Assault Lawyer in Saline County, MO. Being charged with assault in Saline County, 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 Saline County, MO, an assault conviction is no joke.
If you’re facing assault charges anywhere in the Saline 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.
Contact Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation to go over the specifics of your case with an expert Saline County, MO defense attorney.
Assault Lawyer in Saline County, MO: A Guide to Assault Charges
Assault is often defined as “any deliberate act that causes another person to fear physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, threatening gestures, and any attempt to strike another person. On the other hand, battery is defined as “the act of causing physical injury.” In short, assault is the act of threatening someone with physical harm, while battery is the actual act.
Assault charges in Saline County, MO can range in severity depending on the specifics of your situation. Below is an overview of some common assault charges our knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys in Saline County, MO have handled:
- Simple Assault: Often involving threats of violence or minor physical altercations that don’t result in serious injury. Despite appearing less severe, a simple assault conviction can still bring about severe consequences.
- Aggravated Assault: This involves more serious actions, like using a deadly weapon or causing substantial bodily harm. Aggravated assault is often treated as a felony, leading to much stricter consequences in Saline 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 can be more complicated due to the close 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 could involve 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 Saline County, MO, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced Saline County, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
Assault Lawyer Saline County, MO: Types of Assault Charges
In Saline County, MO and across Missouri, assault charges are divided into four degrees. Each degree has specific criteria and penalties associated with it:
First Degree Assault in Saline County, 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. If no serious injury occurs, it’s a Class B Felony, which carries a prison sentence of 5 to 15 years.
Second Degree Assault in Saline 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.
- Uses a deadly weapon or dangerous object to inflict or attempt to inflict injury.
- Recklessly inflicts serious injury on another individual.
- Injures another while driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Harms a law enforcement officer or emergency responder.
- 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 instances, it is a Class D Felony and imprisonment ranges from 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Saline County, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Saline County, MO occurs when an individual knowingly causes physical injury to another individual or recklessly causes serious injury.
- Penalties: These are classified 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 Saline County, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least serious assault charge and can 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: 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 Saline County, MO: Why Combs Waterkotte is the Defense You Need
Assault charges can be complex, and the Saline 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 Saline County, MO:
Developing a Comprehensive Defense Strategy in Saline 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:
- Scrutinizing the Evidence: Carefully analyzing the prosecution’s evidence for inconsistencies, 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.
- Questioning Witness Testimony: Highlighting any 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.
Working to Reduce Penalties in Saline County, MO
Even if a conviction seems likely, an experienced Saline County, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can work to minimize the penalties you face. This might include:
- Seeking reduced charges or lighter sentencing.
- Advocating for alternatives to jail time, such as probation, community service, or diversion programs.
- Expunging or sealing records where possible to limit the long-term impact of a conviction.
Defending Your Rights in Saline County, MO
Once you are charged in Saline County, MO, your rights could be compromised. A skilled|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Saline County, MO assault defense lawyer will ensure that your constitutional rights are protected throughout every stage of the legal process throughout investigations and court proceedings.
If you are facing an assault charge in or around Saline County, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the ideal assault lawyer in Saline County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our experienced assault defense attorneys, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Saline County and beyond:
- 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: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Saline County, MO
Combs Waterkotte specializes in defending assault charges in Saline County, MO, bringing over three decades of experience and a comprehensive knowledge of criminal law to every case we handle. 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-Centered Approach: We prioritize open communication with our Saline County, MO clients, keeping you informed and involved every step of the way.
- Expertise: Our attorneys have successfully defended hundreds of clients against assault charges in cases just like yours in Saline County, MO.
- Relentless Advocacy: We aren’t afraid to confront the prosecution head-on, safeguarding your rights and pursuing the strongest possible defense.
- Proven Track Record: With over 300 positive reviews and numerous case victories in Saline County, MO and beyond, our history of success is clear, with many clients seeing reduced or dismissed charges.
Reach Out to a Leading Saline County, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you’re dealing with assault charges in or around Saline County, MO, 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 Saline County, MO.
Call us immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
