Buchanan County, MO

Assault Lawyer in Buchanan County, MO. Facing assault charges in Buchanan County, 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 facing assault charges anywhere in the Buchanan County, 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.
Call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation to go over the specifics of your case with a knowledgeable Buchanan County, MO defense attorney.

Assault Lawyer in Buchanan County, MO: A Guide to Assault Charges

Assault is traditionally defined as “any intentional act that causes another person to fear physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, threatening gestures, and any attempt to strike another individual. On the other hand, battery is defined as “the act of inflicting injury.” In short, assault is the act of threatening someone with physical harm, while battery is the actual act.

The severity of Buchanan County, 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 Buchanan County, 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 conviction for simple assault can still bring about severe consequences.
• Aggravated Assault: This involves more serious actions, like assault with a deadly weapon or inflicting substantial bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically considered a felony, leading to much stricter penalties in Buchanan County, MO.
• Domestic Assault: Charges that involve 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 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 Buchanan County, MO, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced Buchanan County, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.

Assault Lawyer: Types of Assault Charges in Buchanan County, MO

In Buchanan County, 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 Buchanan County, MO

• Criteria: First-degree assault occurs when someone intentionally attempts to take another individual’s life or knowingly causes or attempts to cause severe physical injury.
• 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, with a sentence ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison.

Second Degree Assault in Buchanan County, MO

• Criteria: The charge of second-degree assault applies 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 severe physical harm to someone else.
  • Injures another while driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • 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 assault cases, they’re a Class D Felony with potential imprisonment ranging from 1 to 7 years.

Third Degree Assault in Buchanan County, MO

• Criteria: Third-degree assault in Buchanan County, MO occurs when an individual knowingly causes physical injury to 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 Buchanan County, MO

• Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and may include:
  • Attempting to cause physical harm or placing someone in apprehension of immediate physical injury.
  • Recklessly causing physical harm or offensive physical 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 Buchanan County, MO: Why Combs Waterkotte is the Defense You Need

Assault charges can be complex, and the Buchanan County, 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 Buchanan County, MO:

Building a Strong Defense Strategy in Buchanan County, 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:

• Challenging the Evidence: Carefully analyzing the prosecution’s evidence for potential inconsistencies, mistakes, or any infringement of your rights.
• Proving Self-Defense: Demonstrating that you were acting in self-defense or in defense of others. Additional strong defenses can include: lack of intent, consent, and being falsely accused.
• Challenging Witness Testimonies: Highlighting any potential biases or unreliable testimonies from witnesses.
• Negotiating with the Prosecution: Working to secure alternative sentencing, or to reduce or dismiss the charges where possible.

Efforts to Mitigate Penalties in Buchanan County, MO

Even if a conviction appears unavoidable, an experienced Buchanan County, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can work to minimize the penalties you face. This might involve:

• Pursuing reduced charges or lighter sentences.
• Negotiating for alternatives to jail time, such as probation, community service, or diversion programs.
• Expunging or sealing records where possible to limit the long-term impact of a conviction.

Safeguarding Your Rights in Buchanan County, MO

From the moment charges are filed in Buchanan County, MO, your rights are in jeopardy. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Buchanan County, MO assault defense attorney will ensure that your constitutional rights are protected throughout the legal process in Buchanan County, MO. This involves:

• Protecting you from self-incrimination and unlawful search and seizure.
• Ensuring you {are treated fairly during investigations and court proceedings.
• Advocating for you in court to build the best possible defense in Buchanan County, MO.

If you are accused of assault in or around Buchanan County, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the best assault lawyer in Buchanan County, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our esteemed assault defense lawyers, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Buchanan County and beyond:

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

Assault Lawyer Buchanan County, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte

At Combs Waterkotte, we specialize in defending assault charges in Buchanan County, MO, leveraging over 30 years of combined experience and a comprehensive knowledge of the complexities of criminal law in Buchanan County, 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 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 Buchanan County, MO, bringing a wealth of experience to your case.
• Relentless Advocacy: We are not afraid to challenge the prosecution and fight for your rights in and out of the courtroom.
• Proven Track Record: Our more than 350 reviews and track record throughout Buchanan County, MO speak volumes, with numerous cases resulting in reduced charges and dismissed charges.

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

If you’re dealing with assault charges in or around Buchanan County, 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 Buchanan County, MO.

Reach out to us as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.