Asked about 3 years ago - Darby, MT
FlagWhat is the difference between violent and nonviolent crime? Which crimes are deemed violent and which are deemed nonviolent?
It depends on what you are asking. Generally violent crimes are crimes where someone is inured, nonviolent crimes are those where no one is specifically injured. In some cases there are enhancements to a sentence for prior violent crimes, in those case what specifically is a violent crime is defined by statute and case law. What is a violent crime under federal law for a career criminal enhancement has changed recently, and is now an evolving question of law. What had been considered a violent crime enhancing the sentence is no longer a violent crime.
There is not one definition that answers your question, it depends on the specific application. This answer is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice.
Don't speak legalese? We define thousands of terms in plain English.
Browse our legal dictionary