Assault Lawyer University City, MO

Assault Lawyer in University City, MO. Facing an assault charge in University City, MO is a critical situation that can lead to life-changing consequences. A conviction could mean harsh penalties, including prison time, substantial fines, and a lasting criminal record, as well as the University City, MO societal stigma that accompanies it.

If you are facing an assault charge in University City, 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 University City, MO defense attorney.

Assault Lawyer: Understanding University City, MO Assault Charges

Assault is often defined as “any intentional act that causes another person 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 inflicting injury.” In short, assault is the threat of harm, while battery involves the actual physical act.

Assault charges in University City, MO can range in severity depending on the specifics of your situation. Below is a quick overview of some common assault charges our knowledgeable University City, MO criminal defense attorneys frequently deal with:

• 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 serious offenses, like assault with a deadly weapon or inflicting substantial bodily harm. Aggravated assault is often treated as a felony, leading to more severe penalties in University City, 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 enhanced 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 manner that could cause serious injury.

If you’re facing these charges or anything similar in or around University City, MO, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced University City, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.

Assault Lawyer: Types of Assault Charges in University City, MO

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

First Degree Assault in University City, MO

• Criteria: First-degree assault involves intentionally attempting to kill someone or knowingly causing or attempting to cause serious physical injury to another individual.
• Penalties: If a serious physical injury occurs, it’s categorized as a Class A Felony which leads to 10-30 years or life imprisonment. Without serious injury, it’s a Class B Felony, with a sentence ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison.

Second Degree Assault in University City, 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 serious physical injury to another individual.
  • Injures another while driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Physically 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 instances, it is a Class D Felony with potential imprisonment ranging from 1 to 7 years.

Third Degree Assault in University City, MO

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

• Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least serious assault charge and may include:
  • Attempting to cause physical harm or placing someone in fear of immediate physical injury.
  • Recklessly causing physical harm or making unwanted physical contact.
  • Negligently causing physical injury with 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 University City, MO: Why You Need Combs Waterkotte Fighting for You

An assault charge is serious, and the legal landscape in University City, 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 University City, MO:

Developing a Comprehensive Defense Strategy in University City, MO

No two assault cases in University City, 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: Carefully analyzing the prosecution’s evidence for potential inconsistencies, errors, or violations of your rights.
• Proving Self-Defense: Proving that your actions were in self-defense or in defense of others. Additional strong defenses can include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and false accusation.
• Questioning Witness Testimony: Highlighting any potential biases or unreliable aspects in witness statements.
• Negotiating Charges: Working to secure alternative sentencing, or to reduce or dismiss the charges where possible.

Working to Reduce Penalties in University City, MO

Even if a conviction seems imminent, an experienced University City, MO Combs Waterkotte defense lawyer can work to minimize the consequences you might face. Strategies could include:

• Negotiating for reduced charges or more lenient sentences.
• Advocating for probation, community service, diversion, or other alternatives to incarceration.
• Expunging or sealing records where possible to limit the long-term impact of a conviction.

Protecting Your Rights in University City, MO

From the moment charges are filed in University City, MO, your rights are in jeopardy. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte University City, MO assault defense attorney will ensure that your constitutional rights are preserved throughout the legal process in University City, MO. This involves:

• Protecting you from self-incrimination or unlawful search and seizure.
• Ensuring you {are treated fairly throughout investigations and court proceedings.
• Advocating for you in court to build the best possible defense in University City, MO.

When you’re facing an assault charge in or around University City, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the best assault lawyer in University City, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our knowledgeable assault defense attorneys, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for University City, MO residents:

Assault Lawyer University City, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte

Combs Waterkotte specializes in defending assault charges in University City, MO, leveraging over 30 years of combined experience and a comprehensive knowledge of criminal law to deliver exceptional results. Our commitment to our clients is unwavering, and we work tirelessly to make sure you receive the best possible outcome. What sets Combs Waterkotte apart:

• Client-Focused: We prioritize open communication with our University City, MO clients, keeping you informed and involved every step of the way.
• Expertise: Our legal team has successfully defended hundreds of clients against assault charges in cases just like yours in University City, MO.
• Tenacious Defense: We aren’t afraid to confront the prosecution head-on, safeguarding your rights and pursuing the strongest possible defense.
• Demonstrated Success: Our 350+ reviews and extensive case history in and around University City, MO demonstrate our ability to achieve favorable outcomes, including reduced and dismissed charges.

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

If you’re facing assault charges in or around University City, MO, 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 University City, MO.

Reach out to us today at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.