Assault Lawyer in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO. Facing assault charges in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO is a serious situation that can have life-altering consequences. A conviction can lead to significant penalties, including jail time, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record, not to mention the social stigma that comes with it.
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 expert Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO defense attorney.
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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.
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 Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO 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, threatening gestures, and any attempt to cause physical harm. On the other hand, battery 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.
Assault charges in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO can range in severity depending on the specifics of your situation. Below is an overview of some common assault charges our knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO frequently deal with:
- Simple Assault: This typically involves threats of violence or minor physical contact that doesn’t result in serious injury. Despite appearing less severe, a conviction for simple assault can still bring about severe consequences.
- Aggravated Assault: This encompasses more severe actions, like assault with a deadly weapon or inflicting significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is often treated as a felony, leading to harsher penalties in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO.
- Domestic Assault: Charges that stem from violence or threats against a spouse, partner, family member, or someone within the same household. Domestic assault cases are often more complex due to the close personal relationships involved.
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon: An enhanced charge where the accused allegedly used a weapon during the assault. This can involve firearms, knives, or any object used in a manner that could cause serious harm.
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.
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 Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO: Types of Assault Charges Explained
In Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO and across Missouri, assault charges are classified 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 injury is inflicted, it’s considered a Class A Felony, resulting in 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 Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO
- Criteria: The charge of second-degree assault is applicable when someone:
- Attempts to kill or knowingly causes severe physical harm under sudden passion due to adequate cause.
- Uses a deadly weapon or dangerous object to inflict or attempt to inflict injury.
- Recklessly inflicts serious injury on another individual.
- Causes injury while driving or boating under the influence.
- Physically harms a law enforcement officer or emergency personnel.
- 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 a potential prison sentence of 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO occurs when someone knowingly inflicts physical injury on another individual or recklessly causes serious harm.
- Penalties: These are classified 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 Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and can involve:
- Attempting to cause physical injury or placing someone in apprehension of immediate physical injury.
- 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 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
Each Bellefontaine Neighbors, 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.
- Proving Self-Defense: Proving that your actions were in self-defense or in defense of others. Other potential defenses might include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and being falsely accused.
- Questioning Witness Testimony: Highlighting any potential biases or unreliable aspects in witness statements.
- Negotiating with the Prosecution: Working with prosecutors to explore alternative sentencing options, or reduce or dismiss charges.
Efforts to Mitigate Penalties in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO
Even if a conviction appears unavoidable, an experienced Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO Combs Waterkotte defense lawyer can aim to mitigate the penalties you face. Strategies might include:
- Pursuing reduced charges or lighter sentences.
- Negotiating for alternatives to jail time, such as probation, community service, or diversion programs.
- Seeking to expunge or seal records where eligible, reducing the long-term effects of a conviction.
Safeguarding Your Rights in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO
From the moment you’re charged in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO, your rights could be compromised. A skilled|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO assault defense attorney will ensure that your constitutional rights are protected throughout every stage of the legal process during investigations and court proceedings.
If you’re facing an assault charge in or around Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the leading assault lawyer in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our experienced assault defense attorneys, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Bellefontaine Neighbors and beyond:
Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO
At Combs Waterkotte, we specialize in defending assault charges in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO, bringing over three decades of experience and a deep understanding of the complexities of criminal law in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO. Our commitment to our clients is unwavering, and we work tirelessly to make sure you receive the best possible outcome. Here’s what makes Combs Waterkotte stand out:
- Client-Focused: We maintain clear and consistent communication with our Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO clients, ensuring you’re informed and engaged throughout the entire process.
- Expertise: Our legal team has defended hundreds of clients facing assault charges just like yours in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO, bringing a wealth of experience to your case.
- Tenacious Defense: 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 400 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 confronted with assault charges in Bellefontaine Neighbors, 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 Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO.
Reach out to us today at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.
