Bridgeton, MO

Assault Lawyer in Bridgeton, MO. Facing an assault charge in Bridgeton, 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 Bridgeton, MO societal stigma that accompanies it.

If you are facing an assault charge in Bridgeton, MO or anywhere in Missouri, securing the services of an experienced assault and battery lawyer can be the key to avoiding those severe consequences and maintaining your freedom.
Contact Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation to go over the specifics of your case with an expert Bridgeton, MO defense attorney.

Assault Lawyer in Bridgeton, MO: A Guide to 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 cause physical harm. 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.

Assault charges in Bridgeton, MO can range in severity depending on the specifics of your situation. Below is a quick overview of some common assault charges our knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys in Bridgeton, MO frequently work on:

• Simple Assault: This usually 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, such as assault with a deadly weapon or inflicting significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically classified as a felony, leading to much stricter consequences in Bridgeton, 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 often have additional complications due to the close personal relationships involved.
• Assault with a Deadly Weapon: An enhanced charge where the accused is alleged to have used a weapon during the assault. This could 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 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.

Assault Lawyer Bridgeton, MO: Types of Assault Charges

In Bridgeton, MO and across Missouri, assault charges are categorized into four degrees, each with its own specific criteria and associated 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. 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 Bridgeton, 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.
  • 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 cases, it’s considered a Class D Felony and imprisonment ranges from 1 to 7 years.

Third Degree Assault in Bridgeton, MO

• Criteria: Third-degree assault in Bridgeton, MO occurs when someone 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 serious assault charge and can involve:
  • Attempting to cause physical injury or placing someone in fear of immediate physical harm.
  • Recklessly causing physical injury or making unwanted physical contact.
  • Negligently causing physical harm with a deadly weapon.
• Penalties: Generally, this charge is a Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $2,000. However, if the offense involves a special victim, it’s upgraded to a Class E Felony, with a potential sentence of up to 4 years in prison.

Assault Lawyer Bridgeton, MO: Why Combs Waterkotte is the Defense You Need

Facing an assault charge is daunting, and navigating the Bridgeton, MO-area legal system can be overwhelming. An experienced assault defense lawyer is vital in helping you manage this challenging process. Here’s why Combs Waterkotte is your best ally in Bridgeton, MO:

Crafting a Robust Defense Strategy in Bridgeton, MO

No two assault cases in Bridgeton, MO are alike. Your attorney will carefully analyze the specifics of your situation to formulate a personalized defense strategy. This may involve:

• Scrutinizing the Evidence: Examining the prosecution’s evidence for potential inconsistencies, mistakes, or violations of your rights.
• Exploring Self-Defense: Arguing that your actions were taken in self-defense or in defense of others. Additional strong defenses can include: lack of intent, consent, and being falsely accused.
• Disputing Witness Testimony: Highlighting any potential biases or inconsistencies in the statements provided by witnesses.
• Negotiating with the Prosecution: Working with prosecutors to explore alternative sentencing options, or reduce or dismiss charges.

Efforts to Mitigate Penalties in Bridgeton, MO

Even if a conviction seems imminent, a dedicated Bridgeton, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can aim to mitigate the consequences you might face. Strategies could include:

• Negotiating for reduced charges or more lenient sentencing.
• Advocating for probation, community service, diversion programs, or other alternatives to incarceration.
• Attempting to expunge or seal your records when possible, minimizing the long-term repercussions of a conviction.

Safeguarding Your Rights in Bridgeton, MO

From the moment charges are filed in Bridgeton, MO, your rights are in jeopardy. A skilled|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Bridgeton, MO assault defense lawyer will ensure that your constitutional rights are preserved throughout every stage of the legal process during investigations and court proceedings.

When you are facing an assault charge in or around Bridgeton, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the leading assault lawyer in Bridgeton, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our esteemed assault defense attorneys, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for Bridgeton, MO residents:

• DWI Administrative Hearing Lawyer
• Violent Crime Lawyer
• Drug Crimes Lawyer
• Gun Crime Lawyer
• Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
• Homicide Lawyer
• Rape Defense Lawyer

Assault Lawyer Bridgeton, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte

Combs Waterkotte specializes in defending assault charges in Bridgeton, MO, bringing 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-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 Bridgeton, MO.
• 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 350 reviews and track record throughout Bridgeton, MO speak volumes, with numerous cases resulting in reduced charges and dismissed charges.

Reach Out to a Leading Bridgeton, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today

If you’re facing assault charges in Bridgeton, 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 Bridgeton, MO.

Reach out to us today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.