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Hillsboro, MO

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Last Updated: September 4, 2024

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

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

Assault is generally 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 strike another individual. On the other hand, battery is defined as “the act of causing physical harm.” 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 Hillsboro, MO. Here’s a brief overview of some common assault charges our skilled criminal defense attorneys in Hillsboro, 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 result in considerable penalties.
  • Aggravated Assault: This involves more serious actions, like using a deadly weapon or causing significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically considered a felony, leading to much stricter consequences in Hillsboro, MO.
  • Domestic Assault: Charges that involve violence or threats against a spouse, partner, family member, or someone living in the same household. Domestic assault cases are often more complex due to the 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 include firearms, knives, or any object used in a way that could cause serious injury.

If you’re facing these charges or anything similar in or around Hillsboro, MO, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced Hillsboro, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.

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

Assault Lawyer Hillsboro, MO: Types of Assault Charges

In Hillsboro, 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 Hillsboro, 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 a Class B Felony, which ranges from 5 to 15 years in prison.

Second Degree Assault in Hillsboro, 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 inflicts serious injury on another individual.
    • Injures another while driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
    • Harms a law enforcement officer or emergency worker.
  • 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 assault cases, they’re a Class D Felony with potential imprisonment ranging from 1 to 7 years.

Third Degree Assault in Hillsboro, MO

  • Criteria: Third-degree assault in Hillsboro, MO occurs when someone knowingly inflicts physical injury on 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 Hillsboro, MO

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

    • Attempting to cause physical harm or placing someone in apprehension of immediate physical harm.
    • Recklessly causing physical injury or making unwanted physical contact.
    • Negligently causing physical harm 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 Hillsboro, MO: Why You Need Combs Waterkotte Fighting for You

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

Crafting a Robust Defense Strategy in Hillsboro, MO

Each Hillsboro, 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:

  • Evaluating the Evidence: Carefully analyzing the prosecution’s evidence for potential inconsistencies, errors, or violations of your rights.
  • Exploring Self-Defense: Arguing that your actions were taken in self-defense or in defense of another person. Other strong defenses might include: lack of intent, consent, and false accusation.
  • Challenging Witness Testimonies: Highlighting any potential biases or inconsistencies in the statements provided by witnesses.
  • Negotiating with the Prosecution: Working to secure alternative sentencing, or to reduce or dismiss the charges where possible.

Striving to Lessen Penalties in Hillsboro, MO

Even if a conviction seems imminent, a dedicated Hillsboro, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can work to minimize the consequences you face. This might involve:

  • Negotiating for reduced charges or lighter sentencing.
  • Negotiating for probation, community service, diversion programs, or other alternatives to incarceration.
  • Expunging or sealing records where possible to limit the long-term impact of a conviction.

Defending Your Rights in Hillsboro, MO

Once you are charged in Hillsboro, MO, your rights are at risk. A skilled|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Hillsboro, MO assault defense lawyer will ensure that your constitutional rights are upheld throughout receive equitable treatment throughout investigations and court proceedings.

  • Advocating for you in court to provide the best possible defense in Hillsboro, MO.
  • When you are accused of assault in or around Hillsboro, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the ideal assault lawyer in Hillsboro, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our knowledgeable assault defense lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for Hillsboro, MO residents:

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

    Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Hillsboro, MO

    At Combs Waterkotte, we specialize in defending assault charges in Hillsboro, MO, bringing over 30 years of combined experience and an in-depth knowledge of criminal law to every case we handle. Our commitment to our clients is unwavering, and we work tirelessly to make sure you receive the best possible outcome. 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 legal team has a proven track record, successfully defending hundreds of clients in assault cases similar to yours in Hillsboro, MO.
    • Tenacious Defense: We are not afraid to challenge the prosecution and fight for your rights in and out of the courtroom.
    • Proven Results: Our 350+ reviews and extensive case history in and around Hillsboro, MO demonstrate our ability to achieve favorable outcomes, including reduced and dismissed charges.

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

    If you’re facing assault charges in the Hillsboro, MO area, don’t delay in seeking the legal representation you need. 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 Hillsboro, 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 Hillsboro, MO.

    Reach out to us immediately at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.

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