Assault Lawyer in Shelby County, MO. Facing an assault charge in Shelby County, 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 Shelby County, MO societal stigma that accompanies it.
If you’re facing assault charges anywhere in the Shelby County, MO area or across Missouri, having an experienced assault and battery lawyer by your side can be the difference between staring down those significant penalties 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 a knowledgeable Shelby County, 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 Shelby County, MO: Understanding Assault Charges
Assault is generally defined as “any intentional act that causes another individual to fear imminent physical harm.” This can include verbal or physical threats, threatening gestures, and any attempt to strike another person. 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 involves the actual physical act.
The severity of Shelby County, MO assault charges can differ significantly based on the details of your case. Here’s a brief overview of some common assault charges our knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys in Shelby County, MO frequently work on:
- Simple Assault: This usually 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 bring about severe consequences.
- Aggravated Assault: This involves more serious offenses, such as assault with a deadly weapon or causing significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is typically classified as a felony, leading to more severe consequences in Shelby County, MO.
- Domestic Assault: Charges that involve 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 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 manner that could cause serious injury.
If you’re facing these charges or anything similar in or around Shelby County, MO, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced Shelby County, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
Shelby County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Shelby County and Missouri.
Assault Lawyer: Types of Assault Charges in Shelby County, MO
In Shelby County, MO and throughout Missouri, assault charges are categorized into four degrees. Each degree is based on specific actions and carries its own set of penalties:
First Degree Assault in Shelby County, 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 results, it’s classified as a Class B Felony, which ranges from 5 to 15 years in prison.
Second Degree Assault in Shelby County, 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 causes severe physical harm to someone else.
- Causes injury while driving or boating under the influence.
- 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 a potential prison sentence of 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Shelby County, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Shelby County, MO occurs when someone knowingly causes physical injury to another individual or recklessly causes serious harm.
- Penalties: These are classified as a Class E Felony, which can include up to 4 years in prison, fines, or probation, unless the assault was on a special victim, in which case it is a Class D Felony.
Fourth Degree Assault in Shelby County, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and may involve:
- 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 using 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 Shelby County, MO: Why Combs Waterkotte is the Defense You Need
Assault charges can be complex, and the Shelby County, 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 Shelby County, MO:
Building a Strong Defense Strategy in Shelby County, 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: Examining the prosecution’s evidence for discrepancies, errors, or violations of your rights.
- Arguing Self-Defense: Proving that your actions were in self-defense or in defense of another person. Additional strong defenses can include: lack of intent, consent, and being falsely accused.
- Questioning Witness Testimony: Identifying potential biases or unreliable testimonies from witnesses.
- Negotiating Charges: Engaging with prosecutors to explore alternative sentencing options, or reduce or dismiss charges.
Efforts to Mitigate Penalties in Shelby County, MO
Even if a conviction seems imminent, a dedicated Shelby County, MO Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can aim to mitigate the penalties you face. Strategies could include:
- Seeking reduced charges or lighter sentencing.
- Negotiating 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.
Defending Your Rights in Shelby County, MO
From the moment charges are filed in Shelby County, MO, your rights could be compromised. A skilled|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Shelby County, MO assault defense attorney ensures that your constitutional rights are preserved throughout receive equitable treatment during investigations and court proceedings.
When you are accused of assault in or around Shelby County, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the leading assault lawyer in Shelby County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable assault defense attorneys, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Shelby County and beyond:
Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Shelby County, MO
Combs Waterkotte is your trusted partner for assault defense in Shelby County, MO, bringing over 30 years of combined experience and a deep understanding of the complexities of criminal law in Shelby County, MO. Our commitment to our clients is unwavering, and we work tirelessly to make sure you receive the best possible outcome. Here’s why Combs Waterkotte is the right choice:
- Client-Focused: We maintain clear and consistent communication with our Shelby County, MO clients, ensuring you’re informed and engaged throughout the entire process.
- Expertise: Our legal team has defended hundreds of clients facing assault charges just like yours in Shelby County, MO, bringing a wealth of experience to your case.
- Tenacious Defense: 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 Shelby County, MO speak volumes, with numerous cases resulting in reduced charges and dismissed charges.
Contact the Top Shelby County, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Right Now
If you’re dealing with assault charges in or around Shelby County, 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 Shelby County, MO.
Call us immediately at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.
