Assault Lawyer in Des Peres, MO. Facing assault charges in Des Peres, 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 Des Peres, 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 to go over the specifics of your case with an experienced Des Peres, 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 in Des Peres, MO: A Guide to Assault Charges
Assault is traditionally defined as “any intentional act that causes another individual to fear 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 inflicting injury.” In short, assault is the act of threatening someone with physical harm, while battery involves the actual physical act.
Assault charges can vary widely in severity depending on the circumstances of your case in Des Peres, MO. Below is an overview of some common assault charges our experienced criminal defense attorneys in Des Peres, MO have handled:
- Simple Assault: Often involving threats of violence or minor physical altercations that don’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 encompasses more serious offenses, such as using a deadly weapon or inflicting substantial bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically classified as a felony, leading to much stricter penalties in Des Peres, 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 can be more complicated due to the 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.
Are you facing these or similar charges in the Des Peres, MO area? It’s important to speak with a skilled Des Peres, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Contact 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 Des Peres, MO: Types of Assault Charges
In Des Peres, MO and across Missouri, assault charges are classified into four degrees. Each degree is based on specific actions and carries its own set of penalties:
First Degree Assault in Des Peres, 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. If no serious injury results, it’s classified as a Class B Felony, with a sentence ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison.
Second Degree Assault in Des Peres, 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 severe physical harm to someone else.
- 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 with potential imprisonment ranging from 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Des Peres, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Des Peres, MO occurs when an individual knowingly causes physical injury to 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 Des Peres, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and may involve:
- Attempting to cause physical injury or placing someone in apprehension of immediate physical injury.
- Recklessly causing physical injury or offensive physical contact.
- Negligently causing physical injury using 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: Why You Need Combs Waterkotte on Your Side in Des Peres, MO
Assault charges can be complex, and the Des Peres, 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 Des Peres, MO:
Developing a Comprehensive Defense Strategy in Des Peres, 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:
- Evaluating the Evidence: Investigating the prosecution’s evidence for potential inconsistencies, mistakes, or any infringement of your rights.
- Proving Self-Defense: Proving that your actions were in self-defense or in defense of others. Other strong defenses can include: lack of intent, consent, and being falsely accused.
- Challenging Witness Testimonies: Highlighting any 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 Des Peres, MO
Even if a conviction seems likely, an experienced Des Peres, MO Combs Waterkotte defense lawyer can focus on reducing the penalties you might face. This could involve:
- Negotiating for reduced charges or lighter sentencing.
- Advocating 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 Des Peres, MO
From the moment charges are filed in Des Peres, MO, your rights could be compromised. A skilled|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Des Peres, MO assault defense lawyer will ensure that your constitutional rights are upheld throughout every stage of the legal process throughout investigations and court proceedings.
If you’re facing an assault charge in or around Des Peres, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the best assault lawyer in Des Peres, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our esteemed assault defense lawyers, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Des Peres and beyond:
Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Des Peres, MO
Combs Waterkotte specializes in defending assault charges in Des Peres, MO, leveraging more than 30 years of combined experience and an in-depth understanding of the complexities of criminal law in Des Peres, MO. We are fully committed to our clients, working diligently to ensure the best outcomes possible. Here’s what makes Combs Waterkotte stand out:
- Client-Focused: We prioritize open communication with our Des Peres, MO clients, keeping you informed and involved every step of the way.
- Expertise: Our attorneys have successfully defended hundreds of clients against assault charges in cases just like yours in Des Peres, MO.
- Relentless Advocacy: We’re committed to challenging the prosecution and vigorously defending your rights, both inside and outside the courtroom.
- Proven Results: Our more than 400 reviews and track record throughout Des Peres, MO speak volumes, with numerous cases resulting in reduced charges and dismissed charges.
Contact the Top Des Peres, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Right Now
If you’re dealing with assault charges in Des Peres, 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 Des Peres, MO.
Call us as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
