Plattsburg, MO

Assault Lawyer in Plattsburg, MO. Being charged with assault in Plattsburg, MO is a serious matter that can dramatically impact your life. From severe penalties like incarceration, steep fines, and a permanent record, in addition to the lasting social repercussions throughout Plattsburg, MO, an assault conviction is no joke.

If you are facing an assault charge in Plattsburg, MO or anywhere in Missouri, securing the services of an experienced assault and battery lawyer can be the key to avoiding those severe consequences and maintaining your 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 Plattsburg, MO defense attorney.

Assault Lawyer in Plattsburg, MO: Understanding 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 causing physical injury.” In summary, assault is the act of threatening someone with physical harm, while battery is the actual act.

The severity of Plattsburg, MO assault charges can differ significantly based on the details of your case. Below is a quick overview of some common assault charges our knowledgeable Plattsburg, MO criminal defense attorneys frequently work on:

• Simple Assault: Often involving threats of violence or minor physical altercations that don’t result in serious injury. While it might seem less serious, a conviction for simple assault can still result in considerable penalties.
• Aggravated Assault: This includes more severe offenses, such as using a deadly weapon or causing significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is often treated as a felony, leading to more severe consequences in Plattsburg, 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 can involve firearms, knives, or any object used in a way that could cause serious harm.

Facing these charges or anything similar in or around Plattsburg, MO? You need to speak with an expert Plattsburg, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Give us a call now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.

Assault Lawyer Plattsburg, MO: Types of Assault Charges

In Plattsburg, MO and across Missouri, assault charges are divided into four degrees. Each degree is based on specific actions and carries its own set of penalties:

First Degree Assault in Plattsburg, 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 injury is inflicted, it’s considered a Class A Felony, resulting in 10-30 years or life imprisonment. Without serious injury, it’s a Class B Felony, with a sentence ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison.

Second Degree Assault in Plattsburg, 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 knowingly causes physical injury to another individual by means of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument.
  • Recklessly inflicts serious injury on 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 cases, it’s considered a Class D Felony with a potential prison sentence of 1 to 7 years.

Third Degree Assault in Plattsburg, MO

• Criteria: Third-degree assault in Plattsburg, MO occurs when someone knowingly causes physical injury to 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 Plattsburg, MO

• Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and may include:
  • Attempting to cause physical harm or placing someone in fear of immediate physical harm.
  • Recklessly causing physical injury or offensive contact.
  • Negligently causing physical injury using 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 Plattsburg, MO: Why You Need Combs Waterkotte Fighting for You

Facing an assault charge is daunting, and navigating the Plattsburg, 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 Plattsburg, MO:

Building a Strong Defense Strategy in Plattsburg, 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:

• Challenging the Evidence: Examining the prosecution’s evidence for potential inconsistencies, mistakes, or violations of your rights.
• Arguing Self-Defense: Arguing that your actions were taken in self-defense or in defense of another person. Other potential defenses might include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and being falsely accused.
• Disputing Witness Testimony: Highlighting any 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 Plattsburg, MO

Even if a conviction seems imminent, an experienced Plattsburg, MO Combs Waterkotte defense lawyer can aim to mitigate the penalties you face. This might include:

• Negotiating for reduced charges or more lenient sentencing.
• Advocating for alternatives to jail time, such as probation, community service, or diversion programs.
• Seeking to expunge or seal records where eligible, reducing the long-term effects of a conviction.

Protecting Your Rights in Plattsburg, MO

From the moment you’re charged in Plattsburg, MO, your rights could be compromised. A skilled|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Plattsburg, MO assault defense attorney will ensure that your constitutional rights are protected throughout receive equitable treatment during investigations and court proceedings.

If you are facing an assault charge in or around Plattsburg, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the leading assault lawyer in Plattsburg, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our experienced assault defense attorneys, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for Plattsburg, 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 Plattsburg, MO: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte

At Combs Waterkotte, we specialize in defending assault charges in Plattsburg, MO, bringing more than 30 years of combined experience and an in-depth understanding of criminal law to deliver exceptional results. Our commitment to our clients is unwavering, and we work tirelessly to make sure you receive the best possible outcome. Here’s what makes Combs Waterkotte stand out:

• Client-Focused: We prioritize open communication with our Plattsburg, MO clients, keeping you informed and involved every step of the way.
• Expertise: Our attorneys have defended hundreds of clients facing assault charges just like yours in Plattsburg, 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.
• Proven Track Record: Our more than 350 reviews and track record throughout Plattsburg, MO speak volumes, with numerous cases resulting in reduced charges and dismissed charges.

Reach Out to a Leading Plattsburg, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today

If you’re dealing with assault charges in Plattsburg, 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 Plattsburg, MO.

Reach out to us as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.