Assault Lawyer in Cape Girardeau, MO. Facing an assault charge in Cape Girardeau, 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 Cape Girardeau, MO societal stigma that accompanies it.
If you’re facing assault charges anywhere in the Cape Girardeau, 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.
Contact Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation where you can discuss the specifics of your case with a knowledgeable Cape Girardeau, MO defense attorney.
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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 Cape Girardeau, MO Assault Charges
Assault is generally 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 individual. On the other hand, battery is defined as “the act of causing physical harm.” In essence, assault involves the threat of harm, while battery involves the actual physical act.
The severity of Cape Girardeau, MO assault charges can differ significantly based on the details of your case. Here’s a brief overview of some common assault charges our knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys in Cape Girardeau, MO have handled:
- Simple Assault: This typically involves threats of violence or minor physical contact that doesn’t result in serious injury. Despite appearing less severe, a simple assault conviction can still bring about severe consequences.
- Aggravated Assault: This encompasses more severe offenses, such as assault with a deadly weapon or causing substantial bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically considered a felony, leading to more severe consequences in Cape Girardeau, MO.
- Domestic Assault: Charges that stem from violence or threats against a spouse, partner, family member, or someone living in the same household. Domestic assault cases can be more complicated 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 can involve firearms, knives, or any object used in a manner that could cause serious harm.
Are you facing these or similar charges in the Cape Girardeau, MO area? It’s important to speak with a skilled Cape Girardeau, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Contact us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
Cape Girardeau County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Cape Girardeau County and Missouri.
Assault Lawyer: Types of Assault Charges in Cape Girardeau, MO
In Cape Girardeau, MO and throughout Missouri, assault charges are classified into four degrees. Each degree has specific criteria and penalties associated with it:
First Degree Assault in Cape Girardeau, 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 classified as a Class B Felony, with a sentence ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison.
Second Degree Assault in Cape Girardeau, MO
- Criteria: The charge of second-degree assault is applicable when someone:
- Attempts to kill or causes serious physical injury under the influence of sudden passion provoked by adequate cause.
- Attempts to cause or knowingly causes physical injury to another individual by means of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument.
- Recklessly causes serious physical injury to another individual.
- Injures another while driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Harms a law enforcement officer or emergency responder.
- 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 Cape Girardeau, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Cape Girardeau, MO occurs when an individual knowingly inflicts physical injury on 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 Cape Girardeau, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and can include:
- Attempting to cause physical injury or placing someone in apprehension of immediate physical harm.
- 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: Why You Need Combs Waterkotte on Your Side in Cape Girardeau, MO
Facing an assault charge is daunting, and navigating the Cape Girardeau, 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 Cape Girardeau, MO:
Developing a Comprehensive Defense Strategy in Cape Girardeau, MO
No two assault cases in Cape Girardeau, 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, errors, or violations of your rights.
- Arguing Self-Defense: Arguing that your actions were taken in self-defense or in defense of another person. Additional strong defenses can include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and being falsely accused.
- Disputing Witness Testimony: Highlighting any biases or unreliable testimonies from witnesses.
- Negotiating Charges: Working with prosecutors to seek alternative sentences, or work toward reducing or dismissing charges altogether.
Working to Reduce Penalties in Cape Girardeau, MO
Even if a conviction seems likely, a dedicated Cape Girardeau, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can focus on reducing the penalties you might face. This could include:
- Seeking reduced charges or more lenient sentences.
- Advocating 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.
Defending Your Rights in Cape Girardeau, MO
From the moment you’re charged in Cape Girardeau, MO, your rights are at risk. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Cape Girardeau, MO assault defense lawyer is committed to ensuring that your constitutional rights are preserved throughout receive fair treatment throughout investigations and court proceedings.
When you’re facing an assault charge in or around Cape Girardeau, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the leading assault lawyer in Cape Girardeau, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our experienced assault defense lawyers, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Cape Girardeau, MO residents:
Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Cape Girardeau, MO
Combs Waterkotte is your trusted partner for assault defense in Cape Girardeau, MO, leveraging over 30 years of combined experience and a deep understanding of the complexities of criminal law in Cape Girardeau, MO. Our dedication to our clients is unmatched, and we strive to secure the best possible outcomes. Here’s what makes Combs Waterkotte stand out:
- Client-Focused: We prioritize open communication with our Cape Girardeau, MO clients, keeping you informed and involved every step of the way.
- Expertise: Our legal team has defended hundreds of clients facing assault charges just like yours in Cape Girardeau, MO, bringing a wealth of experience to your case.
- Relentless Advocacy: We’re committed to challenging the prosecution and vigorously defending your rights, both inside and outside the courtroom.
- Demonstrated Success: Our 350+ reviews and extensive case history in and around Cape Girardeau, MO demonstrate our ability to achieve favorable outcomes, including reduced and dismissed charges.
Reach Out to a Leading Cape Girardeau, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you’re dealing with assault charges in or around Cape Girardeau, 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 Cape Girardeau, MO.
Call us immediately at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.
