About the Different Types of Criminal Offenses
A criminal act may be considered a particular type of crime, depending on the nature of the offense. For example, a crime that involves taking another's property may be considered a theft crime. A crime that occurs in a business setting may be considered a white collar crime. An offense of a sexual nature or that involves a sexually deviant act may be considered a sex crime. It is helpful to understand the different types of crimes and the potential penalties that may be imposed for a defendant who is convicted.
We have highlighted the key types of criminal offenses:
A crime that involves a deviant sex act, forced intercourse or the exchange of sexual activity for money may be considered a sex crime. These are often particularly serious due to their sensitive nature and the harsh penalties that may be imposed if a defendant is convicted, including lifetime registration as a sex offender. Some sex crimes include: rape,
sexual battery and
prostitution. Click here to read more
about sex crimes.
Certain substances are controlled by the government, including narcotics and prescription drugs. A defendant may therefore face criminal charges for the unlawful possession,
sale / distribution,
cultivation of such substances as heroin, marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy, methamphetamines, or prescription drugs. Click here to read more
about drug crimes.
When a person is accused of committing a crime against another person, causing or attempting to cause them bodily harm, this may be considered a violent crime. Some specific types of violent crimes include: murder,
domestic violence. Click here to read more
about violent crimes.
White Collar Crimes
Crimes that involve financial transactions, politicians and businessmen and women may be considered white collar crimes. These are typically non-violent theft crimes, such as fraud,
tax evasion. Click here to read more
about white collar crimes.
Unlawfully taking another's property, whether by force, deception or by clandestine means, may be considered a theft crime. The penalties for these will vary depending on the manner in which the alleged offense was committed, as well as the amount of property involved. Some examples of theft crimes include: grand theft auto,
robbery. Click here to read more
about theft crimes.
Certain acts are prohibited by federal law. These and crimes committed against the federal government or on federal property may be considered federal crimes. Some examples include: bank fraud,
mail fraud and
kidnapping. Because federal agencies and prosecutors typically have more resources than those on a local or state level, and due to the extremely harsh penalties that may be imposed for these offenses, it is important to work with a lawyer who can handle cases in federal court. Read more
about federal crimes...
It may be extremely beneficial to the positive resolution of your case that you work with a lawyer who is familiar in handling your particular type of case. Using our directory, you can find and compare local lawyers to determine which one is best qualified to handle your case.
Click here to find a criminal defense attorney.