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.
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 experienced Marshall, MO defense attorney.
Assault Lawyer in Marshall, MO: A Guide to Assault Charges
Assault is often 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 cause physical harm. On the other hand, battery is defined as “the act of causing physical harm.” 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 Marshall, MO. Below is an overview of some common assault charges our experienced Marshall, MO criminal defense attorneys have handled:
- Simple Assault: This typically involves threats of violence or minor physical contact that doesn’t result in serious injury. While it might seem less serious, a conviction for simple assault can still carry significant penalties.
- Aggravated Assault: This involves more serious actions, like assault with a deadly weapon or causing substantial bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically considered a felony, leading to harsher consequences in Marshall, 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: A more severe charge where the accused allegedly used a weapon during the assault. This can include firearms, knives, or any object used in a manner that could cause serious injury.
Are you facing these or similar charges in the Marshall, MO area? It’s important to speak with a skilled Marshall, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Contact us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
Assault Lawyer Marshall, MO: Types of Assault Charges
In Marshall, MO and throughout Missouri, assault charges are categorized 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. 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 Marshall, MO
- Criteria: The charge of second-degree assault applies when someone:
- Attempts to kill or knowingly cause serious physical injury to another individual under the influence of sudden passion arising out of 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.
- Injures a law enforcement officer or emergency worker.
- Penalties: Assault on a law enforcement officer is classified as a Class B Felony, with penalties ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison. For other assault cases, they’re a Class D Felony and imprisonment ranges from 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Marshall, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Marshall, MO occurs when someone knowingly causes physical injury or recklessly inflicts serious injury on another another individual or recklessly causes serious harm.
- Penalties: These are classified as 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 Marshall, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least serious assault charge and may include:
- Attempting to cause physical harm or placing someone in apprehension of immediate physical injury.
- Recklessly causing physical injury or offensive physical contact.
- Negligently causing physical harm 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 Combs Waterkotte is the Defense You Need
Facing an assault charge is daunting, and navigating the Marshall, 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 Marshall, MO:
Building a Strong Defense Strategy in Marshall, MO
No two assault cases in Marshall, MO are alike. Your attorney will carefully analyze the specifics of your situation to formulate a personalized defense strategy. This may involve:
- Scrutinizing the Evidence: Carefully analyzing the prosecution’s evidence for potential inconsistencies, mistakes, or any infringement of your rights.
- Exploring Self-Defense: Arguing that your actions were taken in self-defense or in defense of another person. Additional strong defenses might include: lack of intent, consent, and being falsely accused.
- Challenging Witness Testimonies: Highlighting any potential biases or unreliable testimonies from witnesses.
- Negotiating with the Prosecution: Working to secure alternative sentencing, or to reduce or dismiss the charges where possible.
Efforts to Mitigate Penalties in Marshall, MO
Even if a conviction seems imminent, an experienced Marshall, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can work to minimize the consequences you face. This could involve:
- Pursuing reduced charges or more lenient sentences.
- Negotiating for alternatives to jail time, such as probation, community service, or diversion programs.
- Attempting to expunge or seal your records when possible, minimizing the long-term repercussions of a conviction.
Defending Your Rights in Marshall, MO
Once you are charged in Marshall, MO, your rights could be compromised. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Marshall, MO assault defense lawyer will ensure that your constitutional rights are protected throughout the legal proceedings in Marshall, MO. This involves:
- Shielding you from self-incrimination or unlawful search and seizure.
- Make sure you {are treated fairly during investigations and court proceedings.
- Representing you in court to provide the best possible defense in Marshall, MO.
When you’re facing an assault charge in or around Marshall, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just hiring the leading assault lawyer in Marshall, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable assault defense lawyers, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for Marshall, MO residents:
- DWI Administrative Hearing Lawyer
- Violent Crime Lawyer
- Drug Crimes Lawyer
- Gun Crime Lawyer
- Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
- Homicide Lawyer
- Rape Defense Lawyer
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 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 a proven track record, successfully defending hundreds of clients in assault cases similar to yours in Marshall, MO.
- Relentless Advocacy: We are not afraid to challenge the prosecution and fight for your rights in and out of the courtroom.
- Demonstrated Success: With over 350 positive reviews and numerous case victories in Marshall, MO and beyond, our history of success is clear, with many clients seeing reduced or dismissed charges.
Contact the Top Marshall, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Right Now
If you’re dealing with assault charges in the Marshall, MO area, 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 Marshall, 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 Marshall, MO.
Reach out to us as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.