Assault Lawyer in Benton, MO. Facing an assault charge in Benton, 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 Benton, MO societal stigma that accompanies it.
Scott County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Scott County and Missouri.
If you’re charged with assault in Benton, 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 Benton, MO defense attorney.
Assault Lawyer in Benton, MO: Understanding Assault Charges
Assault is traditionally defined as “any deliberate act that causes another person to fear 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 harm.” In short, assault is the act of threatening someone with physical harm, while battery is the actual act.
Assault charges can vary widely in severity depending on the circumstances of your case in Benton, MO. Below is a quick overview of some common assault charges our skilled Benton, MO criminal defense attorneys have handled:
- Simple Assault: Often involving threats of violence or minor physical altercations that don’t result in serious injury. Despite appearing less severe, a conviction for simple assault can still result in considerable penalties.
- Aggravated Assault: This involves more serious actions, like using a deadly weapon or causing significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is often treated as a felony, leading to harsher penalties in Benton, 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 close personal relationships involved.
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon: A more severe 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 Benton, MO, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced Benton, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
Assault Lawyer: Types of Assault Charges in Benton, MO
In Benton, MO and across Missouri, assault charges are classified into four degrees. Each degree has specific criteria and penalties associated with it:
First Degree Assault in Benton, 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. If no serious injury results, it’s a Class B Felony, which carries a prison sentence of 5 to 15 years.
Second Degree Assault in Benton, 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 causes serious physical injury to another individual.
- Causes injury while driving or boating under the influence.
- Harms a law enforcement officer or emergency worker.
- 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 with a potential prison sentence of 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Benton, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Benton, MO occurs when someone knowingly causes physical injury or recklessly inflicts serious injury on another another individual or recklessly causes serious injury.
- Penalties: This offense is categorized as 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 Benton, 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 injury or offensive 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 Benton, MO: Why Combs Waterkotte is the Defense You Need
An assault charge is serious, and the legal landscape in Benton, 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 Benton, MO:
Crafting a Robust Defense Strategy in Benton, MO
No two assault cases in Benton, 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 discrepancies, mistakes, or violations of your rights.
- Proving Self-Defense: Demonstrating that you were acting in self-defense or in defense of others. Other potential defenses can include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and false accusation.
- Questioning Witness Testimony: Highlighting any biases or inconsistencies in the statements provided by witnesses.
- Negotiating Charges: Working with prosecutors to explore alternative sentences, or work toward reducing or dismissing charges altogether.
Striving to Lessen Penalties in Benton, MO
Even if a conviction appears unavoidable, a dedicated Benton, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can focus on reducing the penalties you face. Strategies might include:
- Seeking reduced charges or lighter sentencing.
- Advocating for probation, community service, diversion programs, 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 Benton, MO
From the moment charges are filed in Benton, MO, your rights are in jeopardy. A skilled|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Benton, MO assault defense attorney is committed to ensuring that your constitutional rights are upheld throughout receive equitable treatment during investigations and court proceedings.
If you’re accused of assault in or around Benton, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the best assault lawyer in Benton, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable assault defense lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for Benton, MO residents:
Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Benton, MO
Combs Waterkotte is your trusted partner for assault defense in Benton, MO, leveraging over three decades of experience and a deep understanding of the complexities of criminal law in Benton, MO. 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 prioritize open communication with our Benton, 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 Benton, MO.
- 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 Benton, MO demonstrate our ability to achieve favorable outcomes, including reduced and dismissed charges.
Contact the Top Benton, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Right Now
If you’re confronted with assault charges in Benton, 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 Benton, MO.
Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.
