Domestic violence defense attorneys in Kennett, MO. Have you been arrested for or charged with domestic violence in the Kennett, MO area? These are grave charges that can have substantial consequences, potentially resulting in the loss of employment, custody of your children, or even your including the possibility of losing your job, losing custody of your children, or even your VA benefits if you have served your country.
If you are confronting domestic violence charges anywhere in or around Kennett, MO, it’s imperative to take swift action to protect your freedom, reputation, and future. Call the Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a free, no-strings-attached consultation where you can discuss the specifics of your case one-on-one with an experienced attorney.
Combs Waterkotte is an award-winning criminal defense law firm, home to compassionate and tenacious defense lawyers who have vigorously advocated for the innocence of clients throughout the Kennett, MO area for over 40 years. Our unparalleled track record and over 250 reviews stand as testament to our unwavering commitment to our clients’ rights and freedoms.
Legal Videos

What to Do When Accused of Domestic Violence in Missouri
This legal video covers a commonly asked question regarding "What Should I Do When Accused of Domestic Violence?" and how Combs Waterkotte can help you with your domestic violence charge in the …

What Happens During a Domestic Violence Investigation?
This legal video covers a commonly asked question regarding "What Happens During a Domestic Violence Investigation in Missouri?" and how Combs Waterkotte can help you with your domestic violence …

What Are My Rights if Accused of Domestic Violence?
This domestic violence legal video covers a commonly asked question regarding "How Can I Get Domestic Violence Charges Dropped?" and how Combs Waterkotte can help you with your domestic violence …

Does Emotional Abuse Count as Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence cases can significantly influence various aspects of family law, especially child custody arrangements. When such charges arise, they often lead to complex legal challenges and …

How Can I Get Domestic Violence Charges Dropped?
Domestic violence cases can significantly influence various aspects of family law, especially child custody arrangements. When such charges arise, they often lead to complex legal challenges and …

Can a Domestic Violence Charge Affect Child Custody?
Domestic violence cases can significantly influence various aspects of family law, especially child custody arrangements. When such charges arise, they often lead to complex legal challenges and …
What You Should Do If Accused of Domestic Violence in Kennett, MO
Should you find yourself accused of or arrested for domestic violence anywhere near Kennett, MO, it’s essential to take immediate steps to safeguard your rights and navigate the legal process effectively. Here’s what you should do:
- Stay Calm: Confronting allegations of domestic violence in Kennett, MO can be daunting and emotional. It’s crucial to remain calm and composed to avoid escalating the situation any further.
- Consult With the Combs Waterkotte Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys: Waste no time in reaching out to the experienced domestic violence defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte. Our skilled attorneys will provide you with legal guidance, protect your rights, future, and reputation, and advocate on your behalf throughout the Kennett, MO legal process.
- Assert and Maintain Your Innocence: Refrain from making any statements to Kennett, MO law enforcement or admissions of guilt without first consulting your domestic violence defense attorneys. This is essential to avoid self-incrimination and to protect your legal rights.
- Stay Informed: Stay in-the-know about the progress of your case and any developments in the legal proceedings. Your Kennett, MO domestic violence defense attorneys will obviously keep you in the loop, but be sure to keep all lines of communication open so as to not miss anything important. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you have any uncertainties or concerns.

Situations When You Require Assistance From Domestic Violence Attorneys in Kennett, MO
Domestic violence encompasses a range of what are considered abusive behaviors by one family or household member against another. In the Kennett, MO area, instances of domestic violence may involve:
- Physical Violence: Considered any intentional physical harm or injury inflicted upon a family or household member. This includes actions such as hitting, kicking, hitting, strangling, or weapon use.
- Emotional Abuse: Psychological manipulation, insults, degradation, verbal threats, intimidation, isolation, or exerting control that undermines the victim’s self-worth and autonomy.
- Sexual Assault: Nonconsensual sexual contact or activity, including rape, coerced sexual acts, and sexual harassment within an intimate relationship.
- Stalking: Persistent, unwelcome surveillance, pursuit, monitoring, or harassment leading to fear, distress, or psychological anguish.
- Economic Control: Controlling or withholding financial resources, withholding access to funds or assets, sabotaging employment opportunities, or exploiting economic dependence to assert dominance.
- Child Abuse: Any form of maltreatment, abuse, neglect, harm, or abandonment inflicted upon a child by you as a parent, guardian, or caregiver within the family or household.
Dunklin County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Dunklin County and Missouri.
What are the Possible Penalties For Domestic Violence in the Kennett, MO Area?
The repercussions of domestic violence in and around Kennett, MO can vary significantly based on factors like the severity of the offense, the surrounding circumstances, and any relevant criminal history. Convictions for domestic violence could entail both criminal and civil penalties, including:
- Probation
- Protective Orders
- Pain and Suffering
- Medical Expenses
- Counseling/Treatment Programs
- Incarceration
.
Missouri law breaks domestic assault charges into the following four degrees:
- First Degree Domestic Assault: Under Missouri Revised Statute § 565.072, first degree domestic violence encompasses attempts to cause or knowingly inflict serious physical injury. This offense is classified as a class B felony, unless you inflict serious injury on the individual, in which case it is a class A felony. A class B felony carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, while the class A felony maximum is life in prison.
- Second Degree Domestic Assault: This tier of domestic assault includes any attempt to inflict serious injury knowingly, utilizing a deadly weapon, dangerous instrument, or via strangulation. Second degree domestic assault is categorized as a class C felony, carrying a maximum sentence of 7 years imprisonment.
- Third Degree Domestic Assault: As outlined in RSMo § 565.074, third degree domestic assault involves causing physical injury, knowingly inflicting physical pain or illness upon a household or domestic member, or negligently endangering or isolating them. This offense constitutes a class E felony, carrying a maximum sentence of 4 years in prison.
- Fourth Degree Domestic Assault: Under RSMo § 565.076, this degree of assault encompasses any attempt to cause or negligently cause physical injury, pain, or illness to any member of your household or family. Fourth degree domestic assault is a class A misdemeanor, which carries a maximum sentence of 1 year imprisonment. However, if there is a prior domestic assault conviction, it elevates to a class E felony.
It’s important to remember that the specifics of each case can vary substantially. Call the Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys in Kennett, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.

Why is it Critical to Hire a Skilled Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Kennett, MO?
The Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys have a wealth of knowledge and experience in navigating the Kennett, MO legal process. Engaging such experienced legal representation is pivotal for securing the most favorable outcome in your case. After retaining their services, you gain access to the following advantages:
- Legal Expertise: Domestic violence cases in Kennett, MO can entail a myriad of complexities involving intricate statutes, rules of evidence, and court procedures. Opting to navigate this path solo is not suggested. A skilled Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense lawyer has a deep understanding of the local Kennett, MO and state domestic violence laws and the criminal justice system.
- Strategic Defense: A knowledgeable defense attorney will develop a strategic defense tailored to the specifics of your case. The Combs Waterkotte legal team will conduct a thorough investigation, gather evidence, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. This may involve challenging witness credibility, contesting evidence, or negotiating for reduced charges or penalties.
- Protection of Your Rights: An adept and knowledgeable Kennett, MO domestic violence defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte makes sure that your constitutional rights are safeguarded throughout your legal process. This includes your right to a fair and speedy trial, the right to remain silent, and the right to question witnesses against you. Your lawyer will work to prevent any violations of your rights by law enforcement or prosecutors near Kennett, MO.
- Knowledge of Local Kennett, MO Court Procedures: A defense attorney familiar with the Kennett, MO court system has invaluable insights into local judges, prosecutors, and basic, day-to-day courtroom procedures. This knowledge can be instrumental in constructing an effective defense strategy and achieving a favorable outcome.
- Minimizing Consequences: A proficient attorney will advocate on your behalf to minimize the potential consequences of domestic violence charges in Kennett, MO. This may involve pursuing alternative sentencing options, like diversion programs or probation, rather than incarceration. Your Combs Waterkotte lawyer prioritizes your best interests and strives to attain the most favorable outcome given the unique circumstances of your case. Give our domestic violence defense attorneys a call now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Combs Waterkotte is a leading criminal defense law firm based in St. Louis. Along with expert legal representation from our skilled Kennett, MO domestic violence defense attorneys, we provide help in the following practice areas for clients in Kennett and anywhere in Missouri:

Connect With the Top Kennett, MO Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys at Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing domestic violence allegations in or around Kennett, MO, it’s imperative to seek counsel from a a qualified attorney who can provide guidance and representation tailored to your specific situation. Your freedom and reputation are on the line, underscoring the importance of retaining legal experts who are as committed to your case as you are. You deserve a legal team that embodies a perfect blend of empathy, tenacity, and expertise.
Contact the Kennett, MO domestic violence defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.

