Provo Criminal Defense Lawyer: Gang Related Offenses
Enhanced Penalties and Gang Related Offenses
A crime is considered "gang related," when it is, "In concert with two or more persons". Such actions as assaults, thefts, even murders, could be categorized as gang related, depending on the circumstances. When this occurs the prosecutor involved in the case may ask for "enhanced charges" which increase the type of charge you would be given, such as:
- A class B misdemeanor becomes a class A misdemeanor;
- A class A misdemeanor becomes a third degree felony;
- A third degree felony becomes a second degree felony;
- A second degree felony becomes a first degree felony;
- A first-degree felony is an indeterminate prison term of not less than five years in addition to the statutory minimum prison term for the offense, which may include a life sentence.
As charges are enhanced, the penalties for the crime committed will increase as well. It is imperative when charged with a gang related offense that a Provo criminal defense lawyer be contacted to get involved with the case.
There are many instances where a crime could be considered as taking place "in concert" with another, but is not a gang related activity. The arresting officer and the prosecutor will attempt to engage the most severe penalties possible in any crime, particularly if "gang related" is attached to it.
Protecting Your Rights
A qualified criminal defense attorney from the Zabriskie Law Firm can review the facts of the case in order to assess the charges in regards to the "enhanced" penalties clause. Many times this aspect of the charges can be dropped, thus reducing the potential penalties. Quite often inaccuracies occur in the field and the charges submitted by the arresting officer don't fit the actual circumstances of the case. We will fight to ensure that your rights are being protected. Our firm has over 50 years of combined criminal defense experience and we will use that knowledge and know-how to get you the best outcome possible.
Contact a Provo Criminal Defense Lawyer
if you have been arrested in the Provo area and are facing "enhanced" charges.