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Jackson County, MO

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Last Updated: September 4, 2024

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

If you’re facing assault charges anywhere in the Jackson County, 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 to go over the specifics of your case with a knowledgeable Jackson County, MO defense attorney.

Assault Lawyer in Jackson County, MO: Understanding Assault Charges

Assault is traditionally defined as “any intentional act that causes another person to fear physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, threatening 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 threat of harm, while battery involves the actual physical act.

Assault charges can vary widely in severity depending on the circumstances of your case in Jackson County, MO. Here’s a brief overview of some common assault charges our skilled Jackson County, MO criminal defense attorneys have handled:

  • Simple Assault: This usually involves threats of violence or minor physical contact that doesn’t result in serious injury. Even though it may seem less severe, a simple assault conviction can still carry significant penalties.
  • Aggravated Assault: This encompasses more serious offenses, like using a deadly weapon or inflicting substantial bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically classified as a felony, leading to harsher consequences in Jackson County, 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 often have additional complications due to the personal relationships involved.
  • Assault with a Deadly Weapon: An enhanced charge where the accused is alleged to have used a weapon during the assault. This could involve firearms, knives, or any object used in a manner that could cause serious injury.

Facing these charges or anything similar in or around Jackson County, MO? You need to speak with an expert Jackson County, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Give us a call now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.

Assault Lawyer Jackson County, MO | Criminal Defense Attorneys Near Jackson County, MO | Combs Waterkotte

Assault Lawyer Jackson County, MO: Types of Assault Charges Explained

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

First Degree Assault in Jackson County, 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 occurs, it’s a Class B Felony, with a sentence ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison.

Second Degree Assault in Jackson County, 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.
    • Uses a deadly weapon or dangerous object to inflict or attempt to inflict injury.
    • Recklessly causes serious physical injury to another individual.
    • Causes injury while driving or boating under the influence.
    • Harms a law enforcement officer or emergency personnel.
  • Penalties: When a law enforcement officer is involved, it’s classified as a Class B Felony, leading to 5 to 15 years in prison. For other cases, it’s considered a Class D Felony and imprisonment ranges from 1 to 7 years.

Third Degree Assault in Jackson County, MO

  • Criteria: Third-degree assault in Jackson County, 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, 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 Jackson County, MO

  • Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and can include:

    • Attempting to cause physical harm or placing someone in fear of immediate physical harm.
    • Recklessly causing physical injury or making unwanted 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 Jackson County, MO: Why Combs Waterkotte is the Defense You Need

Facing an assault charge is daunting, and navigating the Jackson County, MO-area legal system can be overwhelming. An experienced assault defense lawyer is vital in helping you manage this challenging process. Here’s why Combs Waterkotte is your best ally in Jackson County, MO:

Developing a Comprehensive Defense Strategy in Jackson County, 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:

  • Scrutinizing the Evidence: Examining the prosecution’s evidence for potential inconsistencies, mistakes, or breaches of your rights.
  • Exploring Self-Defense: Arguing that your actions were taken in self-defense or in defense of others. Other potential defenses might include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and being falsely accused.
  • Disputing Witness Testimony: Identifying biases or unreliable testimonies from witnesses.
  • Negotiating with the Prosecution: Engaging to secure alternative sentencing, or to reduce or dismiss the charges where possible.

Efforts to Mitigate Penalties in Jackson County, MO

Even if a conviction appears unavoidable, an experienced Jackson County, MO Combs Waterkotte defense lawyer can work to minimize the consequences you might face. Strategies might include:

  • Negotiating for reduced charges or lighter sentences.
  • 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.

Defending Your Rights in Jackson County, MO

From the moment charges are filed in Jackson County, MO, your rights are at risk. A skilled|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Jackson County, MO assault defense attorney ensures that your constitutional rights are protected throughout receive fair treatment during investigations and court proceedings.

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

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

    Assault Lawyer Jackson County, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte

    At Combs Waterkotte, we specialize in defending assault charges in Jackson County, MO, bringing more than 30 years of combined experience and an in-depth knowledge of criminal law to deliver exceptional results. Our commitment to our clients is unwavering, and we work tirelessly to make sure you receive the best possible outcome. Here’s why Combs Waterkotte is the right choice:

    • Client-Centered Approach: We maintain clear and consistent communication with our Jackson County, MO clients, ensuring you’re informed and engaged throughout the entire process.
    • Expertise: Our legal team has a proven track record, successfully defending hundreds of clients in assault cases similar to yours in Jackson County, MO.
    • Relentless Advocacy: We are not afraid to challenge the prosecution and fight for your rights in and out of the courtroom.
    • Proven Track Record: With over 350 positive reviews and numerous case victories in Jackson County, MO and beyond, our history of success is clear, with many clients seeing reduced or dismissed charges.

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

    If you’re confronted with assault charges in or around Jackson County, MO, 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 Jackson County, 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 Jackson County, MO.

    Reach out to us immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.

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