Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

Domestic violence defense lawyer in Kansas City, Missouri. Have you been accused of domestic violence in Kansas City or the surrounding areas? Domestic violence allegations are serious—and even an accusation can damage your career, relationships, and reputation. You could face losing custody of your children, your job, or even critical veteran benefits.

Don’t wait to protect yourself. Call the trusted Kansas City domestic violence defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation. We will immediately begin building a personalized defense strategy to protect your freedom and future.

With more than 50 years of combined legal experience and over 350 five-star reviews, Combs Waterkotte is Kansas City’s go-to criminal defense team for individuals facing domestic violence charges. We know how to fight—and win.

Article Summary

Facing domestic violence charges in Kansas City? The stakes couldn’t be higher. At Combs Waterkotte, our experienced Kansas City domestic violence defense lawyers fight to protect what matters most. We build aggressive, personalized defense strategies designed to reduce or eliminate charges.

In this article, you’ll learn:

• What immediate steps to take after being accused of domestic violence in Kansas City.
• What behaviors are defined as domestic violence under Missouri.
• The degrees of domestic violence charges and their potential penalties.
• Why hiring a skilled domestic violence lawyer is crucial to your defense.
• How Combs Waterkotte builds powerful cases to protect your rights and freedom.

Steps to Take if You’re Accused of Domestic Violence in Kansas City

If you are accused of domestic violence in Kansas City, take action quickly and wisely. Waiting is not a wise option. Here’s what to do:

• Step 1 — Stay Calm: Avoid making any emotional statements or confrontations that could be used against you later. Staying composed is key.
• Step 2 — Contact Combs Waterkotte Immediately: An experienced domestic violence defense lawyer in Kansas City will protect your rights from the start and develop the strongest possible defense.
• Step 3 — Do Not Speak to Law Enforcement Without a Lawyer: Politely assert your right to remain silent until your attorney is present. Anything you say can and will be used against you.
• Step 4 — Stay Informed: Stay engaged and proactive throughout your case. A Combs Waterkotte Kansas City domestic violence defense lawyer will keep you updated every step of the way and is always available to answer your questions.

What Constitutes Domestic Violence in Kansas City?

In Missouri, domestic violence includes a wide range of alleged behaviors between family or household members, as defined by Missouri law:

• Stalking: Persistent unwanted surveillance, following, or harassment that instills fear.
• Physical Abuse: Inflicting physical harm through hitting, pushing, kicking, or using a weapon.
• Emotional Abuse: Threats, intimidation, verbal abuse, isolation, or manipulative behavior that causes emotional distress.
• Sexual Assault: Non-consensual sexual contact, rape, or sexual coercion within a relationship.
• Financial Abuse: Controlling finances or sabotaging employment to exert power and control.
• Child Abuse: Physical, emotional, or financial abuse directed at children within the household.

Potential Penalties for Domestic Violence in Kansas City

Domestic violence charges in Kansas City carry severe criminal penalties, depending on the level of the alleged offense. You could face:

• First-Degree Domestic Assault: Attempting to kill or causing serious physical injury—charged as a Class A or Class B felony punishable by up to life in prison.
• Second-Degree Domestic Assault: Causing serious injury with a deadly weapon or through strangulation—a Class C felony punishable by up to 7 years in prison.
• Third-Degree Domestic Assault: Causing physical pain or illness—a Class E Felony with up to 4 years imprisonment.
• Fourth-Degree Domestic Assault: Minor injuries or negligent harm—typically a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail.

Convictions can also trigger protective orders, loss of firearm rights, difficulty gaining employment, and permanent damage to your reputation. You need a skilled defense attorney now to protect everything you’ve built in the Kansas City area.

Why You Need a Skilled Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer in Kansas City

Domestic violence charges can turn your life upside down. The right attorney can help you turn it back around. Here’s why hiring a Combs Waterkotte Kansas City domestic violence defense lawyer makes all the difference:

• Local Knowledge — Our attorneys understand Kansas City courts, prosecutors, and procedures, giving you an inside edge.
• Strategic Defense — We tailor a criminal defense plan to your situation, whether it’s self-defense, false allegations, or lack of evidence.
• Rights Protection — From your right to remain silent to the right to a fair trial, we ensure your constitutional rights are respected at every step of your case.
• Negotiation Strength — If negotiation is the best route for you to get the best possible outcome, we work to reduce or dismiss charges or minimize penalties through plea deals or diversion programs.
• Aggressive Trial Advocacy — If needed, we’re ready to take your case to trial and fight relentlessly for a not guilty verdict.

When your future is on the line, you need a battle-tested legal team on your side. The most common—and expensive—mistake we see is individuals who hire lawyers based on advertisements and low costs. Call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to discuss the specifics of your case with a skilled Kansas City domestic violence defense lawyer.

When Does a “Fight” Become Domestic Violence in Kansas City?

No matter if it’s a verbal disagreement or a physical altercation, there’s a fine line between what is deemed a fight or an assault allegation. Any violence against a domestic victim is considered domestic assault in Missouri. Domestic victims are:

• Current or former spouse
• Family member by blood or marriage
• Individual with whom you have a child
• Individual with whom you live or previously lived
• Individual with whom you have or had a dating or romantic relationship

Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer in Kansas City: Common FAQs

The Combs Waterkotte domestic violence legal defense team in Kansas City put together a list of common questions asked by clients to help you better understand the charges you’re facing:

Do Courts Always Believe the Alleged Victim in Kansas City Domestic Violence Cases?

No, Kansas City courts do not always believe the alleged victim. In fact, the outcome of your case depends on the evidence presented and, ultimately, the expertise of your domestic violence criminal defense lawyer.

What is the Missouri Domestic Violence 12 Hour Rule?

The Missouri 12-hour rule in domestic violence was put in place to protect alleged victims of repeated assault. It states that a law enforcement officer must make an arrest if they’ve been called to the same address twice within a 12-hour period.

Do I Have to Be Arrested in Kansas City for a Domestic Violence Charge?

Unlike many other states, Missouri does not have a mandatory arrest law regarding domestic violence. However, whether or not you are arrested, being charged with domestic violence can have serious consequences. Combs Waterkotte is here.

Can a Domestic Violence Conviction be Expunged in Missouri?

A domestic violence conviction in Missouri can potentially be expunged, however several important factors must be considered, including the type of charge and the time elapsed.

If the Victim Stops Cooperating, Will My Domestic Violence Case in Missouri Be Dismissed?

If the victim in a domestic violence case doesn’t show up to court in Missouri, this does not automatically mean that your case will be dismissed. In fact, while the victim’s testimony is often vital in these types of cases, Missouri Revised Statutes § 595.209 allows the prosecution to move forward without the victim’s cooperation or presence if there is other evidence that is sufficient to support the charge.

What Are the Implications of a Domestic Violence Charge on Child Custody and Visitation in Kansas City?

A domestic violence charge can significantly impact child custody and visitation decisions. Family courts prioritize the child’s safety and well-being, so any history of domestic violence is taken seriously. If you are facing these charges, you need the help of an experienced domestic violence defense lawyer right now.

Contact a Kansas City Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer Today

Your freedom, your reputation, and your family’s future are too important to leave to chance. If you are facing domestic violence charges in Kansas City, turn to the proven defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte.

Get a team that fights for you like your life depends on it—because it does. Call (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a free case review with an expert domestic violence defense lawyer in Kansas City today.