Assault Lawyer in Jennings, MO. Being charged with assault in Jennings, 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 Jennings, MO, an assault conviction is no joke.
If you’re charged with assault in Jennings, MO or elsewhere in Missouri, having a skilled assault and battery lawyer on your side could make all the difference between jail and freedom.
Call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation to go over the specifics of your case with an experienced Jennings, MO defense attorney.
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See what Chris has to say about Combs Waterkotte Law Firm after Combs Waterkotte helped him with his felony charge, and restored him to his everyday life. Criminal Defense Lawyers in Missouri.
Chris – Client Testimonial
See what Chris has to say about Combs Waterkotte Law Firm after Combs Waterkotte helped him with his felony charge, and restored him to his everyday life. Criminal Defense Lawyers in Missouri.
Assault Lawyer: Understanding Jennings, MO Assault Charges
Assault is generally defined as “any deliberate act that causes another person to fear imminent physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, threatening gestures, and any attempt to strike another person. 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.
The severity of Jennings, MO assault charges can differ significantly based on the details of your case. Below is an overview of some common assault charges our experienced Jennings, 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. While it might seem less serious, a simple assault conviction can still carry significant penalties.
- Aggravated Assault: This encompasses more severe actions, such as using a deadly weapon or causing substantial bodily harm. Aggravated assault is often treated as a felony, leading to more severe penalties in Jennings, 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 can be more complicated 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 involve firearms, knives, or any object used in a manner that could cause serious harm.
Facing these charges or anything similar in or around Jennings, MO? You need to speak with an expert Jennings, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Give us a call now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
St. Louis County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in St. Louis County and Missouri.
Assault Lawyer: Types of Assault Charges in Jennings, MO
In Jennings, MO and throughout Missouri, assault charges are classified into four degrees, each with its own specific criteria and associated penalties:
First Degree Assault in Jennings, 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 a serious physical injury occurs, it’s categorized as a Class A Felony which leads to 10-30 years or life imprisonment. If no serious injury occurs, it’s classified as a Class B Felony, with a sentence ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison.
Second Degree Assault in Jennings, MO
- Criteria: The charge of second-degree assault is applicable 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.
- 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 assault cases, they’re a Class D Felony and imprisonment ranges from 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Jennings, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Jennings, MO occurs when an individual knowingly causes physical injury to 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 Jennings, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least serious assault charge and may include:
- Attempting to cause physical harm or placing someone in apprehension of immediate physical harm.
- Recklessly causing physical harm or offensive contact.
- Negligently causing physical harm 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: Why You Need Combs Waterkotte on Your Side in Jennings, MO
An assault charge is serious, and the legal landscape in Jennings, 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 Jennings, MO:
Developing a Comprehensive Defense Strategy in Jennings, MO
Each Jennings, 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:
- Scrutinizing the Evidence: Examining the prosecution’s evidence for potential inconsistencies, mistakes, or breaches of your rights.
- Exploring Self-Defense: Demonstrating that you were acting in self-defense or in defense of others. Other strong defenses might include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and being falsely accused.
- Disputing Witness Testimony: Identifying biases or unreliable aspects in witness statements.
- Negotiating Charges: Engaging with prosecutors to seek alternative sentencing options, or reduce or dismiss charges.
Working to Reduce Penalties in Jennings, MO
Even if a conviction seems likely, a dedicated Jennings, MO Combs Waterkotte defense lawyer can aim to mitigate the penalties you face. Strategies could include:
- Negotiating for reduced charges or more lenient sentences.
- Negotiating for probation, community service, diversion, or other alternatives to prison time.
- Attempting to expunge or seal your records when possible, minimizing the long-term repercussions of a conviction.
Safeguarding Your Rights in Jennings, MO
From the moment you’re charged in Jennings, MO, your rights are in jeopardy. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Jennings, MO assault defense lawyer ensures that your constitutional rights are protected throughout the legal process in Jennings, MO. This includes:
- Shielding you from self-incrimination and unlawful search and seizure.
- Ensuring you {are treated fairly throughout investigations and court proceedings.
- Providing robust courtroom representation to secure the best defense on your behalf in Jennings, MO.
When you are accused of assault in or around Jennings, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the leading assault lawyer in Jennings, MO and throughout Missouri – you are 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 Jennings, MO residents:
Assault Lawyer Jennings, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte
At Combs Waterkotte, we specialize in defending assault charges in Jennings, MO, bringing over three decades of experience and a deep knowledge 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 why Combs Waterkotte is the right choice:
- Client-First Philosophy: We emphasize transparent communication, keeping you informed and involved in every step of your defense.
- Expertise: Our legal team has a proven track record, successfully defending hundreds of clients in assault cases similar to yours in Jennings, MO.
- Relentless Advocacy: We’re committed to challenging the prosecution and vigorously defending your rights, both inside and outside the courtroom.
- Proven Results: Our more than 400 reviews and track record throughout Jennings, MO speak volumes, with numerous cases resulting in reduced charges and dismissed charges.
Reach Out to a Leading Jennings, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you’re confronted with assault charges in or around Jennings, MO, don’t delay in seeking the legal representation you need. 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 Jennings, 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 Jennings, MO.
Call us as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.
