Assault Lawyer Kennett, MO

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 an expert Kennett, MO defense attorney.

Assault Lawyer: Understanding Kennett, MO Assault Charges

Assault is often defined as “any deliberate act that causes another person to fear imminent physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, threatening gestures, and any attempt to cause physical harm. On the other hand, battery 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 criminal defense attorneys in Kennett, MO 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 conviction for simple assault can still result in considerable penalties.
• Aggravated Assault: This encompasses more serious actions, like assault with a deadly weapon or inflicting significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically classified as a felony, leading to much stricter penalties in Kennett, 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 personal relationships involved.
• Assault with a Deadly Weapon: An enhanced 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 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.

Assault Lawyer Kennett, MO: Types of Assault Charges Explained

In Kennett, 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 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. Without serious injury, it’s classified as a Class B Felony, which carries a prison sentence of 5 to 15 years.

Second Degree Assault in Kennett, 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 intentionally inflicts injury using a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument.
  • Recklessly causes serious physical injury to another individual.
  • Injures another while driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Injures a law enforcement officer or emergency responder.
• 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 and imprisonment ranges from 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: 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 Kennett, MO

• Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and can include:
  • 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: 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 Kennett, MO: Why Combs Waterkotte is the Defense You Need

Assault charges can be complex, and the Kennett, 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 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: Proving that your actions were in self-defense or in defense of others. Other strong defenses can include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and being falsely accused.
• Challenging Witness Testimonies: 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.

Working to Reduce Penalties in Kennett, MO

Even if a conviction appears unavoidable, a dedicated Kennett, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can work to minimize the consequences you face. This could involve:

• Pursuing reduced charges or more lenient sentencing.
• Advocating for probation, community service, diversion, or other alternatives to prison time.
• Attempting to expunge or seal your records when possible, minimizing the long-term repercussions of a conviction.

Protecting Your Rights in Kennett, MO

Once you are charged 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 upheld throughout the legal process in Kennett, MO. This includes:

• Protecting you from self-incrimination and unlawful search and seizure.
• Make sure you {are treated fairly throughout investigations and court proceedings.
• Providing robust courtroom representation to secure the best defense on your behalf in Kennett, MO.

When you are facing an assault charge in or around Kennett, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the best assault lawyer in Kennett, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our knowledgeable assault defense attorneys, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for Kennett, MO residents:

Assault Lawyer Kennett, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte

Combs Waterkotte is your trusted partner for assault defense in Kennett, MO, bringing over three decades of experience and a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of criminal law in Kennett, 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 maintain clear and consistent communication with our Kennett, MO clients, ensuring you’re informed and engaged throughout the entire process.
• Expertise: Our attorneys have successfully defended hundreds of clients against assault charges in cases just like yours in Kennett, MO.
• Relentless Advocacy: We aren’t afraid to confront the prosecution head-on, safeguarding your rights and pursuing the strongest possible defense.
• Proven Track Record: Our more than 400 reviews and track record throughout Kennett, MO speak volumes, with numerous cases resulting in reduced charges and dismissed charges.

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

If you’re dealing with 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 today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.