Assault Lawyer in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO. Being charged with assault in Bellefontaine Neighbors, 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 Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO, an assault conviction is no joke.
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.
If you’re charged with assault in Bellefontaine Neighbors, 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 where you can discuss the specifics of your case with an experienced Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO defense attorney.
Assault Lawyer in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO: Understanding Assault Charges
Assault is traditionally defined as “any deliberate act that causes another individual to fear imminent physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, aggressive gestures, and any attempt to strike another person. Battery, on the other hand, is defined as “the act of causing physical injury.” In essence, assault involves the threat of harm, while battery involves the actual physical act.
The severity of Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO assault charges can differ significantly based on the details of your case. Below is a quick overview of some common assault charges our skilled Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO criminal defense attorneys have handled:
- 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 bring about severe consequences.
- Aggravated Assault: This involves more serious actions, such as using a deadly weapon or inflicting significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically classified as a felony, leading to much stricter consequences in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO.
- Domestic Assault: Charges related to violence or threats against a spouse, partner, family member, or someone within the same household. Domestic assault cases can be more complicated due to the personal relationships involved.
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon: An escalated charge where the accused allegedly used a weapon during the assault. This can include 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 Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
Assault Lawyer: Types of Assault Charges in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO
In Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO and throughout Missouri, assault charges are divided into four degrees, each with its own specific criteria and associated penalties:
First Degree Assault in Bellefontaine Neighbors, 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 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 a Class B Felony, which carries a prison sentence of 5 to 15 years.
Second Degree Assault in Bellefontaine Neighbors, 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.
- Uses a deadly weapon or dangerous object to inflict or attempt to inflict injury.
- Recklessly causes serious physical injury to another individual.
- Injures another while driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Injures a law enforcement officer or emergency responder.
- 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 assault cases, they’re a Class D Felony and imprisonment ranges from 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO occurs when someone knowingly causes physical injury or recklessly inflicts serious injury on another another individual or recklessly causes serious injury.
- 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 Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and can include:
- Attempting to cause physical injury or placing someone in fear of immediate physical harm.
- Recklessly causing physical harm or making unwanted physical contact.
- Negligently causing physical harm with 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 Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO: Why You Need Combs Waterkotte Fighting for You
Assault charges can be complex, and the Bellefontaine Neighbors, 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 Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO:
Developing a Comprehensive Defense Strategy in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO
Every assault case is unique, and your lawyer will thoroughly investigate the details of your circumstances to build a tailored defense strategy. This could include:
- Evaluating the Evidence: Examining the prosecution’s evidence for inconsistencies, mistakes, or violations of your rights.
- Arguing Self-Defense: Proving that your actions were in self-defense or in defense of others. Other strong defenses might include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and being falsely accused.
- Questioning Witness Testimony: Identifying potential biases or unreliable aspects in witness statements.
- Negotiating Charges: Working with prosecutors to seek alternative sentencing options, or reduce or dismiss charges.
Striving to Lessen Penalties in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO
Even if a conviction seems likely, a dedicated Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO Combs Waterkotte defense lawyer can focus on reducing the penalties you face. This might include:
- Pursuing reduced charges or lighter sentences.
- Negotiating for alternatives to jail time, such as probation, community service, or diversion programs.
- Attempting to expunge or seal your records when possible, minimizing the long-term repercussions of a conviction.
Safeguarding Your Rights in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO
From the moment you’re charged in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO, your rights are at risk. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO assault defense lawyer ensures that your constitutional rights are preserved throughout receive fair treatment throughout investigations and court proceedings.
If you’re accused of assault in or around Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the leading assault lawyer in Bellefontaine Neighbors, 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 offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Bellefontaine Neighbors and beyond:
Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO
Combs Waterkotte is your trusted partner for assault defense in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO, leveraging over 30 years of combined experience and an in-depth 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. What sets Combs Waterkotte apart:
- Client-Focused: We prioritize open communication with our Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO clients, keeping you informed and involved every step of the way.
- Expertise: Our legal team has a proven track record, successfully defending hundreds of clients in assault cases similar to yours in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO.
- Relentless Advocacy: We aren’t afraid to confront the prosecution head-on, safeguarding your rights and pursuing the strongest possible defense.
- Proven Track Record: Our more than 350 reviews and track record throughout Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO speak volumes, with numerous cases resulting in reduced charges and dismissed charges.
Reach Out to a Leading Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you’re dealing with assault charges in the Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO area, it’s crucial to act swiftly. 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 Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO.
Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.
