Assault Lawyer in Bridgeton, MO. Being charged with assault in Bridgeton, 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 Bridgeton, MO, an assault conviction is no joke.
If you’re facing assault charges anywhere in the Bridgeton, MO area or across Missouri, having an experienced assault and battery lawyer by your side can be the difference between staring down those significant penalties and freedom.
Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation where you can discuss the specifics of your case with a knowledgeable Bridgeton, 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 in Bridgeton, MO: A Guide to Assault Charges
Assault is traditionally defined as “any intentional act that causes another individual to fear physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, threatening gestures, and any attempt to strike another individual. Battery, on the other hand, is defined as “the act of causing physical injury.” In summary, assault is the act of threatening someone with physical harm, while battery involves the actual physical act.
The severity of Bridgeton, MO assault charges can differ significantly based on the details of your case. Below is a quick overview of some common assault charges our knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys in Bridgeton, MO 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 simple assault conviction can still result in considerable penalties.
- Aggravated Assault: This encompasses more severe actions, like assault with a deadly weapon or causing significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically classified as a felony, leading to much stricter penalties in Bridgeton, 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 are often more complex due to the personal relationships involved.
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon: A more severe charge where the accused is alleged to have used a weapon during the assault. This can involve firearms, knives, or any object used in a way that could cause serious injury.
If you’re facing these charges or anything similar in or around Bridgeton, MO, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced Bridgeton, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Call us 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 Bridgeton, MO: Types of Assault Charges
In Bridgeton, MO and throughout Missouri, assault charges are divided into four degrees. Each degree is based on specific actions and carries its own set of penalties:
First Degree Assault in Bridgeton, 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 serious injury is inflicted, it’s considered a Class A Felony, resulting in 10-30 years or life imprisonment. Without serious injury, it’s classified as a Class B Felony, which ranges from 5 to 15 years in prison.
Second Degree Assault in Bridgeton, 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.
- Attempts to cause or knowingly causes physical injury to another individual by means of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument.
- Recklessly inflicts serious injury on another individual.
- Injures another while driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Injures 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 cases, it’s considered a Class D Felony with potential imprisonment ranging from 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Bridgeton, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Bridgeton, MO occurs when an individual 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, with consequences including up to 4 years in prison, fines, or probation. If the victim is a special victim, it’s elevated to a Class D Felony.
Fourth Degree Assault in Bridgeton, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and can include:
- Attempting to cause physical harm or placing someone in fear of immediate physical harm.
- Recklessly causing physical harm or offensive 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 Bridgeton, MO: Why Combs Waterkotte is the Defense You Need
Assault charges can be complex, and the Bridgeton, MO legal system is daunting. You need an experienced assault defense lawyer on your side, one who provides the expertise needed to navigate this challenging process. Here’s how Combs Waterkotte can help you in Bridgeton, MO:
Crafting a Robust Defense Strategy in Bridgeton, MO
Each Bridgeton, 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:
- Evaluating the Evidence: Examining the prosecution’s evidence for potential inconsistencies, errors, or breaches of your rights.
- Exploring Self-Defense: Proving that your actions were in self-defense or in defense of another person. Other potential defenses can include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and false accusation.
- Disputing Witness Testimony: Identifying potential biases or inconsistencies in the statements provided by witnesses.
- Negotiating with the Prosecution: Engaging to secure alternative sentencing, or to reduce or dismiss the charges where possible.
Working to Reduce Penalties in Bridgeton, MO
Even if a conviction appears unavoidable, a dedicated Bridgeton, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can focus on reducing the consequences you face. This might include:
- Negotiating for reduced charges or lighter sentencing.
- Negotiating for probation, community service, diversion, or other alternatives to incarceration.
- Attempting to expunge or seal your records when possible, minimizing the long-term repercussions of a conviction.
Protecting Your Rights in Bridgeton, MO
Once you are charged in Bridgeton, MO, your rights are at risk. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Bridgeton, MO assault defense lawyer is committed to ensuring that your constitutional rights are preserved throughout the legal proceedings in Bridgeton, MO. This includes:
- Defending you against self-incrimination and unlawful search and seizure.
- Make sure you {are treated fairly during investigations and court proceedings.
- Representing you in court to provide the strongest possible defense in Bridgeton, MO.
When you are facing an assault charge in or around Bridgeton, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the leading assault lawyer in Bridgeton, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our experienced assault defense attorneys, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Bridgeton and beyond:
- Weapon Crime Defense Lawyer
- DWI Lawyer With Payment Plans
- Criminal Defense Lawyer with Payment Plans
Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Bridgeton, MO
Combs Waterkotte is your trusted partner for assault defense in Bridgeton, MO, leveraging over 30 years of combined experience and a deep understanding 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. Here’s why Combs Waterkotte is the right choice:
- Client-Focused: We emphasize transparent communication, keeping you informed and involved in every step of your defense.
- Expertise: Our attorneys have defended hundreds of clients facing assault charges just like yours in Bridgeton, MO, bringing a wealth of experience to your case.
- Relentless Advocacy: We’re committed to challenging the prosecution and vigorously defending your rights, both inside and outside the courtroom.
- Proven Track Record: Our 350+ reviews and extensive case history in and around Bridgeton, MO demonstrate our ability to achieve favorable outcomes, including reduced and dismissed charges.
Contact the Top Bridgeton, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Right Now
If you’re dealing with assault charges in or around Bridgeton, MO, it’s crucial to act swiftly. 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 Bridgeton, 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 Bridgeton, MO.
Reach out to us today at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.
