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Assault Lawyer Springfield, MO

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Last Updated: September 4, 2024

Assault Lawyer in Springfield, MO. Being charged with assault in Springfield, 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 Springfield, MO, an assault conviction is no joke.

If you are facing an assault charge in Springfield, 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.
Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation to go over the specifics of your case with an experienced Springfield, MO defense attorney.

Assault Lawyer in Springfield, MO: A Guide to Assault Charges

Assault is often defined as “any intentional act that causes another individual to fear imminent physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, aggressive gestures, and any attempt to cause physical harm. On the other hand, battery is defined as “the act of causing physical harm.” In essence, assault involves the threat of harm, while battery involves the actual physical act.

Assault charges can vary widely in severity depending on the circumstances of your case in Springfield, MO. Here’s a brief overview of some common assault charges our skilled Springfield, MO criminal defense attorneys frequently deal with:

  • Simple Assault: This typically involves threats of violence or minor physical contact that doesn’t result in serious injury. While it might seem less serious, a conviction for simple assault can still result in considerable penalties.
  • Aggravated Assault: This involves more severe actions, like using a deadly weapon or causing significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically considered a felony, leading to harsher consequences in Springfield, MO.
  • Domestic Assault: Charges related to 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 close personal relationships involved.
  • Assault with a Deadly Weapon: A more severe charge where the accused allegedly used a weapon during the assault. This could include firearms, knives, or any object used in a manner that could cause serious harm.

Are you facing these or similar charges in the Springfield, MO area? It’s important to speak with a skilled Springfield, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Contact us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.

Assault Lawyer Springfield, MO | Criminal Defense Attorneys Near Springfield, MO | Combs Waterkotte

Assault Lawyer: Types of Assault Charges in Springfield, MO

In Springfield, MO and across Missouri, assault charges are categorized into four degrees, each with its own specific criteria and associated penalties:

First Degree Assault in Springfield, 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. Without serious injury, it’s classified as a Class B Felony, with a sentence ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison.

Second Degree Assault in Springfield, MO

  • Criteria: The charge of second-degree assault applies when someone:
    • Attempts to kill or causes serious physical injury under the influence of sudden passion provoked by adequate cause.
    • Uses a deadly weapon or dangerous object to inflict or attempt to inflict injury.
    • Recklessly causes severe physical harm to someone else.
    • Injures another while driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
    • Harms a law enforcement officer or emergency worker.
  • Penalties: If the assault involves a law enforcement officer, it’s a Class B Felony and can result in 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 Springfield, MO

  • Criteria: Third-degree assault in Springfield, MO occurs when someone knowingly causes physical injury or recklessly inflicts serious injury on another another individual or recklessly causes serious harm.
  • Penalties: This charge is typically 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 Springfield, MO

  • Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and can include:

    • Attempting to cause physical injury or placing someone in apprehension of immediate physical injury.
    • Recklessly causing physical harm or offensive physical contact.
    • Negligently causing physical injury using a deadly weapon.
  • Penalties: This charge is generally a Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $2,000. However, if a special victim is involved, it escalates to a Class E Felony, carrying up to 4 years in prison.

Assault Lawyer Springfield, MO: Why Combs Waterkotte is the Defense You Need

An assault charge is serious, and the legal landscape in Springfield, MO can be intimidating. It’s essential to have an expert assault defense lawyer by your side to guide you through this complex process. Here’s exactly how Combs Waterkotte can support you in Springfield, MO:

Building a Strong Defense Strategy in Springfield, MO

Each Springfield, MO assault case comes with its own set of complexities. Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation into your case to develop a tailored assault defense strategy that might include:

  • Challenging the Evidence: Carefully analyzing the prosecution’s evidence for potential inconsistencies, mistakes, or violations of your rights.
  • Arguing Self-Defense: Demonstrating that you were acting in self-defense or in defense of others. Other potential defenses can include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and false accusation.
  • Challenging Witness Testimonies: Highlighting any biases or inconsistencies in the statements provided by witnesses.
  • Negotiating with the Prosecution: Working with prosecutors to explore alternative sentences, or work toward reducing or dismissing charges altogether.

Working to Reduce Penalties in Springfield, MO

Even if a conviction seems likely, a dedicated Springfield, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can focus on reducing the consequences you might face. Strategies might involve:

  • Negotiating for reduced charges or more lenient 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 Springfield, MO

From the moment charges are filed in Springfield, MO, your rights could be compromised. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Springfield, MO assault defense attorney will ensure that your constitutional rights are upheld throughout receive fair treatment throughout investigations and court proceedings.

  • Advocating for you in court to build the best possible defense in Springfield, MO.
  • When you are facing an assault charge in or around Springfield, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the leading assault lawyer in Springfield, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our experienced assault defense lawyers, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Springfield and beyond:

    Assault Lawyer Springfield, MO | Criminal Defense Law Firm Near Springfield, MO | Combs Waterkotte

    Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Springfield, MO

    Combs Waterkotte specializes in defending assault charges in Springfield, MO, leveraging over three decades of experience and a comprehensive understanding of criminal law to deliver exceptional results. Our dedication to our clients is unmatched, and we strive to secure the best possible outcomes. Here’s what makes Combs Waterkotte stand out:

    • Client-Focused: We maintain clear and consistent communication with our Springfield, MO clients, ensuring you’re informed and engaged throughout the entire process.
    • Expertise: Our attorneys have a proven track record, successfully defending hundreds of clients in assault cases similar to yours in Springfield, MO.
    • Relentless Advocacy: We aren’t afraid to confront the prosecution head-on, safeguarding your rights and pursuing the strongest possible defense.
    • Proven Results: Our 350+ reviews and extensive case history in and around Springfield, MO demonstrate our ability to achieve favorable outcomes, including reduced and dismissed charges.

    Reach Out to a Leading Springfield, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today

    If you’re confronted with assault charges in the Springfield, MO area, 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 Springfield, MO.

    Reach out to us today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.

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