Assault Lawyer in Bridgeton, MO. Facing an assault charge in Bridgeton, MO is a critical situation that can lead to life-changing consequences. A conviction could mean harsh penalties, including prison time, substantial fines, and a lasting criminal record, as well as the Bridgeton, MO societal stigma that accompanies it.
If you are facing an assault charge in Bridgeton, MO or anywhere in Missouri, securing the services of an experienced assault and battery lawyer can be the key to avoiding those severe consequences and maintaining your freedom.
Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation to go over the specifics of your case with an experienced Bridgeton, MO defense attorney.
Assault Lawyer: Understanding Bridgeton, MO Assault Charges
Assault is generally defined as “any deliberate act that causes another person to fear physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, aggressive gestures, and any attempt to cause physical harm. Battery, on the other hand, is defined as “the act of causing physical harm.” In summary, assault is the threat of harm, while battery involves the actual physical act.
Assault charges in Bridgeton, MO can range in severity depending on the specifics of your situation. Below is a quick overview of some common assault charges our skilled criminal defense attorneys in Bridgeton, MO frequently work on:
- Simple Assault: This typically involves threats of violence or minor physical contact that doesn’t result in serious injury. While it might seem less serious, a simple assault conviction can still bring about severe consequences.
- Aggravated Assault: This encompasses more severe offenses, such as using a deadly weapon or inflicting significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically classified as a felony, leading to more severe consequences in Bridgeton, MO.
- Domestic Assault: Charges that involve violence or threats against a spouse, partner, family member, or someone within the same household. Domestic assault cases are often more complex due to the personal relationships involved.
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon: A more severe charge where the accused is alleged to have used a weapon during the assault. This could involve firearms, knives, or any object used in a way that could cause serious injury.
Facing these charges or anything similar in or around Bridgeton, MO? You need to speak with an expert Bridgeton, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Give us a call now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
Assault Lawyer: Types of Assault Charges in Bridgeton, MO
In Bridgeton, MO and throughout Missouri, assault charges are classified into four degrees. Each degree has specific criteria and penalties associated with it:
First Degree Assault in Bridgeton, MO
- Criteria: First-degree assault involves intentionally attempting to kill someone or knowingly causing or attempting to cause serious physical injury to another individual.
- Penalties: If a serious physical injury occurs, it’s categorized as a Class A Felony which leads to 10-30 years or life imprisonment. If no serious injury results, it’s a Class B Felony, with a sentence ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison.
Second Degree Assault in Bridgeton, MO
- Criteria: The charge of second-degree assault is applicable when someone:
- Attempts to kill or knowingly causes severe physical harm under sudden passion due to adequate cause.
- Attempts to cause or intentionally inflicts injury using a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument.
- Recklessly causes serious physical injury to another individual.
- Injures another while driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Harms a law enforcement officer or emergency personnel.
- Penalties: Assault on a law enforcement officer is classified as a Class B Felony, with penalties ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison. For other cases, it’s considered a Class D Felony and imprisonment ranges from 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Bridgeton, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Bridgeton, MO occurs when an individual knowingly causes physical injury or recklessly inflicts serious injury on another another individual or recklessly causes serious injury.
- Penalties: This charge is typically a Class E Felony, which can include up to 4 years in prison, fines, or probation, unless the assault was on a special victim, in which case it is a Class D Felony.
Fourth Degree Assault in Bridgeton, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and may include:
- Attempting to cause physical injury or placing someone in apprehension of immediate physical injury.
- Recklessly causing physical injury or making unwanted physical contact.
- Negligently causing physical injury using a deadly weapon.
- Penalties: This charge is generally a Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $2,000. However, if a special victim is involved, it escalates to a Class E Felony, carrying up to 4 years in prison.
Assault Lawyer Bridgeton, MO: Why Combs Waterkotte is the Defense You Need
Assault charges can be complex, and the Bridgeton, MO legal system is daunting. You need an experienced assault defense lawyer on your side, one who provides the expertise needed to navigate this challenging process. Here’s how Combs Waterkotte can help you in Bridgeton, MO:
Developing a Comprehensive Defense Strategy in Bridgeton, MO
Each Bridgeton, MO assault case comes with its own set of complexities. Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation into your case to develop a tailored assault defense strategy that might include:
- Evaluating the Evidence: Investigating the prosecution’s evidence for inconsistencies, mistakes, or violations of your rights.
- Proving Self-Defense: Proving that your actions were in self-defense or in defense of others. Additional strong defenses might include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and false accusation.
- Disputing Witness Testimony: Identifying biases or unreliable aspects in witness statements.
- Negotiating with the Prosecution: Engaging to secure alternative sentencing, or to reduce or dismiss the charges where possible.
Working to Reduce Penalties in Bridgeton, MO
Even if a conviction seems imminent, an experienced Bridgeton, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can focus on reducing the consequences you face. This might include:
- Negotiating for reduced charges or more lenient sentences.
- Negotiating for probation, community service, diversion programs, or other alternatives to incarceration.
- Seeking to expunge or seal records where eligible, reducing the long-term effects of a conviction.
Defending Your Rights in Bridgeton, MO
From the moment you’re charged in Bridgeton, MO, your rights could be compromised. A skilled|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Bridgeton, MO assault defense lawyer is committed to ensuring that your constitutional rights are preserved throughout receive fair treatment throughout investigations and court proceedings.
When you are accused of assault in or around Bridgeton, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the leading assault lawyer in Bridgeton, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our experienced assault defense lawyers, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Bridgeton and beyond:
Assault Lawyer Bridgeton, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte
At Combs Waterkotte, we specialize in defending assault charges in Bridgeton, MO, bringing over three decades of experience and an in-depth knowledge of criminal law to deliver exceptional results. We are fully committed to our clients, working diligently to ensure the best outcomes possible. Here’s what makes Combs Waterkotte stand out:
- Client-Centered Approach: We emphasize transparent communication, keeping you informed and involved in every step of your defense.
- Expertise: Our legal team has defended hundreds of clients facing assault charges just like yours in Bridgeton, MO, bringing a wealth of experience to your case.
- Relentless Advocacy: We aren’t afraid to confront the prosecution head-on, safeguarding your rights and pursuing the strongest possible defense.
- Demonstrated Success: With over 300 positive reviews and numerous case victories in Bridgeton, MO and beyond, our history of success is clear, with many clients seeing reduced or dismissed charges.
Reach Out to a Leading Bridgeton, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you’re dealing with assault charges in the Bridgeton, MO area, don’t delay in seeking the legal representation you need. Reach out to the assault defense team at Combs Waterkotte for a free, no-obligation consultation with a skilled attorney. We’re dedicated to protecting your rights and advocating for your future in Bridgeton, MO. Contact the experienced assault attorneys at Combs Waterkotte for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. We are dedicated to defending your rights and securing the best outcome for your case in Bridgeton, MO.
Reach out to us today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
