Fulton, MO

Assault Lawyer in Fulton, MO. Facing assault charges in Fulton, 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 are facing an assault charge in Fulton, 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.
Call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation where you can discuss the specifics of your case with a knowledgeable Fulton, MO defense attorney.

Assault Lawyer: Understanding Fulton, MO Assault Charges

Assault is generally defined as “any intentional act that causes another individual to fear imminent physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, aggressive gestures, and any attempt to strike another person. On the other hand, battery is defined as “the act of causing physical harm.” In essence, assault involves the threat of harm, while battery involves the actual physical act.

Assault charges in Fulton, MO can range in severity depending on the specifics of your situation. Below is an overview of some common assault charges our experienced Fulton, MO criminal defense attorneys have handled:

• Simple Assault: This typically involves threats of violence or minor physical contact that doesn’t result in serious injury. Despite appearing less severe, a simple assault conviction can still carry significant penalties.
• Aggravated Assault: This encompasses more serious offenses, like assault with a deadly weapon or inflicting significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is often treated as a felony, leading to harsher consequences in Fulton, 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 can include firearms, knives, or any object used in a manner that could cause serious harm.

If you’re facing these charges or anything similar in or around Fulton, MO, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced Fulton, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.

Assault Lawyer Fulton, MO: Types of Assault Charges

In Fulton, MO and across Missouri, assault charges are categorized into four degrees. Each degree is based on specific actions and carries its own set of penalties:

First Degree Assault in Fulton, MO

• Criteria: First-degree assault occurs when someone intentionally attempts to take another individual’s life or knowingly causes or attempts to cause severe physical injury.
• Penalties: If serious injury is inflicted, it’s considered a Class A Felony, resulting in 10-30 years or life imprisonment. If no serious injury occurs, it’s classified as a Class B Felony, with a sentence ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison.

Second Degree Assault in Fulton, 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.
  • Injures another while driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Harms a law enforcement officer or emergency personnel.
• 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 and imprisonment ranges from 1 to 7 years.

Third Degree Assault in Fulton, MO

• Criteria: Third-degree assault in Fulton, MO occurs when an individual knowingly causes physical injury to another individual or recklessly causes serious injury.
• Penalties: This offense is categorized as 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 Fulton, MO

• Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least serious assault charge and may involve:
  • Attempting to cause physical injury or placing someone in apprehension of immediate physical harm.
  • Recklessly causing physical harm 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: Why You Need Combs Waterkotte on Your Side in Fulton, MO

Facing an assault charge is daunting, and navigating the Fulton, MO-area legal system can be overwhelming. An experienced assault defense lawyer is vital in helping you manage this challenging process. Here’s why Combs Waterkotte is your best ally in Fulton, MO:

Crafting a Robust Defense Strategy in Fulton, 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 inconsistencies, mistakes, or violations of your rights.
• Arguing 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.
• Challenging Witness Testimonies: Highlighting any potential biases or unreliable testimonies from witnesses.
• Negotiating Charges: Working with prosecutors to explore alternative sentencing options, or reduce or dismiss charges.

Efforts to Mitigate Penalties in Fulton, MO

Even if a conviction seems likely, a dedicated Fulton, MO Combs Waterkotte defense lawyer can aim to mitigate the consequences you face. Strategies could include:

• Pursuing reduced charges or lighter sentencing.
• Advocating for probation, community service, diversion, or other alternatives to incarceration.
• Expunging or sealing records where possible to limit the long-term impact of a conviction.

Safeguarding Your Rights in Fulton, MO

Once you are charged in Fulton, MO, your rights are in jeopardy. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Fulton, MO assault defense lawyer is committed to ensuring that your constitutional rights are protected throughout every stage of the legal process during investigations and court proceedings.

If you’re accused of assault in or around Fulton, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the leading assault lawyer in Fulton, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable assault defense attorneys, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for Fulton, MO residents:

• 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 Fulton, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte

Combs Waterkotte specializes in defending assault charges in Fulton, MO, leveraging over 30 years of combined experience and an in-depth understanding of the complexities of criminal law in Fulton, 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 emphasize transparent communication, keeping you informed and involved in every step of your defense.
• Expertise: Our attorneys have defended hundreds of clients facing assault charges just like yours in Fulton, MO, bringing a wealth of experience to your case.
• Relentless Advocacy: We are not afraid to challenge the prosecution and fight for your rights in and out of the courtroom.
• Proven Results: With over 300 positive reviews and numerous case victories in Fulton, MO and beyond, our history of success is clear, with many clients seeing reduced or dismissed charges.

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

If you’re confronted with assault charges in the Fulton, MO area, 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 Fulton, MO.

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