Domestic violence defense attorneys in Lewis County, MO. Have you found yourself facing accusations of domestic violence in Lewis County, MO? These are serious allegations that can have lasting implications, losing VA benefits if you have served your country.
If you’re facing domestic violence charges anywhere in or around Lewis County, MO, it’s imperative to take swift action to safeguard your freedom, reputation, and future. Give the Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys a call immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, no-strings-attached case review. During this confidential meeting, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss the particulars of your case directly with one of our experienced attorneys.
Combs Waterkotte is a distinguished criminal defense law firm, renowned for its compassionate and resolute defense lawyers who have defended the innocence of clients in Lewis County, MO and across Missouri for over 40 years. Our exceptional record and over 250 reviews speaks for itself.
What You Should Do If Accused of Domestic Violence in Lewis County, MO
If you have been accused of or arrested for domestic violence in Lewis County, MO, it’s imperative to take immediate steps to protect your rights and navigate the legal process effectively. Here are the steps you should take:
- Remain Calm: Confronting allegations of domestic violence in the Lewis County, MO area can be daunting and emotional. However, maintaining a composed demeanor is crucial to prevent escalating the situation any further.
- Contact the Combs Waterkotte Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys: Waste no time in reaching out to the experienced domestic violence defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte. Our will provide you with legal guidance, protect your rights, future, and reputation, and provide resolute advocacy throughout the legal process in Lewis County, MO.
- Assert and Maintain Your Innocence: Assert your innocence and refrain from making any statements to Lewis County, MO law enforcement or admissions of guilt without consulting your domestic violence defense attorneys. This is vital to avert self-incrimination and to protect your legal rights.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of the developments in your case and the progress of legal proceedings. While your Lewis County, MO domestic violence defense attorneys will keep you informed, ensure open lines of communication to avoid missing any crucial updates. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you have any uncertainties or concerns.
Situations When You Require Assistance From Domestic Violence Attorneys in Lewis County, MO
Domestic violence encompasses a spectrum of behaviors recognized as abusive within familial or household settings. In the Lewis County, MO area, instances of domestic violence may involve:
- Physical Violence: Considered any intentional physical harm or injury inflicted upon a family or household member. Includes striking, kicking, punching, strangling, or weapon use.
- Emotional Abuse: Psychological manipulation, insults, humiliation, verbal threats, intimidation, isolation, or exerting control that undermines the victim’s self-worth and autonomy.
- Sexual Misconduct: Nonconsensual sexual contact or activity, encompassing offenses such as rape, coerced sexual acts, and sexual harassment within an intimate relationship.
- Stalking: Persistent, unwelcome surveillance, pursuit, monitoring, or harassment leading to fear, distress, or psychological anguish.
- Economic Control: Controlling or withholding financial resources, preventing access to funds or assets, obstructing employment opportunities, or exploiting economic dependence to exert power and control.
- Child Abuse: Any form of mistreatment, neglect, harm, or abandonment inflicted upon a child by you as a parent, guardian, or caregiver within the family or household.
Lewis County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Lewis County and Missouri.
Understanding the Potential Consequences of Domestic Violence in Lewis County, MO
The repercussions of domestic violence in and around Lewis County, MO can vary significantly based on factors like the gravity of the offense, the circumstances surrounding the incident, and any relevant criminal history. Convictions for domestic violence may entail both criminal and civil penalties, including:
- Probation
- Protective Orders
- Pain and Suffering
- Medical Expenses
- Counseling/Treatment Programs
- Incarceration
.
Missouri law breaks domestic assault charges into the following four degrees:
- First Degree Domestic Assault: Under Missouri Revised Statute § 565.072, first degree domestic violence encompasses attempts to cause or knowingly inflict serious physical injury. This offense is classified as a class B felony, unless it results in severe injury, in which case it becomes a class A felony. A class B felony carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, while the class A felony maximum is life in prison.
- Second Degree Domestic Assault: This degree of domestic assault includes any attempt to inflict serious injury knowingly, utilizing a deadly weapon, dangerous instrument, or via strangulation. Second degree domestic assault is categorized as a class C felony, which carries a maximum sentence of 7 years imprisonment.
- Third Degree Domestic Assault: According to RSMo § 565.074, third degree domestic assault is causing physical injury, knowingly inflicting physical pain or illness upon a household or domestic member, or negligently endangering or isolating them. This is a class E felony, carrying a maximum sentence of 4 years in prison.
- Fourth Degree Domestic Assault: Governed by RSMo § 565.076, this level of assault encompasses any attempt to cause or negligently cause physical injury, pain, or illness to any member of your household or family. Fourth degree domestic assault constitutes a class A misdemeanor, carrying a maximum sentence of 1 year imprisonment. However, if there is a prior domestic assault conviction, it elevates to a class E felony.
It’s important to remember that the specifics of each case can significantly differ. Call the Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys in Lewis County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Why is it Important to Hire a Skilled Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Lewis County, MO?
The Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys possess extensive knowledge and experience in the Lewis County, MO legal process. Engaging such experienced legal representation is pivotal for securing the most favorable outcome in your case. After retaining their services, you gain access to the following advantages:
- Legal Proficiency: Domestic violence cases in Lewis County, MO can entail a myriad of complexities involving intricate statutes, rules of evidence, and court procedures. Opting to navigate this path solo is ill-advised. A proficient Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense lawyer has a deep understanding of the local Lewis County, MO and state domestic violence laws and the criminal justice system.
- Strategic Defense: A skilled defense attorney will develop a strategic defense tailored to the specifics of your case. The Combs Waterkotte legal team conducts exhaustive investigations, gathers evidence, and identifies vulnerabilities in the prosecution’s case. This could include challenging witness credibility, contesting evidence, or negotiating for reduced charges or penalties.
- Protection of Your Rights: An experienced and knowledgeable Lewis County, MO domestic violence defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte will ensure that your constitutional rights are protected throughout your legal process. This includes your right to a fair and speedy trial, the right to remain silent, and the right to confront witnesses against you. Your attorney will diligently work to prevent any infringements on your rights by Lewis County, MO law enforcement or prosecutors.
- Familiarity with Local Lewis County, MO Court Procedures: A defense attorney familiar with the Lewis County, MO court system possesses invaluable insights into local judges, prosecutors, and basic, day-to-day courtroom procedures. This knowledge can be instrumental in constructing an effective defense strategy as well as achieving a favorable resolution.
- Minimization of Consequences: A proficient attorney will advocate on your behalf to minimize the potential consequences of domestic violence charges in Lewis County, MO. This could include pursuing alternative sentencing options, like diversion programs or probation, in lieu of incarceration. Your Combs Waterkotte lawyer prioritizes your best interests and strives to attain the most favorable outcome given the specific circumstances of your case. Call our domestic violence defense attorneys right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Combs Waterkotte is a top criminal defense law firm based in St. Louis. Along with expert legal representation from our skilled Lewis County, MO domestic violence defense attorneys, we provide help in the following practice areas for clients in Lewis County, MO:
- Gun Crime Lawyer
- Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
- Homicide Lawyer
- Assault Lawyer
- Rape Defense Lawyer
- Sex Offense Lawyers
- DWI Attorney
- Crime Defense Lawyers
- Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
Reach Out to the Leading Lewis County, MO Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys at Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing domestic violence allegations in the Lewis County, MO area, it’s imperative to consult with a seasoned attorney capable of offering tailored guidance and representation. Your freedom and reputation hang in the balance. You work hard; so should your lawyers. You need the best possible balance of compassion, aggression, and expertise on your side.
Contact the Lewis County, MO domestic violence defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.