Assault Lawyer in Kennett, MO. Facing an assault charge in Kennett, 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 Kennett, MO societal stigma that accompanies it.
If you’re charged with assault in Kennett, 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 a knowledgeable Kennett, MO defense attorney.
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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.
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 Kennett, MO: Understanding Assault Charges
Assault is generally 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 person. Battery, on the other hand, is defined as “the act of inflicting injury.” In essence, assault involves 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 Kennett, MO. Below is a quick overview of some common assault charges our skilled Kennett, MO criminal defense attorneys frequently work on:
- 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 bring about severe consequences.
- Aggravated Assault: This includes more severe offenses, such as assault with a deadly weapon or inflicting significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is often treated as a felony, leading to harsher penalties in Kennett, 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 are often more complex due to the personal relationships involved.
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon: A more severe charge where the accused allegedly used a weapon during the assault. This could include firearms, knives, or any object used in a way that could cause serious harm.
Facing these charges or anything similar in or around Kennett, MO? You need to speak with an expert Kennett, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Give us a call now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
Dunklin County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Dunklin County and Missouri.
Assault Lawyer Kennett, MO: Types of Assault Charges Explained
In Kennett, MO and across Missouri, assault charges are divided into four degrees, each with its own specific criteria and associated penalties:
First Degree Assault in Kennett, 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. If no serious injury occurs, it’s classified as a Class B Felony, with a sentence ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison.
Second Degree Assault in Kennett, 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.
- Causes injury while intoxicated and operating a vehicle or boat.
- Physically harms a law enforcement officer or emergency personnel.
- 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 cases, it’s considered a Class D Felony with a potential prison sentence of 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Kennett, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Kennett, MO occurs when an individual knowingly causes physical injury to another individual or recklessly causes serious harm.
- Penalties: This charge is typically a Class E Felony, which can include up to 4 years in prison, fines, or probation, unless the assault was on a special victim, in which case it is a Class D Felony.
Fourth Degree Assault in Kennett, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least serious assault charge and may involve:
- Attempting to cause physical injury or placing someone in fear of immediate physical injury.
- Recklessly causing physical injury or making unwanted physical contact.
- Negligently causing physical injury with a deadly weapon.
- Penalties: Generally, this charge is a Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $2,000. However, if the offense involves a special victim, it’s upgraded to a Class E Felony, with a potential sentence of up to 4 years in prison.
Assault Lawyer Kennett, MO: Why Combs Waterkotte is the Defense You Need
Facing an assault charge is daunting, and navigating the Kennett, 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 Kennett, MO:
Developing a Comprehensive Defense Strategy in Kennett, MO
Each Kennett, 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 inconsistencies, mistakes, or any infringement of your rights.
- Proving Self-Defense: Demonstrating that you were acting in self-defense or in defense of another person. Additional strong defenses might include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and being falsely accused.
- Questioning Witness Testimony: Highlighting any potential biases or unreliable testimonies from witnesses.
- Negotiating with the Prosecution: Working with prosecutors to explore alternative sentencing options, or reduce or dismiss charges.
Striving to Lessen Penalties in Kennett, MO
Even if a conviction seems likely, a dedicated Kennett, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can work to minimize the penalties you might face. This might include:
- Seeking reduced charges or lighter sentencing.
- Advocating for probation, community service, diversion programs, or other alternatives to prison time.
- Seeking to expunge or seal records where eligible, reducing the long-term effects of a conviction.
Safeguarding Your Rights in Kennett, MO
From the moment charges are filed in Kennett, MO, your rights are at risk. A skilled|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Kennett, MO assault defense lawyer ensures that your constitutional rights are protected throughout every stage of the legal process during investigations and court proceedings.
If you are accused of assault in or around Kennett, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just hiring the leading assault lawyer in Kennett, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our experienced assault defense lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Kennett and beyond:
Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Kennett, MO
Combs Waterkotte is your trusted partner for assault defense in Kennett, MO, bringing more than 30 years of combined experience and an in-depth knowledge of criminal law to every case we handle. We are fully committed to our clients, working diligently to ensure the best outcomes possible. 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 defended hundreds of clients facing assault charges just like yours in Kennett, MO, bringing a wealth of experience to your case.
- Relentless Advocacy: We aren’t afraid to confront the prosecution head-on, safeguarding your rights and pursuing the strongest possible defense.
- Demonstrated Success: Our 350+ reviews and extensive case history in and around Kennett, MO demonstrate our ability to achieve favorable outcomes, including reduced and dismissed charges.
Reach Out to a Leading Kennett, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you’re facing assault charges in or around Kennett, MO, 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 Kennett, 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 Kennett, MO.
Call us as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
