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Assault Lawyer Fulton, MO

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Last Updated: September 4, 2024

Assault Lawyer in Fulton, MO. Facing assault charges in Fulton, 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 Fulton, 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 Fulton, MO defense attorney.

Assault Lawyer in Fulton, MO: A Guide to 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. 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.

The severity of Fulton, 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 Fulton, MO criminal defense attorneys 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 carry significant penalties.
  • Aggravated Assault: This encompasses more severe actions, like using a deadly weapon or inflicting significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically considered a felony, leading to more severe penalties in Fulton, 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 escalated 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 injury.

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

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

Assault Lawyer: Types of Assault Charges in Fulton, MO

In Fulton, MO and throughout Missouri, assault charges are categorized into four degrees. Each degree has specific criteria and penalties associated with it:

First Degree Assault in Fulton, 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, which carries a prison sentence of 5 to 15 years.

Second Degree Assault in Fulton, 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 intentionally inflicts injury using 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 worker.
  • 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 Fulton, MO

  • Criteria: Third-degree assault in Fulton, 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, 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 Fulton, MO

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

    • Attempting to cause physical injury or placing someone in fear of immediate physical injury.
    • Recklessly causing physical harm or making unwanted physical contact.
    • Negligently causing physical injury with a deadly weapon.
  • Penalties: This charge is generally a Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $2,000. However, if a special victim is involved, it escalates to a Class E Felony, carrying up to 4 years in prison.

Assault Lawyer: Why You Need Combs Waterkotte on Your Side in Fulton, MO

Assault charges can be complex, and the Fulton, 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 Fulton, MO:

Crafting a Robust Defense Strategy in Fulton, MO

Each Fulton, MO assault case comes with its own set of complexities. Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation into your case to develop a tailored assault defense strategy that might include:

  • Scrutinizing the Evidence: Carefully analyzing the prosecution’s evidence for potential inconsistencies, mistakes, or any infringement of your rights.
  • Exploring Self-Defense: Demonstrating that you were acting in self-defense or in defense of others. Additional strong defenses can include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and false accusation.
  • Disputing Witness Testimony: Identifying potential biases or unreliable testimonies from witnesses.
  • Negotiating with the Prosecution: Engaging with prosecutors to explore alternative sentencing options, or reduce or dismiss charges.

Striving to Lessen Penalties in Fulton, MO

Even if a conviction seems imminent, a dedicated Fulton, MO Combs Waterkotte defense lawyer can work to minimize the consequences you face. This could include:

  • Negotiating for reduced charges or lighter 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.

Protecting Your Rights in Fulton, MO

From the moment charges are filed in Fulton, MO, your rights are at risk. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Fulton, MO assault defense attorney is committed to ensuring that your constitutional rights are upheld throughout receive fair treatment during investigations and court proceedings.

  • Advocating for you in court to build the best possible defense in Fulton, MO.
  • When you’re facing an assault charge in or around Fulton, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the leading assault lawyer in Fulton, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable assault defense attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Fulton and beyond:

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

    Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Fulton, MO

    Combs Waterkotte specializes in defending assault charges in Fulton, MO, bringing more than three decades of experience and a deep knowledge of criminal law to every case we handle. We are fully committed to our clients, working diligently to ensure the best outcomes possible. What sets Combs Waterkotte apart:

    • Client-Centered Approach: We emphasize transparent communication, keeping you informed and involved in every step of your defense.
    • Expertise: Our attorneys have successfully defended hundreds of clients against assault charges in cases just like yours in Fulton, MO.
    • Relentless Advocacy: We are not afraid to challenge the prosecution and fight for your rights in and out of the courtroom.
    • Demonstrated Success: Our more than 350 reviews and track record throughout Fulton, MO speak volumes, with numerous cases resulting in reduced charges and dismissed charges.

    Contact the Top Fulton, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Right Now

    If you’re dealing with assault charges in or around Fulton, MO, don’t wait to see what happens. Get the legal help you need right away. Reach out to the assault defense team at Combs Waterkotte for a free, no-obligation consultation with a skilled attorney. We’re dedicated to protecting your rights and advocating for your future in Fulton, MO. Contact the experienced assault attorneys at Combs Waterkotte for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. We are dedicated to defending your rights and securing the best outcome for your case in Fulton, MO.

    Call us as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.

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