Assault Lawyer in Rolla, MO. Facing an assault charge in Rolla, 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 Rolla, MO societal stigma that accompanies it.
If you’re charged with assault in Rolla, MO or elsewhere in Missouri, having a skilled assault and battery lawyer on your side could make all the difference between jail and freedom.
Get in touch with Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation to go over the specifics of your case with an experienced Rolla, MO defense attorney.
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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 Rolla, MO: A Guide to Assault Charges
Assault is often defined as “any deliberate act that causes another individual to fear imminent physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, aggressive gestures, and any attempt to cause physical harm. Battery, on the other hand, is defined as “the act of causing physical injury.” In short, assault is the threat of harm, while battery is the actual act.
Assault charges in Rolla, MO can range in severity depending on the specifics of your situation. Here’s a brief overview of some common assault charges our experienced Rolla, MO criminal defense attorneys frequently deal with:
- 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 carry significant penalties.
- Aggravated Assault: This involves more severe actions, such as assault with a deadly weapon or causing substantial bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically considered a felony, leading to much stricter consequences in Rolla, MO.
- Domestic Assault: Charges related to violence or threats against a spouse, partner, family member, or someone within the same household. Domestic assault cases often have additional complications due to the close personal relationships involved.
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon: An escalated charge where the accused allegedly used a weapon during the assault. This could involve firearms, knives, or any object used in a manner that could cause serious injury.
Are you facing these or similar charges in the Rolla, MO area? It’s important to speak with a skilled Rolla, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Contact us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
Phelps County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Phelps County and Missouri.
Assault Lawyer Rolla, MO: Types of Assault Charges
In Rolla, MO and across Missouri, assault charges are divided into four degrees, each with its own specific criteria and associated penalties:
First Degree Assault in Rolla, 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. If no serious injury occurs, it’s classified as a Class B Felony, which carries a prison sentence of 5 to 15 years.
Second Degree Assault in Rolla, 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 severe physical harm to someone else.
- Injures another while driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- 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 instances, it is a Class D Felony and imprisonment ranges from 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Rolla, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Rolla, 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 Rolla, 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 injury.
- Recklessly causing physical injury or making unwanted physical contact.
- Negligently causing physical harm 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: Why You Need Combs Waterkotte on Your Side in Rolla, MO
Assault charges can be complex, and the Rolla, 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 Rolla, MO:
Building a Strong Defense Strategy in Rolla, 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:
- Evaluating the Evidence: Carefully analyzing the prosecution’s evidence for inconsistencies, errors, or violations of your rights.
- Arguing Self-Defense: Arguing that your actions were taken in self-defense or in defense of another person. Other strong defenses can include: lack of intent, mutual consent, and false accusation.
- Challenging Witness Testimonies: Highlighting any biases or inconsistencies in the statements provided by witnesses.
- Negotiating Charges: Working with prosecutors to seek alternative sentencing options, or reduce or dismiss charges.
Efforts to Mitigate Penalties in Rolla, MO
Even if a conviction seems imminent, a dedicated Rolla, MO Combs Waterkotte defense lawyer can focus on reducing the penalties you might face. Strategies might include:
- Pursuing reduced charges or more lenient sentences.
- 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 Rolla, MO
From the moment charges are filed in Rolla, MO, your rights are in jeopardy. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Rolla, MO assault defense attorney ensures that your constitutional rights are protected throughout every stage of the legal process during investigations and court proceedings.
When you’re accused of assault in or around Rolla, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the leading assault lawyer in Rolla, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to criminal defense from our esteemed assault defense lawyers, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for Rolla, MO residents:
Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Rolla, MO
Combs Waterkotte specializes in defending assault charges in Rolla, MO, bringing over 30 years of combined experience and an in-depth knowledge 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-Centered Approach: We maintain clear and consistent communication with our Rolla, MO clients, ensuring you’re informed and engaged throughout the entire process.
- Expertise: Our attorneys have defended hundreds of clients facing assault charges just like yours in Rolla, MO, bringing a wealth of experience to your case.
- Tenacious Defense: We are not afraid to challenge the prosecution and fight for your rights in and out of the courtroom.
- Proven Results: Our 350+ reviews and extensive case history in and around Rolla, MO demonstrate our ability to achieve favorable outcomes, including reduced and dismissed charges.
Reach Out to a Leading Rolla, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today
If you’re dealing with assault charges in or around Rolla, MO, don’t wait to see what happens. Get the legal help you need right away. 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 Rolla, 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 Rolla, MO.
Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
