Legal Defenses and Strategies