Assault Lawyer in Gladstone, MO. Facing assault charges in Gladstone, 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 Gladstone, 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 Gladstone, 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 Gladstone, MO: A Guide to Assault Charges
Assault is often defined as “any deliberate act that causes another person to fear physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, aggressive gestures, and any attempt to cause physical harm. Battery, on the other hand, is defined as “the act of causing physical injury.” In summary, assault is the threat of harm, while battery involves the actual physical act.
Assault charges in Gladstone, MO can range in severity depending on the specifics of your situation. Below is an overview of some common assault charges our knowledgeable Gladstone, MO criminal defense attorneys frequently deal with:
- Simple Assault: This typically involves threats of violence or minor physical contact that doesn’t result in serious injury. Even though it may seem less severe, a conviction for simple assault can still carry significant penalties.
- Aggravated Assault: This involves more severe offenses, such as assault with a deadly weapon or causing significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically classified as a felony, leading to much stricter penalties in Gladstone, 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 are often more complex due to the close personal relationships involved.
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon: An escalated charge where the accused allegedly used a weapon during the assault. This can include firearms, knives, or any object used in a way that could cause serious injury.
Are you facing these or similar charges in the Gladstone, MO area? It’s important to speak with a skilled Gladstone, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Contact us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
Clay County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Clay County and Missouri.
Assault Lawyer: Types of Assault Charges in Gladstone, MO
In Gladstone, MO and throughout 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 Gladstone, 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 a serious physical injury occurs, it’s categorized as a Class A Felony which leads to 10-30 years or life imprisonment. Without serious injury, it’s a Class B Felony, which carries a prison sentence of 5 to 15 years.
Second Degree Assault in Gladstone, 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.
- 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.
- Causes injury while driving or boating under the influence.
- Physically 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 Gladstone, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Gladstone, MO occurs when an individual knowingly inflicts physical injury on another individual or recklessly causes serious harm.
- Penalties: These are classified as 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 Gladstone, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and may involve:
- Attempting to cause physical harm 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: 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 Gladstone, MO
An assault charge is serious, and the legal landscape in Gladstone, 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 Gladstone, MO:
Crafting a Robust Defense Strategy in Gladstone, MO
No two assault cases in Gladstone, MO are alike. Your attorney will carefully analyze the specifics of your situation to formulate a personalized defense strategy. This may involve:
- Scrutinizing the Evidence: Investigating the prosecution’s evidence for potential inconsistencies, errors, or breaches of your rights.
- Exploring Self-Defense: Demonstrating that you were acting in self-defense or in defense of another person. Additional strong defenses can include: lack of intent, consent, and false accusation.
- Questioning Witness Testimony: Highlighting any potential biases or inconsistencies in the statements provided by witnesses.
- Negotiating Charges: Engaging with prosecutors to explore alternative sentences, or work toward reducing or dismissing charges altogether.
Efforts to Mitigate Penalties in Gladstone, MO
Even if a conviction seems likely, an experienced Gladstone, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can work to minimize the consequences you might face. Strategies might include:
- Negotiating for reduced charges or lighter sentencing.
- Negotiating 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 Gladstone, MO
From the moment charges are filed in Gladstone, MO, your rights are at risk. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Gladstone, MO assault defense attorney ensures that your constitutional rights are upheld throughout every stage of the legal process during investigations and court proceedings.
If you are facing an assault charge in or around Gladstone, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just hiring the ideal assault lawyer in Gladstone, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our esteemed assault defense lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Gladstone and beyond:
Assault Lawyer Gladstone, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte
At Combs Waterkotte, we specialize in defending assault charges in Gladstone, MO, leveraging over 30 years of combined experience and a comprehensive knowledge of criminal law to deliver exceptional results. 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-Centered Approach: 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 Gladstone, 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.
- Proven Track Record: Our more than 400 reviews and track record throughout Gladstone, MO speak volumes, with numerous cases resulting in reduced charges and dismissed charges.
Reach Out to a Leading Gladstone, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you’re dealing with assault charges in the Gladstone, MO area, it’s crucial to act swiftly. 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 Gladstone, 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 Gladstone, MO.
Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
