While there are high-profile crimes such as murder, they are by no means the only ones in criminal law.

There are many types of criminal cases that can be brought before a court. So if you're charged with a criminal case, you need to understand the charges leveled against you. Take a look at the different types of criminal charges and what to expect with each case.

Statutory Crimes

Statutory crimes violate laws set by the state or federal government. Mainly, these offenses involve drugs, traffic, or alcohol-related crimes.

These crimes usually involve specific elements that have to be proven for the court to declare a conviction. The prosecutor has to prove the following:

• There was a clear intent to break the law
• The act committed was prohibited by the statute
• The prohibited act caused damage or harm

When defending against statutory crimes, an experienced criminal defense lawyer will first confirm if the prosecution can prove each element of the crime. If there's a flaw on the prosecution's side, your lawyer may be able to have the case dismissed or the charges reduced.

Keep in mind that the punishment for statutory crimes depends on the following:

• The severity of the offense 
• The state where the crime was committed

The less serious crimes such as a misdemeanor may result in a fine or a brief jail sentence. More severe crimes, such as a felony, could lead to years of imprisonment.

Inchoate Crimes

"Inchoate" crimes are unlawful acts committed in preparation for another crime. These crimes may include conspiracy, solicitation, and criminal attempts. You may be charged with the intent to commit a crime even if you haven't committed the crime itself.

In some cases, you could face charges for having conversations about committing the crime. Also, if you purchased supplies necessary for committing a crime, you might get arrested and charged.

If you face charges for an inchoate crime, contact a certified criminal defense lawyer to help you understand your rights and build a strong defense strategy. Depending on the facts of your case, your lawyer could negotiate the terms of a plea bargain.

Financial Crimes

Financial crimes are usually white-collar crimes that involve fraud or illegal monetary transactions. These crimes include embezzlement, insider trading, or money laundering. You could face prosecution for financial crimes at the state or federal level. Oftentimes, if you are found guilty of these crimes, you could face hefty penalties or possible jail time.

To fight off allegations of financial crime, you need a licensed criminal defense lawyer who understands the complex laws involved. Your lawyer can present a strong defense against the charges and work to get the best possible outcome for your case.