Assault Lawyer in Union, MO. Facing an assault charge in Union, 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 Union, MO societal stigma that accompanies it.
Franklin County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Franklin County and Missouri.
If you are facing an assault charge in Union, 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.
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 expert Union, MO defense attorney.
Assault Lawyer: Understanding Union, MO Assault Charges
Assault is generally defined as “any intentional act that causes another individual to fear 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 harm.” In short, assault is the act of threatening someone with physical harm, while battery involves the actual physical act.
Assault charges can vary widely in severity depending on the circumstances of your case in Union, MO. Below is a quick overview of some common assault charges our skilled criminal defense attorneys in Union, MO frequently work on:
- 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 result in considerable penalties.
- Aggravated Assault: This involves more serious offenses, like assault with a deadly weapon or inflicting significant bodily harm. Aggravated assault is often treated as a felony, leading to harsher consequences in Union, MO.
- Domestic Assault: Charges related to 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 escalated 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.
Facing these charges or anything similar in or around Union, MO? You need to speak with an expert Union, MO assault attorney at Combs Waterkotte. Give us a call now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
Assault Lawyer Union, MO: Types of Assault Charges
In Union, MO and throughout Missouri, assault charges are divided into four degrees, each with its own specific criteria and associated penalties:
First Degree Assault in Union, MO
- Criteria: First-degree assault involves an intentional attempt to kill another individual or knowingly causing or attempting to cause serious physical harm to someone.
- 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 classified as a Class B Felony, which ranges from 5 to 15 years in prison.
Second Degree Assault in Union, MO
- Criteria: The charge of second-degree assault is applicable 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 personnel.
- 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 instances, it is a Class D Felony with a potential prison sentence of 1 to 7 years.
Third Degree Assault in Union, MO
- Criteria: Third-degree assault in Union, MO occurs when an individual knowingly inflicts physical injury on another individual or recklessly causes serious injury.
- Penalties: This offense is categorized 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 Union, MO
- Criteria: Fourth-degree assault is the least severe assault charge and can involve:
- Attempting to cause physical harm 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 charge is generally a Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $2,000. However, if a special victim is involved, it escalates to a Class E Felony, carrying up to 4 years in prison.
Assault Lawyer Union, MO: Why Combs Waterkotte is the Defense You Need
An assault charge is serious, and the legal landscape in Union, MO can be intimidating. It’s essential to have an expert assault defense lawyer by your side to guide you through this complex process. Here’s exactly how Combs Waterkotte can support you in Union, MO:
Crafting a Robust Defense Strategy in Union, MO
Each Union, MO assault case comes with its own set of complexities. Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation into your case to develop a tailored assault defense strategy that might include:
- Evaluating the Evidence: Examining the prosecution’s evidence for potential inconsistencies, errors, or any infringement of your rights.
- Exploring Self-Defense: Demonstrating that you were acting in self-defense or in defense of another person. Other strong defenses can include: lack of intent, consent, and being falsely accused.
- Disputing Witness Testimony: Highlighting any potential biases or inconsistencies in the statements provided by witnesses.
- Negotiating with the Prosecution: Working to secure alternative sentencing, or to reduce or dismiss the charges where possible.
Working to Reduce Penalties in Union, MO
Even if a conviction seems likely, a dedicated Union, MO Combs Waterkotte defense lawyer can focus on reducing the penalties you might face. This could involve:
- Seeking reduced charges or more lenient sentences.
- Advocating for probation, community service, diversion programs, or other alternatives to incarceration.
- Attempting to expunge or seal your records when possible, minimizing the long-term repercussions of a conviction.
Defending Your Rights in Union, MO
From the moment you’re charged in Union, MO, your rights are in jeopardy. An expert|An experienced} Combs Waterkotte Union, MO assault defense lawyer will ensure that your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process in Union, MO. This includes:
- Defending you against self-incrimination and unlawful search and seizure.
- Make sure you {are treated fairly throughout investigations and court proceedings.
- Providing robust courtroom representation to secure the best defense on your behalf in Union, MO.
When you are accused of assault in or around Union, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just hiring the leading assault lawyer in Union, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with criminal defense from our knowledgeable assault defense attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Union and beyond:
Assault Lawyer: Why Choose Combs Waterkotte in Union, MO
Combs Waterkotte specializes in defending assault charges in Union, 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-Centered Approach: We prioritize open communication with our Union, MO clients, keeping you informed and involved every step of the way.
- Expertise: Our legal team has a proven track record, successfully defending hundreds of clients in assault cases similar to yours in Union, MO.
- Relentless Advocacy: We are not afraid to challenge the prosecution and fight for your rights in and out of the courtroom.
- Demonstrated Success: Our more than 350 reviews and track record throughout Union, MO speak volumes, with numerous cases resulting in reduced charges and dismissed charges.
Contact the Top Union, MO Assault Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Right Now
If you’re confronted with assault charges in or around Union, 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 Union, MO.
Reach out to us today at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.
