Violent Crimes

Tampa Violent Crimes Lawyers

Representation in Hillsborough, Pinellas & Pasco Counties

Violent crime allegations are among the most serious charges a person can face. These offenses typically involve the threat or use of force against another person and are often prosecuted with maximum aggression by the state. Your freedom, reputation, and future may be at risk from the moment of arrest or during a pending investigation.

At Sanchez Vaughn, we understand the high stakes in these cases. Board-Certified Criminal Trial Attorney Nicole Sanchez brings formidable professional expertise and skill to clients facing violent crime allegations and charges. With over a decade of experience, including time as a former prosecutor, she has a sharp eye for detail and a fierce commitment to her clients. Attorney Tyler Vaughn has tried jury and bench trials in serious felony matters, obtaining acquittals, securing charge reductions, and achieving dismissals through strategic legal challenges. Together, our strategic legal team provides a meticulous and robust defense for our clients facing violent crime charges in Florida.

You can discuss your case with one of our Tampa violent crimes attorneys by phone at (813) 401-9918 or you contact us online. Hablamos español. Available 24/7.

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What Are Violent Crimes in Florida?

Violent crimes involve acts intended to cause physical harm or the threat of harm to another individual. These charges are treated with particular severity due to their potential to result in injury or death. Prosecutors often seek the harshest penalties available, and judges are unlikely to show leniency, especially if the case involves weapons, serious injury, or vulnerable victims.

Common Violent Crimes in Florida

Florida law classifies a wide range of offenses as violent crimes, including:

Homicide (murder and manslaughter)
Aggravated assault
Aggravated battery
Arson
Robbery
Carjacking
Home invasion robbery
Kidnapping
Sexual battery (rape)
Domestic violence involving injury or threats
Resisting arrest with violence
Weapons offenses involving firearms or knives

Depending on their severity, these crimes can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies, but most violent crimes fall into the felony category.

How Are Violent Crimes Charged?

Violent crimes are prosecuted aggressively and often carry mandatory minimum sentences.

The severity of the charge depends on multiple factors, including:

The use of weapons – Firearm involvement can trigger minimum sentencing under Florida’s 10-20-Life law, which mandates minimum prison sentences of 10 years for pulling a gun during certain felonies, 20 years for firing it, and 25 years to life if someone is injured or killed.
The degree of injury caused – Serious bodily harm or death leads to enhanced penalties.
The age or vulnerability of the victim – Crimes against children, the elderly, or disabled individuals carry heavier consequences.
The defendant’s criminal history – Repeat offenders face significantly harsher penalties.
Gang affiliation or hate crime enhancements – These can elevate charges and increase penalties.

Many violent crimes are categorized as “aggravated” if they involve weapons, result in serious injury, or occur during the commission of another felony. These charges can result in decades in prison or even life sentences if convicted.

Why You Need a Tampa Violent Crimes Defense Lawyer

You must act quickly if you are under investigation or have been arrested for a violent crime. Anything you say to law enforcement can and will be used against you. Prosecutors may try to paint you as dangerous before all the facts are known, and bail may be denied or set unreasonably high.

Working with Sanchez Vaughn can make the difference between freedom and incarceration.

Our firm can:

Conduct a thorough investigation of the incident
Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
Challenge unlawful searches, statements, or arrests
Negotiate for reduced charges or case dismissal
Fight for you at trial if necessary

Our attorneys are skilled at anticipating the state’s strategy to stay one step ahead. We offer fierce advocacy, personalized attention, and an unwavering commitment in even the most challenging cases.

Contact us at (813) 401-9918 to request a free initial consultation.

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Unyielding Commitment to Justice
We are dedicated to defending the constitutional rights of the accused, ensuring every client receives a fair trial and that justice is never compromised.
Strategic and Fearless Advocacy
We approach each case with fearless determination and strategic precision, relentlessly challenging injustices and standing up to power imbalances in the legal system.
Comprehensive Legal Expertise
With extensive experience across a wide range of serious criminal cases—from homicide and sex crimes to federal appeals—we bring a deep and nuanced understanding of the law to every case we handle.
Culturally Attuned Representation
We recognize the importance of culturally competent representation. By offering services in both English and Spanish, we ensure our clients feel heard, respected, and understood at every step.
Recognition of Excellence

Nicole's consistent recognition in the list of Super Lawyers “Rising Stars” from 2021 through 2025 reflects our ongoing commitment to excellence, integrity, and results-driven representation.