Crimes are sometimes broadly classified or categorized by their nature—such as (1) crimes that are harmful to the victim’s body (assault, battery, rape, and murder) and are known as crimes against the person; and (2) crimes that are harmful to the victim by depriving him of his property or damaging his property and are known as crimes against property (criminal trespassing, burglary, robbery, bribery, blackmail, theft, arson).

In Virginia, crimes are indeed categorized by their nature, aligning with the broader legal principles. Crimes against the person, such as assault, battery, rape, and murder, are offenses that cause physical harm or pose a direct threat to an individual's safety and well-being. These crimes are taken very seriously and carry severe penalties. For example, assault and battery can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the circumstances, while rape and murder are felonies with the potential for life imprisonment. On the other hand, crimes against property, such as criminal trespassing, burglary, robbery, bribery, blackmail, theft, and arson, involve the unlawful taking or damaging of another's property. The severity of the charges and penalties for these crimes can vary widely based on factors such as the value of the property involved, the presence of a weapon, and the intent of the offender. Virginia's criminal statutes provide specific definitions and penalties for each of these offenses, and an attorney can offer guidance on the nuances of the law and the legal processes involved.