Assault Lawyer in Hannibal, MO. Facing an assault charge in Hannibal, 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 Hannibal, MO societal stigma that accompanies it.
If you’re facing assault charges anywhere in the Hannibal, 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.
Call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation to go over the specifics of your case with an expert Hannibal, MO defense attorney.
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See what Chris has to say about Combs Waterkotte Law Firm after Combs Waterkotte helped him with his felony charge, and restored him to his everyday life. Criminal Defense Lawyers in Missouri.
Chris – Client Testimonial
See what Chris has to say about Combs Waterkotte Law Firm after Combs Waterkotte helped him with his felony charge, and restored him to his everyday life. Criminal Defense Lawyers in Missouri.
Assault Lawyer in Hannibal, MO: A Guide to Assault Charges
Assault is generally defined as “any intentional act that causes another person to fear physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, threatening gestures, and any attempt to cause physical harm. On the other hand, battery is defined as “the act of inflicting injury.” In summary, assault is the threat of harm, while battery involves the actual physical act.
Assault charges in Hannibal, MO can range in severity depending on the specifics of your situation. Below is an overview of some common assault charges our experienced criminal defense attorneys in Hannibal, MO frequently work on:
- 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 conviction for simple assault can still result in considerable penalties.
- Aggravated Assault: This encompasses more serious offenses, such as using a deadly weapon or causing substantial bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically considered a felony, leading to more severe consequences in Hannibal, 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 often have additional complications due to the personal relationships involved.
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon: An escalated 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 Hannibal, MO? You need to speak with an expert Hannibal, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Give us a call now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
Marion County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Marion County and Missouri.
Assault Lawyer Hannibal, MO: Types of Assault Charges
In Hannibal, MO and throughout Missouri, assault charges are divided into four degrees, each with its own specific criteria and associated penalties:
First Degree Assault in Hannibal, 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 serious physical injury results, it is classified as a Class A Felony, punishable by 10-30 years or life in prison. Without serious injury, it’s classified as a Class B Felony, with a sentence ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison.
Second Degree Assault in Hannibal, MO
- Criteria: The charge of second-degree assault applies 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 driving or boating under the influence.
- Physically 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 with potential imprisonment ranging from 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Hannibal, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Hannibal, 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 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 Hannibal, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and can include:
- Attempting to cause physical harm or placing someone in apprehension of immediate physical harm.
- Recklessly causing physical injury or offensive contact.
- Negligently causing physical injury with 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 Hannibal, MO: Why Combs Waterkotte is the Defense You Need
Facing an assault charge is daunting, and navigating the Hannibal, 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 Hannibal, MO:
Building a Strong Defense Strategy in Hannibal, MO
Each Hannibal, 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:
- Scrutinizing the Evidence: Carefully analyzing the prosecution’s evidence for discrepancies, mistakes, or violations of your rights.
- Proving Self-Defense: Arguing that your actions were taken in self-defense or in defense of another person. Other potential defenses can include: lack of intent, consent, and false accusation.
- Disputing Witness Testimony: Identifying biases or unreliable testimonies from witnesses.
- Negotiating with the Prosecution: Working with prosecutors to seek alternative sentences, or work toward reducing or dismissing charges altogether.
Working to Reduce Penalties in Hannibal, MO
Even if a conviction seems likely, a dedicated Hannibal, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can aim to mitigate the consequences you face. Strategies might include:
- Negotiating for reduced charges or more lenient sentences.
- Advocating for probation, community service, diversion programs, or other alternatives to incarceration.
- Attempting to expunge or seal your records when possible, minimizing the long-term repercussions of a conviction.
Defending Your Rights in Hannibal, MO
Once you are charged in Hannibal, MO, your rights could be compromised. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Hannibal, MO assault defense lawyer will ensure that your constitutional rights are protected throughout receive fair treatment throughout investigations and court proceedings.
If you are accused of assault in or around Hannibal, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the ideal assault lawyer in Hannibal, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our experienced assault defense lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for Hannibal, MO residents:
Assault Lawyer Hannibal, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte
Combs Waterkotte specializes in defending assault charges in Hannibal, MO, leveraging more than 30 years of combined experience and a deep understanding of criminal law to deliver exceptional results. Our commitment to our clients is unwavering, and we work tirelessly to make sure you receive the best possible outcome. Here’s what makes Combs Waterkotte stand out:
- Client-First Philosophy: We prioritize open communication with our Hannibal, MO clients, keeping you informed and involved every step of the way.
- Expertise: Our attorneys have a proven track record, successfully defending hundreds of clients in assault cases similar to yours in Hannibal, MO.
- Tenacious Defense: We’re committed to challenging the prosecution and vigorously defending your rights, both inside and outside the courtroom.
- Proven Results: Our 350+ reviews and extensive case history in and around Hannibal, MO demonstrate our ability to achieve favorable outcomes, including reduced and dismissed charges.
Reach Out to a Leading Hannibal, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you’re dealing with assault charges in or around Hannibal, MO, it’s crucial to act swiftly. 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 Hannibal, MO.
Reach out to us today at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.
