Assault Lawyer in Pettis County, MO. Facing an assault charge in Pettis County, 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 Pettis County, MO societal stigma that accompanies it.
Pettis County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Pettis County and Missouri.
If you’re facing assault charges anywhere in the Pettis 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 where you can discuss the specifics of your case with an expert Pettis County, MO defense attorney.
Assault Lawyer: Understanding Pettis County, MO Assault Charges
Assault is often defined as “any intentional act that causes another individual to fear imminent physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, threatening gestures, and any attempt to strike another individual. On the other hand, battery is defined as “the act of causing physical injury.” 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 Pettis County, MO. Below is a quick overview of some common assault charges our knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys in Pettis County, MO frequently work on:
- 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 conviction for simple assault can still result in considerable penalties.
- Aggravated Assault: This encompasses more severe offenses, such as assault with a deadly weapon or causing significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically considered a felony, leading to more severe penalties in Pettis County, 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.
Facing these charges or anything similar in or around Pettis County, MO? You need to speak with an expert Pettis County, 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 Pettis County, MO
In Pettis County, MO and across Missouri, assault charges are divided into four degrees, each with its own specific criteria and associated penalties:
First Degree Assault in Pettis 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 injury is inflicted, it’s considered a Class A Felony, resulting in 10-30 years or life imprisonment. If no serious injury results, it’s a Class B Felony, which ranges from 5 to 15 years in prison.
Second Degree Assault in Pettis County, MO
- Criteria: The charge of second-degree assault is applicable 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 serious physical injury to another individual.
- Injures another while driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Injures 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 with potential imprisonment ranging from 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Pettis County, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Pettis County, MO occurs when an individual knowingly causes physical injury or recklessly inflicts serious injury on another another individual or recklessly causes serious harm.
- Penalties: These are classified 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 Pettis County, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and can include:
- Attempting to cause physical injury or placing someone in apprehension of immediate physical harm.
- Recklessly causing physical harm or offensive physical contact.
- Negligently causing physical injury 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 Pettis County, MO
Assault charges can be complex, and the Pettis County, 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 Pettis County, MO:
Developing a Comprehensive Defense Strategy in Pettis County, 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:
- Evaluating the Evidence: Investigating the prosecution’s evidence for discrepancies, mistakes, or violations of your rights.
- Arguing Self-Defense: Demonstrating that you were acting in self-defense or in defense of another person. Other potential defenses might include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and false accusation.
- Disputing Witness Testimony: Identifying potential biases or unreliable aspects in witness statements.
- Negotiating Charges: Engaging to secure alternative sentencing, or to reduce or dismiss the charges where possible.
Efforts to Mitigate Penalties in Pettis County, MO
Even if a conviction appears unavoidable, a dedicated Pettis County, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can focus on reducing the consequences you might face. This could include:
- Seeking reduced charges or lighter sentencing.
- Negotiating for probation, community service, diversion programs, or other alternatives to prison time.
- Attempting to expunge or seal your records when possible, minimizing the long-term repercussions of a conviction.
Defending Your Rights in Pettis County, MO
From the moment charges are filed in Pettis County, MO, your rights are at risk. A skilled|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Pettis County, MO assault defense lawyer ensures that your constitutional rights are protected throughout receive equitable treatment throughout investigations and court proceedings.
When you’re facing an assault charge in or around Pettis County, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the leading assault lawyer in Pettis County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting 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 Pettis County and beyond:
Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Pettis County, MO
Combs Waterkotte specializes in defending assault charges in Pettis County, MO, bringing more than three decades of experience and an in-depth knowledge of the complexities of criminal law in Pettis County, MO. Our commitment to our clients is unwavering, and we work tirelessly to make sure you receive the best possible outcome. What sets Combs Waterkotte apart:
- Client-Focused: We maintain clear and consistent communication with our Pettis County, MO clients, ensuring you’re informed and engaged throughout the entire process.
- Expertise: Our attorneys have successfully defended hundreds of clients against assault charges in cases just like yours in Pettis County, MO.
- Relentless Advocacy: We are not afraid to challenge the prosecution and fight for your rights in and out of the courtroom.
- Demonstrated Success: Our more than 350 reviews and track record throughout Pettis County, MO speak volumes, with numerous cases resulting in reduced charges and dismissed charges.
Contact the Top Pettis County, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Right Now
If you’re facing assault charges in or around Pettis County, MO, it’s crucial to act swiftly. 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 Pettis County, 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 Pettis County, MO.
Reach out to us as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.
