Arnold, MO

Assault Lawyer in Arnold, MO. Facing assault charges in Arnold, MO is a serious situation that can have life-altering consequences. A conviction can lead to significant penalties, including jail time, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record, not to mention the social stigma that comes with it.

If you’re charged with assault in Arnold, MO or elsewhere in Missouri, having a skilled assault and battery lawyer on your side could make all the difference between jail and freedom.
Contact Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation where you can discuss the specifics of your case with an expert Arnold, MO defense attorney.

Assault Lawyer in Arnold, MO: Understanding Assault Charges

Assault is traditionally defined as “any deliberate act that causes another person to fear imminent physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, threatening gestures, and any attempt to strike another person. Battery, on the other hand, is defined as “the act of causing physical injury.” In essence, assault involves the threat of harm, while battery involves the actual physical act.

Assault charges can vary widely in severity depending on the circumstances of your case in Arnold, MO. Below is an overview of some common assault charges our experienced Arnold, MO criminal defense attorneys have handled:

• Simple Assault: This usually involves threats of violence or minor physical contact that doesn’t result in serious injury. Even though it may seem less severe, a simple assault conviction can still result in considerable penalties.
• Aggravated Assault: This includes more severe actions, like using a deadly weapon or inflicting significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is often treated as a felony, leading to more severe penalties in Arnold, MO.
• Domestic Assault: Charges related to violence or threats against a spouse, partner, family member, or someone living in the same household. Domestic assault cases can be more complicated due to the personal relationships involved.
• Assault with a Deadly Weapon: An enhanced charge where the accused allegedly used a weapon during the assault. This can include firearms, knives, or any object used in a manner that could cause serious harm.

Facing these charges or anything similar in or around Arnold, MO? You need to speak with an expert Arnold, 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 Arnold, MO

In Arnold, MO and throughout Missouri, assault charges are divided into four degrees, each with its own specific criteria and associated penalties:

First Degree Assault in Arnold, 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 occurs, it’s a Class B Felony, with a sentence ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison.

Second Degree Assault in Arnold, MO

• Criteria: The charge of second-degree assault applies when someone:
  • Attempts to kill or knowingly cause serious physical injury to another individual under the influence of sudden passion arising out of adequate cause.
  • Attempts to cause or knowingly causes physical injury to another individual by means of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument.
  • Recklessly causes severe physical harm to someone else.
  • Causes injury while intoxicated and operating a vehicle or boat.
  • Physically harms a law enforcement officer or emergency responder.
• Penalties: If the assault involves a law enforcement officer, it’s a Class B Felony and can result in 5 to 15 years in prison. For other assault cases, they’re a Class D Felony with a potential prison sentence of 1 to 7 years.

Third Degree Assault in Arnold, MO

• Criteria: Third-degree assault in Arnold, MO occurs when an individual knowingly inflicts physical injury on another individual or recklessly causes serious injury.
• Penalties: This offense is categorized as a Class E Felony, with consequences including up to 4 years in prison, fines, or probation. If the victim is a special victim, it’s elevated to a Class D Felony.

Fourth Degree Assault in Arnold, MO

• Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and may include:
  • Attempting to cause physical harm or placing someone in apprehension of immediate physical harm.
  • Recklessly causing physical harm or offensive physical contact.
  • Negligently causing physical harm with a deadly weapon.
• Penalties: This degree of assault is considered a Class A Misdemeanor which can include up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $2,000. However, if the assault involves a special victim, it is a Class E Felony meaning up to 4 years in prison.

Assault Lawyer: Why You Need Combs Waterkotte on Your Side in Arnold, MO

Assault charges can be complex, and the Arnold, 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 Arnold, MO:

Developing a Comprehensive Defense Strategy in Arnold, MO

Every assault case is unique, and your lawyer will thoroughly investigate the details of your circumstances to build a tailored defense strategy. This could include:

• Challenging the Evidence: Carefully analyzing the prosecution’s evidence for potential inconsistencies, mistakes, or any infringement of your rights.
• Exploring Self-Defense: Arguing that your actions were taken in self-defense or in defense of another person. Additional strong defenses might include: lack of intent, consent, and false accusation.
• Disputing Witness Testimony: Identifying potential biases or unreliable aspects in witness statements.
• Negotiating Charges: Working to secure alternative sentencing, or to reduce or dismiss the charges where possible.

Working to Reduce Penalties in Arnold, MO

Even if a conviction seems imminent, a dedicated Arnold, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can focus on reducing the penalties you might face. Strategies could involve:

• Seeking reduced charges or more lenient sentencing.
• Negotiating for probation, community service, diversion programs, or other alternatives to prison time.
• Seeking to expunge or seal records where eligible, reducing the long-term effects of a conviction.

Defending Your Rights in Arnold, MO

From the moment you’re charged in Arnold, MO, your rights could be compromised. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Arnold, MO assault defense lawyer is committed to ensuring that your constitutional rights are protected throughout every stage of the legal process throughout investigations and court proceedings.

When you’re facing an assault charge in or around Arnold, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the best assault lawyer in Arnold, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our esteemed assault defense attorneys, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Arnold and beyond:

• Gun Crime Lawyer
• Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
• Homicide Lawyer
• Rape Defense Lawyer
• Sex Offense Lawyers
• DWI Attorney
• Crime Defense Lawyers
• Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
• Child Pornography Defense Lawyer

Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Arnold, MO

Combs Waterkotte is your trusted partner for assault defense in Arnold, MO, leveraging over 30 years of combined experience and an in-depth understanding of the complexities of criminal law in Arnold, MO. Our dedication to our clients is unmatched, and we strive to secure the best possible outcomes. Here’s what makes Combs Waterkotte stand out:

• Client-First Philosophy: We maintain clear and consistent communication with our Arnold, MO clients, ensuring you’re informed and engaged throughout the entire process.
• Expertise: Our attorneys have a proven track record, successfully defending hundreds of clients in assault cases similar to yours in Arnold, MO.
• Relentless Advocacy: We’re committed to challenging the prosecution and vigorously defending your rights, both inside and outside the courtroom.
• Proven Track Record: Our more than 300 reviews and track record throughout Arnold, MO speak volumes, with numerous cases resulting in reduced charges and dismissed charges.

Reach Out to a Leading Arnold, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today

If you’re facing assault charges in Arnold, MO, don’t wait to see what happens. Get the legal help you need right away. Contact the Combs Waterkotte assault lawyers today for a free, no-obligation case review with an experienced attorney. We’re here to help defend your rights and fight for your future in Arnold, MO.

Reach out to us today at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.