Assault Lawyer in Marshall, MO. Facing an assault charge in Marshall, 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 Marshall, MO societal stigma that accompanies it.
Saline County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Saline County and Missouri.
If you’re charged with assault in Marshall, 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 Marshall, MO defense attorney.
Assault Lawyer: Understanding Marshall, 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, threatening 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 is the actual act.
Assault charges in Marshall, MO can range in severity depending on the specifics of your situation. Below is an overview of some common assault charges our knowledgeable Marshall, 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. Even though it may seem less severe, a simple assault conviction can still carry significant penalties.
- Aggravated Assault: This involves more severe offenses, such as using a deadly weapon or causing substantial bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically considered a felony, leading to much stricter consequences in Marshall, 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 often have additional complications due to the personal relationships involved.
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon: A more severe charge where the accused is alleged to have used a weapon during the assault. This can 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 Marshall, MO, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced Marshall, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.

Assault Lawyer Marshall, MO: Types of Assault Charges Explained
In Marshall, MO and across Missouri, assault charges are divided into four degrees, each with its own specific criteria and associated penalties:
First Degree Assault in Marshall, 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 physical injury results, it is classified as a Class A Felony, punishable by 10-30 years or life in prison. If no serious injury occurs, it’s a Class B Felony, which ranges from 5 to 15 years in prison.
Second Degree Assault in Marshall, MO
- Criteria: The charge of second-degree assault is applicable when someone:
- Attempts to kill or knowingly causes severe physical harm under sudden passion due to adequate cause.
- Uses a deadly weapon or dangerous object to inflict or attempt to inflict injury.
- 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 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 potential imprisonment ranging from 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Marshall, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Marshall, MO occurs when someone 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 Marshall, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and can involve:
- Attempting to cause physical injury or placing someone in apprehension of immediate physical harm.
- Recklessly causing physical harm 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 Marshall, MO: Why You Need Combs Waterkotte Fighting for You
Assault charges can be complex, and the Marshall, 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 Marshall, MO:
Crafting a Robust Defense Strategy in Marshall, 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 any infringement of your rights.
- Arguing Self-Defense: Demonstrating that you were acting in self-defense or in defense of another person. Other potential defenses can include: lack of intent, consent, and being falsely accused.
- Questioning Witness Testimony: Highlighting any biases or unreliable aspects in witness statements.
- Negotiating with the Prosecution: Engaging to secure alternative sentencing, or to reduce or dismiss the charges where possible.
Working to Reduce Penalties in Marshall, MO
Even if a conviction appears unavoidable, an experienced Marshall, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can aim to mitigate the consequences you might face. Strategies might involve:
- Seeking reduced charges or more lenient sentences.
- Negotiating 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.
Safeguarding Your Rights in Marshall, MO
From the moment charges are filed in Marshall, MO, your rights are at risk. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Marshall, MO assault defense lawyer will ensure that your constitutional rights are protected throughout the legal process in Marshall, MO. This includes:
- Protecting you from self-incrimination and unlawful search and seizure.
- Make sure you {are treated fairly during investigations and court proceedings.
- Representing you in court to build the best possible defense in Marshall, MO.
When you are accused of assault in or around Marshall, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the best assault lawyer in Marshall, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our esteemed assault defense attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Marshall and beyond:

Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Marshall, MO
Combs Waterkotte specializes in defending assault charges in Marshall, MO, leveraging more than 30 years of combined experience and a comprehensive understanding of criminal law to every case we handle. Our dedication to our clients is unmatched, and we strive to secure the best possible outcomes. What sets Combs Waterkotte apart:
- Client-First Philosophy: 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 Marshall, MO, bringing a wealth of experience to your case.
- Tenacious Defense: 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 Marshall, MO speak volumes, with numerous cases resulting in reduced charges and dismissed charges.
Reach Out to a Leading Marshall, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you’re facing assault charges in or around Marshall, MO, it’s crucial to act swiftly. 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 Marshall, MO.
Call us as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.