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Farmington, MO

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Last Updated: September 4, 2024

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

If you’re charged with assault in Farmington, 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 expert Farmington, MO defense attorney.

Assault Lawyer in Farmington, MO: A Guide to Assault Charges

Assault is often 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. Battery, on the other hand, is defined as “the act of inflicting injury.” In summary, assault is the threat of harm, while battery is the actual act.

The severity of Farmington, MO assault charges can differ significantly based on the details of your case. Here’s a brief overview of some common assault charges our experienced criminal defense attorneys in Farmington, MO 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 simple assault conviction can still bring about severe consequences.
  • Aggravated Assault: This involves more serious offenses, like assault with a deadly weapon or causing significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is often treated as a felony, leading to harsher consequences in Farmington, MO.
  • Domestic Assault: Charges that involve violence or threats against a spouse, partner, family member, or someone within the same household. Domestic assault cases are often more complex due to the personal relationships involved.
  • Assault with a Deadly Weapon: A more severe charge where the accused allegedly used a weapon during the assault. This can include firearms, knives, or any object used in a manner that could cause serious harm.

Are you facing these or similar charges in the Farmington, MO area? It’s important to speak with a skilled Farmington, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Contact us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.

Assault Lawyer Farmington, MO | Criminal Defense Attorneys Near Farmington, MO | Combs Waterkotte

Assault Lawyer Farmington, MO: Types of Assault Charges Explained

In Farmington, MO and throughout Missouri, assault charges are categorized into four degrees. Each degree is based on specific actions and carries its own set of penalties:

First Degree Assault in Farmington, 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 injury is inflicted, it’s considered a Class A Felony, resulting in 10-30 years or life imprisonment. 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 Farmington, 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.
    • Attempts to cause or knowingly causes physical injury to another individual by means of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument.
    • Recklessly causes severe physical harm to someone else.
    • Causes injury while intoxicated and operating a vehicle or boat.
    • Injures a law enforcement officer or emergency personnel.
  • 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 instances, it is a Class D Felony with potential imprisonment ranging from 1 to 7 years.

Third Degree Assault in Farmington, MO

  • Criteria: Third-degree assault in Farmington, MO occurs when someone knowingly causes physical injury to another individual or recklessly causes serious injury.
  • Penalties: This charge is typically a Class E Felony, which can include up to 4 years in prison, fines, or probation, unless the assault was on a special victim, in which case it is a Class D Felony.

Fourth Degree Assault in Farmington, MO

  • Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least serious assault charge and may involve:

    • Attempting to cause physical injury or placing someone in fear of immediate physical harm.
    • 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 Farmington, MO: Why You Need Combs Waterkotte Fighting for You

An assault charge is serious, and the legal landscape in Farmington, 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 Farmington, MO:

Developing a Comprehensive Defense Strategy in Farmington, 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 inconsistencies, mistakes, or any infringement of your rights.
  • Arguing Self-Defense: Arguing that your actions were taken in self-defense or in defense of another person. Other strong defenses can include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and being falsely accused.
  • Questioning Witness Testimony: Identifying potential biases or inconsistencies in the statements provided by witnesses.
  • Negotiating with the Prosecution: Engaging with prosecutors to explore alternative sentencing options, or reduce or dismiss charges.

Efforts to Mitigate Penalties in Farmington, MO

Even if a conviction seems imminent, an experienced Farmington, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can work to minimize the penalties you might face. This might include:

  • Negotiating for reduced charges or more lenient sentencing.
  • 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 Farmington, MO

Once you are charged in Farmington, MO, your rights are in jeopardy. A skilled|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Farmington, MO assault defense attorney is committed to ensuring that your constitutional rights are preserved throughout receive equitable treatment during investigations and court proceedings.

  • Providing robust courtroom representation to secure the best defense on your behalf in Farmington, MO.
  • If you are facing an assault charge in or around Farmington, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the ideal assault lawyer in Farmington, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our knowledgeable assault defense lawyers, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Farmington and beyond:

    Assault Lawyer Farmington, MO | Criminal Defense Law Firm Near Farmington, MO | Combs Waterkotte

    Assault Lawyer Farmington, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte

    Combs Waterkotte specializes in defending assault charges in Farmington, MO, bringing over 30 years of combined experience and a deep knowledge of the complexities of criminal law in Farmington, 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-Focused: We prioritize open communication with our Farmington, 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 Farmington, MO, bringing a wealth of experience to your case.
    • Tenacious Defense: We aren’t afraid to confront the prosecution head-on, safeguarding your rights and pursuing the strongest possible defense.
    • Proven Results: Our more than 350 reviews and track record throughout Farmington, MO speak volumes, with numerous cases resulting in reduced charges and dismissed charges.

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

    If you’re confronted with assault charges in the Farmington, MO area, 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 Farmington, MO.

    Call us immediately at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.

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