Assault Lawyer in Kansas City, MO. Facing assault charges in Kansas City, 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.
Jackson County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Jackson County and Missouri.
If you’re facing assault charges anywhere in the Kansas City, 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 an expert Kansas City, MO defense attorney.
Assault Lawyer: Understanding Kansas City, MO Assault Charges
Assault is generally defined as “any deliberate act that causes another individual to fear physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, aggressive gestures, and any attempt to strike another person. On the other hand, battery is defined as “the act of causing physical injury.” In summary, assault is the act of threatening someone with physical harm, while battery is the actual act.
The severity of Kansas City, 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 Kansas City, MO criminal defense attorneys frequently work on:
- Simple Assault: This usually involves threats of violence or minor physical contact that doesn’t result in serious injury. While it might seem less serious, a simple assault conviction can still carry significant penalties.
- Aggravated Assault: This encompasses more serious actions, such as assault with a deadly weapon or inflicting substantial bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically classified as a felony, leading to harsher penalties in Kansas City, MO.
- Domestic Assault: Charges related to 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 escalated charge where the accused allegedly used a weapon during the assault. This could involve 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 Kansas City, MO, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced Kansas City, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
Assault Lawyer Kansas City, MO: Types of Assault Charges
In Kansas City, MO and across Missouri, assault charges are categorized into four degrees. Each degree has specific criteria and penalties associated with it:
First Degree Assault in Kansas City, 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 classified as a Class B Felony, which ranges from 5 to 15 years in prison.
Second Degree Assault in Kansas City, 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.
- Injures another while driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Harms a law enforcement officer or emergency worker.
- 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 instances, it is a Class D Felony with a potential prison sentence of 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Kansas City, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Kansas City, MO occurs when an individual knowingly inflicts physical injury on another individual or recklessly causes serious injury.
- Penalties: This offense is categorized 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 Kansas City, 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 making unwanted physical contact.
- Negligently causing physical harm using 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 Kansas City, MO: Why Combs Waterkotte is the Defense You Need
Facing an assault charge is daunting, and navigating the Kansas City, 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 Kansas City, MO:
Developing a Comprehensive Defense Strategy in Kansas City, MO
Each Kansas City, 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: Investigating the prosecution’s evidence for discrepancies, mistakes, or breaches of your rights.
- Exploring Self-Defense: Arguing that your actions were taken in self-defense or in defense of another person. Additional strong defenses can include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and false accusation.
- Disputing Witness Testimony: Highlighting any potential biases or inconsistencies in the statements provided by witnesses.
- Negotiating Charges: Engaging with prosecutors to seek alternative sentencing options, or reduce or dismiss charges.
Working to Reduce Penalties in Kansas City, MO
Even if a conviction appears unavoidable, an experienced Kansas City, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can work to minimize the consequences you face. Strategies could involve:
- Negotiating for reduced charges or more lenient sentences.
- Advocating for probation, community service, diversion, or other alternatives to incarceration.
- Attempting to expunge or seal your records when possible, minimizing the long-term repercussions of a conviction.
Safeguarding Your Rights in Kansas City, MO
From the moment you’re charged in Kansas City, MO, your rights could be compromised. A skilled|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Kansas City, MO assault defense attorney will ensure that your constitutional rights are preserved throughout every stage of the legal process during investigations and court proceedings.
If you are facing an assault charge in or around Kansas City, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the leading assault lawyer in Kansas City, 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 offers expertise in the following areas for Kansas City, MO residents:
Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Kansas City, MO
Combs Waterkotte is your trusted partner for assault defense in Kansas City, MO, leveraging over 30 years of combined experience and a deep understanding of the complexities of criminal law in Kansas City, MO. Our commitment to our clients is unwavering, and we work tirelessly to make sure you receive the best possible outcome. What sets Combs Waterkotte apart:
- Client-Focused: 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 Kansas City, 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 Results: Our more than 400 reviews and track record throughout Kansas City, MO speak volumes, with numerous cases resulting in reduced charges and dismissed charges.
Reach Out to a Leading Kansas City, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you’re dealing with assault charges in Kansas City, MO, don’t wait to see what happens. Get the legal help you need right away. 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 Kansas City, MO.
Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
