Assault Lawyer in Savannah, MO. Facing assault charges in Savannah, 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 Savannah, 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 an expert Savannah, MO defense attorney.
Assault Lawyer in Savannah, MO: A Guide to Assault Charges
Assault is traditionally defined as “any deliberate 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 Savannah, MO. Below is a quick overview of some common assault charges our skilled Savannah, MO criminal defense attorneys have handled:
- Simple Assault: Often involving threats of violence or minor physical altercations that don’t result in serious injury. While it might seem less serious, a simple assault conviction can still result in considerable penalties.
- Aggravated Assault: This involves more serious actions, such as assault with a deadly weapon or causing significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is often treated as a felony, leading to much stricter penalties in Savannah, MO.
- Domestic Assault: Charges that involve 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 enhanced charge where the accused allegedly used a weapon during the assault. This can involve firearms, knives, or any object used in a way that could cause serious harm.
If you’re facing these charges or anything similar in or around Savannah, MO, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced Savannah, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
Assault Lawyer Savannah, MO: Types of Assault Charges Explained
In Savannah, MO and across Missouri, assault charges are classified into four degrees, each with its own specific criteria and associated penalties:
First Degree Assault in Savannah, 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 classified as a Class B Felony, with a sentence ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison.
Second Degree Assault in Savannah, 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 severe physical harm to someone else.
- Causes injury while intoxicated and operating a vehicle or boat.
- 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 cases, it’s considered a Class D Felony with potential imprisonment ranging from 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Savannah, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Savannah, MO occurs when someone knowingly causes physical injury to another individual or recklessly causes serious injury.
- 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 Savannah, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and can involve:
- Attempting to cause physical injury or placing someone in apprehension of immediate physical harm.
- Recklessly causing physical injury or offensive physical contact.
- Negligently causing physical injury 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 Savannah, MO: Why You Need Combs Waterkotte Fighting for You
Assault charges can be complex, and the Savannah, 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 Savannah, MO:
Developing a Comprehensive Defense Strategy in Savannah, MO
No two assault cases in Savannah, MO are alike. Your attorney will carefully analyze the specifics of your situation to formulate a personalized defense strategy. This may involve:
- Challenging the Evidence: Investigating the prosecution’s evidence for discrepancies, errors, or violations of your rights.
- Exploring Self-Defense: Proving that your actions were in self-defense or in defense of others. Other potential defenses can include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and being falsely accused.
- Disputing Witness Testimony: Highlighting any biases or inconsistencies in the statements provided by witnesses.
- Negotiating Charges: Engaging to secure alternative sentencing, or to reduce or dismiss the charges where possible.
Working to Reduce Penalties in Savannah, MO
Even if a conviction seems imminent, an experienced Savannah, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can aim to mitigate the penalties you face. This might include:
- Seeking reduced charges or more lenient sentencing.
- Negotiating for probation, community service, diversion programs, or other alternatives to incarceration.
- Expunging or sealing records where possible to limit the long-term impact of a conviction.
Defending Your Rights in Savannah, MO
Once you are charged in Savannah, MO, your rights could be compromised. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Savannah, MO assault defense lawyer ensures that your constitutional rights are protected throughout the legal proceedings in Savannah, MO. This includes:
- Protecting you from self-incrimination and unlawful search and seizure.
- Make sure you {are treated fairly throughout investigations and court proceedings.
- Representing you in court to build the best possible defense in Savannah, MO.
If you are accused of assault in or around Savannah, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the ideal assault lawyer in Savannah, 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 provides expertise in the following areas for Savannah, 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: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Savannah, MO
Combs Waterkotte specializes in defending assault charges in Savannah, MO, bringing over three decades of experience and a comprehensive knowledge of the complexities of criminal law in Savannah, MO. We are fully committed to our clients, working diligently to ensure the best outcomes possible. What sets Combs Waterkotte apart:
- Client-First Philosophy: We maintain clear and consistent communication with our Savannah, MO clients, ensuring you’re informed and engaged throughout the entire process.
- Expertise: Our attorneys have defended hundreds of clients facing assault charges just like yours in Savannah, MO, bringing a wealth of experience to your case.
- Relentless Advocacy: We’re committed to challenging the prosecution and vigorously defending your rights, both inside and outside the courtroom.
- Proven Results: Our 300+ reviews and extensive case history in and around Savannah, MO demonstrate our ability to achieve favorable outcomes, including reduced and dismissed charges.
Reach Out to a Leading Savannah, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you’re confronted with assault charges in or around Savannah, MO, don’t wait to see what happens. Get the legal help you need right away. 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 Savannah, 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 Savannah, MO.
Reach out to us today at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.