Assault Lawyer in Webster Groves, MO. Facing assault charges in Webster Groves, 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 Webster Groves, 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 experienced Webster Groves, MO defense attorney.
Assault Lawyer in Webster Groves, MO: Understanding Assault Charges
Assault is often defined as “any deliberate act that causes another person to fear imminent physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, aggressive gestures, and any attempt to strike another individual. Battery, on the other hand, is defined as “the act of inflicting injury.” In summary, assault is the act of threatening someone with physical harm, while battery is the actual act.
The severity of Webster Groves, MO assault charges can differ significantly based on the details of your case. Below is an overview of some common assault charges our skilled criminal defense attorneys in Webster Groves, MO have handled:
- Simple Assault: Often involving threats of violence or minor physical altercations that don’t result in serious injury. Even though it may seem less severe, a simple assault conviction can still carry significant penalties.
- Aggravated Assault: This encompasses more severe offenses, like assault with a deadly weapon or inflicting substantial bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically classified as a felony, leading to harsher consequences in Webster Groves, MO.
- Domestic Assault: Charges that stem from 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 is alleged to have used a weapon during the assault. This can include firearms, knives, or any object used in a way that could cause serious harm.
Facing these charges or anything similar in or around Webster Groves, MO? You need to speak with an expert Webster Groves, 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 Webster Groves, MO
In Webster Groves, 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 Webster Groves, 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 injury is inflicted, it’s considered a Class A Felony, resulting in 10-30 years or life imprisonment. If no serious injury occurs, it’s classified as a Class B Felony, which ranges from 5 to 15 years in prison.
Second Degree Assault in Webster Groves, 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 severe physical harm to someone else.
- Injures another while driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Physically harms a law enforcement officer or emergency responder.
- 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 instances, it is a Class D Felony with potential imprisonment ranging from 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Webster Groves, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Webster Groves, MO occurs when someone knowingly causes physical injury or recklessly inflicts serious injury on another another individual or recklessly causes serious harm.
- Penalties: This offense is categorized as a Class E Felony, which may lead to up to 4 years in prison, fines, or probation. If the victim is a special victim, it’s escalated to a Class D Felony.
Fourth Degree Assault in Webster Groves, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least serious assault charge and can involve:
- Attempting to cause physical injury or placing someone in apprehension of immediate physical harm.
- Recklessly causing physical harm or making unwanted physical contact.
- Negligently causing physical injury using 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 Webster Groves, MO: Why Combs Waterkotte is the Defense You Need
Facing an assault charge is daunting, and navigating the Webster Groves, 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 Webster Groves, MO:
Developing a Comprehensive Defense Strategy in Webster Groves, 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: Examining the prosecution’s evidence for potential inconsistencies, errors, or any infringement of your rights.
- Arguing Self-Defense: Arguing that your actions were taken in self-defense or in defense of others. Additional strong defenses can include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and false accusation.
- Challenging Witness Testimonies: Highlighting any biases or unreliable aspects in witness statements.
- Negotiating with the Prosecution: Engaging with prosecutors to explore alternative sentencing options, or reduce or dismiss charges.
Working to Reduce Penalties in Webster Groves, MO
Even if a conviction appears unavoidable, an experienced Webster Groves, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can focus on reducing the consequences you face. This could involve:
- Seeking reduced charges or more lenient sentencing.
- 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.
Safeguarding Your Rights in Webster Groves, MO
Once you are charged in Webster Groves, MO, your rights are at risk. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Webster Groves, MO assault defense attorney is committed to ensuring that your constitutional rights are protected throughout every stage of the legal process during investigations and court proceedings.
If you are facing an assault charge in or around Webster Groves, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the best assault lawyer in Webster Groves, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our experienced assault defense attorneys, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for Webster Groves, MO residents:
Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Webster Groves, MO
At Combs Waterkotte, we specialize in defending assault charges in Webster Groves, MO, leveraging over 30 years of combined experience and a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of criminal law in Webster Groves, MO. Our dedication to our clients is unmatched, and we strive to secure the best possible outcomes. What sets Combs Waterkotte apart:
- Client-Centered Approach: We emphasize transparent communication, keeping you informed and involved in every step of your defense.
- Expertise: Our attorneys have a proven track record, successfully defending hundreds of clients in assault cases similar to yours in Webster Groves, MO.
- Relentless Advocacy: We are not afraid to challenge the prosecution and fight for your rights in and out of the courtroom.
- Proven Track Record: Our more than 300 reviews and track record throughout Webster Groves, MO speak volumes, with numerous cases resulting in reduced charges and dismissed charges.
Reach Out to a Leading Webster Groves, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you’re confronted with assault charges in Webster Groves, 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 Webster Groves, 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 Webster Groves, MO.
Reach out to us immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
