Assault Lawyer in Barry County, MO. Facing assault charges in Barry County, 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 facing assault charges anywhere in the Barry County, MO area or across Missouri, having an experienced assault and battery lawyer by your side can be the difference between staring down those significant penalties and 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 a knowledgeable Barry County, MO defense attorney.
Assault Lawyer: Understanding Barry County, MO Assault Charges
Assault is traditionally defined as “any intentional act that causes another person to fear imminent physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, aggressive gestures, and any attempt to strike another individual. On the other hand, battery is defined as “the act of causing physical harm.” In summary, assault is the act of threatening someone with physical harm, while battery is the actual act.
Assault charges can vary widely in severity depending on the circumstances of your case in Barry County, MO. Below is a quick overview of some common assault charges our skilled criminal defense attorneys in Barry County, MO frequently deal with:
- Simple Assault: This usually 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 serious offenses, like assault with a deadly weapon or inflicting substantial bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically classified as a felony, leading to much stricter consequences in Barry County, MO.
- Domestic Assault: Charges that stem from 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 close personal relationships involved.
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon: An enhanced 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 manner that could cause serious injury.
If you’re facing these charges or anything similar in or around Barry County, MO, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced Barry County, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
Assault Lawyer Barry County, MO: Types of Assault Charges
In Barry County, MO and across Missouri, assault charges are categorized into four degrees, each with its own specific criteria and associated penalties:
First Degree Assault in Barry County, MO
- Criteria: First-degree assault involves an intentional attempt to kill another individual or knowingly causing or attempting to cause serious physical harm to someone.
- Penalties: If serious physical injury results, it is classified as a Class A Felony, punishable by 10-30 years or life in prison. If no serious injury results, it’s a Class B Felony, which ranges from 5 to 15 years in prison.
Second Degree Assault in Barry County, MO
- Criteria: The charge of second-degree assault is applicable when someone:
- Attempts to kill or causes serious physical injury under the influence of sudden passion provoked by adequate cause.
- Attempts to cause or knowingly causes physical injury to another individual by means of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument.
- Recklessly causes serious physical injury to another individual.
- Causes injury while intoxicated and operating a vehicle or boat.
- Physically harms a law enforcement officer or emergency responder.
- Penalties: When a law enforcement officer is involved, it’s classified as a Class B Felony, leading to 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 Barry County, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Barry County, MO occurs when someone knowingly inflicts physical injury on 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 Barry County, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least serious assault charge and may include:
- Attempting to cause physical injury or placing someone in apprehension of immediate physical harm.
- Recklessly causing physical injury or offensive contact.
- Negligently causing physical harm using 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 Barry County, MO: Why Combs Waterkotte is the Defense You Need
An assault charge is serious, and the legal landscape in Barry County, MO can be intimidating. It’s essential to have an expert assault defense lawyer by your side to guide you through this complex process. Here’s exactly how Combs Waterkotte can support you in Barry County, MO:
Developing a Comprehensive Defense Strategy in Barry County, MO
Each Barry County, 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 discrepancies, errors, or breaches of your rights.
- Arguing Self-Defense: Arguing that your actions were taken in self-defense or in defense of others. Other strong defenses can include: lack of intent, consent, and false accusation.
- Questioning Witness Testimony: Identifying potential biases or inconsistencies in the statements provided by witnesses.
- Negotiating with the Prosecution: Engaging to secure alternative sentencing, or to reduce or dismiss the charges where possible.
Striving to Lessen Penalties in Barry County, MO
Even if a conviction seems imminent, a dedicated Barry County, MO Combs Waterkotte defense lawyer can focus on reducing the consequences you might face. This might include:
- Seeking reduced charges or lighter sentencing.
- Advocating 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.
Protecting Your Rights in Barry County, MO
Once you are charged in Barry County, MO, your rights could be compromised. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Barry County, MO assault defense attorney will ensure that your constitutional rights are upheld throughout every stage of the legal process throughout investigations and court proceedings.
If you’re facing an assault charge in or around Barry County, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the leading assault lawyer in Barry County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our knowledgeable assault defense attorneys, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for Barry County, MO residents:
- Rape Defense Lawyer
- Sex Offense Lawyers
- DWI Attorney
- Crime Defense Lawyers
- Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
- Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
- Criminal Lawyer
- Juvenile Defense Lawyer
Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Barry County, MO
Combs Waterkotte specializes in defending assault charges in Barry County, MO, bringing over three decades of experience and an in-depth understanding of the complexities of criminal law in Barry County, MO. Our dedication to our clients is unmatched, and we strive to secure the best possible outcomes. Here’s why Combs Waterkotte is the right choice:
- Client-Focused: We prioritize open communication with our Barry County, MO clients, keeping you informed and involved every step of the way.
- Expertise: Our legal team has defended hundreds of clients facing assault charges just like yours in Barry County, MO, bringing a wealth of experience to your case.
- Tenacious Defense: 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 Barry County, MO and beyond, our history of success is clear, with many clients seeing reduced or dismissed charges.
Contact the Top Barry County, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Right Now
If you’re dealing with assault charges in the Barry County, MO area, don’t delay in seeking the legal representation you need. 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 Barry County, MO.
Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.
