Assault Lawyer in Independence, MO. Being charged with assault in Independence, MO is a serious matter that can dramatically impact your life. From severe penalties like incarceration, steep fines, and a permanent record, in addition to the lasting social repercussions throughout Independence, MO, an assault conviction is no joke.
If you’re charged with assault in Independence, 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 a knowledgeable Independence, MO defense attorney.
Assault Lawyer in Independence, MO: Understanding Assault Charges
Assault is often 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 strike another individual. Battery, on the other hand, is defined as “the act of inflicting 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 Independence, MO. Below is a quick overview of some common assault charges our experienced Independence, 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. Even though it may seem less severe, a simple assault conviction can still result in considerable penalties.
- Aggravated Assault: This includes more serious actions, like assault with a deadly weapon or causing substantial bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically considered a felony, leading to much stricter penalties in Independence, MO.
- Domestic Assault: Charges related to violence or threats against a spouse, partner, family member, or someone within 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 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.
Are you facing these or similar charges in the Independence, MO area? It’s important to speak with a skilled Independence, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Contact us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
Assault Lawyer Independence, MO: Types of Assault Charges
In Independence, MO and across Missouri, assault charges are classified into four degrees. Each degree is based on specific actions and carries its own set of penalties:
First Degree Assault in Independence, 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 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, which carries a prison sentence of 5 to 15 years.
Second Degree Assault in Independence, MO
- Criteria: The charge of second-degree assault applies when someone:
- Attempts to kill or knowingly causes severe physical harm under sudden passion due to adequate cause.
- Uses a deadly weapon or dangerous object to inflict or attempt to inflict injury.
- Recklessly causes severe physical harm to someone else.
- Injures another while driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Harms a law enforcement officer or emergency personnel.
- 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 instances, it is a Class D Felony with potential imprisonment ranging from 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Independence, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Independence, MO occurs when someone knowingly causes physical injury or recklessly inflicts serious injury on another another individual or recklessly causes serious harm.
- Penalties: This charge is typically 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 Independence, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least serious assault charge and may include:
- Attempting to cause physical harm or placing someone in fear of immediate physical injury.
- Recklessly causing physical injury or making unwanted physical contact.
- Negligently causing physical injury with a deadly weapon.
- Penalties: Generally, this charge is a Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $2,000. However, if the offense involves a special victim, it’s upgraded to a Class E Felony, with a potential sentence of up to 4 years in prison.
Assault Lawyer Independence, MO: Why You Need Combs Waterkotte Fighting for You
Assault charges can be complex, and the Independence, 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 Independence, MO:
Building a Strong Defense Strategy in Independence, MO
No two assault cases in Independence, MO are alike. Your attorney will carefully analyze the specifics of your situation to formulate a personalized defense strategy. This may involve:
- Evaluating the Evidence: Examining the prosecution’s evidence for inconsistencies, mistakes, or breaches of your rights.
- Exploring Self-Defense: Demonstrating that you were acting in self-defense or in defense of others. Additional strong defenses might include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and being falsely accused.
- Questioning Witness Testimony: Highlighting any potential biases or unreliable testimonies from witnesses.
- Negotiating with the Prosecution: Engaging with prosecutors to explore alternative sentencing options, or reduce or dismiss charges.
Efforts to Mitigate Penalties in Independence, MO
Even if a conviction seems likely, an experienced Independence, MO Combs Waterkotte defense lawyer can aim to mitigate the penalties you face. Strategies could involve:
- Seeking reduced charges or lighter sentences.
- Negotiating for alternatives to jail time, such as probation, community service, or diversion programs.
- Attempting to expunge or seal your records when possible, minimizing the long-term repercussions of a conviction.
Defending Your Rights in Independence, MO
From the moment you’re charged in Independence, MO, your rights are at risk. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Independence, 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’re facing an assault charge in or around Independence, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the leading assault lawyer in Independence, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our experienced assault defense attorneys, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Independence and beyond:
- 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 Independence, MO
Combs Waterkotte specializes in defending assault charges in Independence, MO, leveraging more than 30 years of combined experience and an in-depth understanding of the complexities of criminal law in Independence, 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-Focused: We prioritize open communication with our Independence, MO clients, keeping you informed and involved every step of the way.
- Expertise: Our attorneys have defended hundreds of clients facing assault charges just like yours in Independence, 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.
- Proven Results: With over 300 positive reviews and numerous case victories in Independence, MO and beyond, our history of success is clear, with many clients seeing reduced or dismissed charges.
Contact the Top Independence, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Right Now
If you’re dealing with assault charges in Independence, MO, 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 Independence, 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 Independence, MO.
Reach out to us immediately at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.
