Domestic violence defense attorneys in Arnold, MO. Have you found yourself facing accusations of domestic violence in Arnold, MO? These are grave charges that can have substantial consequences, losing VA benefits if you have served your country.
If you are facing domestic violence allegations anywhere in or around Arnold, MO, act quickly to protect your freedom, reputation, and future. Give the Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys a call as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a free, no-strings-attached consultation where you can discuss the specifics of your case one-on-one with an experienced attorney.
Combs Waterkotte is an award-winning criminal defense law firm, home to compassionate and tenacious defense lawyers who have vigorously advocated for the innocence of clients throughout the Arnold, MO area for over four decades. Our unparalleled track record and over 250 reviews speaks for itself.
What You Should Do If Accused of Domestic Violence in Arnold, MO
If you have been accused of or arrested for domestic violence anywhere near Arnold, MO, it’s imperative to take immediate steps to safeguard your rights and navigate the legal process effectively. Here are the steps you should take:
- Stay Calm: Facing these allegations in the Arnold, MO area can be emotionally charged and overwhelming. It’s crucial to remain calm and composed to avoid escalating the situation any further.
- Contact the Combs Waterkotte Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys: Waste no time in reaching out to the experienced domestic violence defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte. Our adept legal team will provide you with legal guidance, safeguard your rights, future, and reputation, and advocate on your behalf throughout the Arnold, MO legal process.
- Assert and Maintain Your Innocence: Refrain from making any statements to Arnold, MO law enforcement or admissions of guilt without first consulting your domestic violence defense attorneys. This is essential to avoid self-incrimination and to protect your legal rights.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of the developments in your case and the progress of legal proceedings. Your Arnold, MO domestic violence defense attorneys will obviously keep you in the loop, but be sure to keep all lines of communication open so as to not miss anything important. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you have any uncertainties or concerns.
Situations When You Need the Help of Domestic Violence Attorneys in Arnold, MO
Domestic violence encompasses a spectrum of behaviors recognized as abusive within familial or household settings. In the Arnold, MO area, instances of domestic violence may involve:
- Physical Violence: Any deliberate act causing bodily harm or injury to a family or household member. This includes actions such as hitting, kicking, hitting, strangling, or weapon use.
- Emotional Abuse: Tactics such as psychological manipulation, insults, humiliation, verbal threats, intimidation, isolation, or controlling behavior that undermines the victim’s self-worth and autonomy.
- Sexual Assault: Nonconsensual sexual contact or activity, encompassing offenses such as rape, coerced sexual acts, and sexual harassment within an intimate relationship.
- Stalking: Persistent and unwanted monitoring, surveillance, following, or harassment that causes fear, anxiety, or emotional distress.
- Financial Domination: Exercising control over financial resources, preventing access to money or assets, obstructing employment opportunities, or exploiting economic dependence to assert dominance.
- Child Abuse: Any form of maltreatment, abuse, neglect, harm, or abandonment inflicted upon a child by you as a parent, guardian, or caregiver within the familial or household context.
Jefferson County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Jefferson County and Missouri.
What are the Possible Penalties For Domestic Violence in the Arnold, MO Area?
The repercussions of domestic violence in and around Arnold, MO vary greatly depending on the severity of the offense, the circumstances surrounding the incident, and any prior criminal history. Domestic violence charges can result in criminal and civil consequences, including fines, probation, protective orders, pain and suffering, medical expenses, counseling/treatment programs, and incarceration.
Missouri law breaks domestic assault charges into the following four degrees:
- First Degree Domestic Assault: Under Missouri Revised Statute § 565.072, first degree domestic violence includes any attempts to kill or knowingly cause, or attempt to cause, serious physical injury. This offense is classified as a class B felony, unless you inflict serious injury on the individual, in which case it is a class A felony. A class B felony carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, while the class A felony maximum is life in prison.
- Second Degree Domestic Assault: This degree of domestic assault includes any endeavor to inflict serious injury knowingly, utilizing a deadly weapon, dangerous instrument, or via strangulation. Second degree domestic assault is categorized as a class C felony, which carries a maximum sentence of 7 years in prison.
- Third Degree Domestic Assault: According to RSMo § 565.074, third degree domestic assault is causing physical injury or knowingly causing physical pain or illness to a household or domestic member, or knowingly putting them in harm’s way or isolating them through negligent behavior. This is a class E felony, carrying a maximum sentence of 4 years imprisonment.
- Fourth Degree Domestic Assault: According to RSMo § 565.076, this level of assault encompasses any attempt to cause or negligently cause physical injury, pain, or illness to any member of your household or family. Fourth degree domestic assault constitutes a class A misdemeanor, carrying a maximum sentence of 1 year in prison, unless you have a prior conviction of domestic assault, in which case it would be a class E felony.
It’s crucial to bear in mind that the specifics of each case can vary substantially. Give the Arnold, MO domestic violence defense attorneys a call today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Why is it Critical to Hire a Skilled Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Arnold, MO?
The Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys possess extensive knowledge and experience in navigating the Arnold, MO legal process. You need these types of lawyers on your side for the best possible outcome in your case. After hiring one, you get the following benefits:
- Legal Expertise: Domestic violence cases in Arnold, MO can bring on an array of complexities that could involve intricate statutes, rules of evidence, and court procedures. Going at it alone is not suggested. A proficient Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense lawyer has a deep understanding of the local Arnold, MO and state domestic violence laws, as well as and the criminal justice system.
- Strategic Defense: A skilled defense attorney will craft a strategic defense tailored to the specifics of your case. The Combs Waterkotte legal team will conduct a thorough investigation, gather evidence, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. This may involve challenging witness credibility, contesting evidence, or negotiating for reduced charges or penalties.
- Protecting Your Rights: An experienced and knowledgeable Arnold, MO domestic violence defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte makes sure that your constitutional rights are safeguarded throughout the legal proceedings. This includes your right to a fair and speedy trial, the right to remain silent, and the right to question witnesses against you. Your attorney will diligently work to prevent any infringements on your rights by law enforcement or prosecutors near Arnold, MO.
- Familiarity with Local Arnold, MO Court Procedures: A defense attorney familiar with the Arnold, MO court system possesses valuable insights into local judges, prosecutors, and routine courtroom procedures. This knowledge can be pivotal in constructing an effective defense strategy and achieving a favorable resolution.
- Minimization of Consequences: A proficient lawyer will advocate on your behalf to minimize the potential consequences of Arnold, MO domestic violence charges. This could include pursuing alternative sentencing options, such as diversion programs or probation, rather than jail time. Your Combs Waterkotte lawyer always has your best interests in mind and will strive to get you the best possible outcome given the specific circumstances of your case. Call our domestic violence defense attorneys right now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Combs Waterkotte is a top criminal defense law firm based in St. Louis. Along with expert legal representation from our skilled Arnold, MO domestic violence defense attorneys, we provide assistance in the following areas for clients in Arnold and anywhere in Missouri:
Reach Out to the Top Arnold, MO Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys at Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing domestic violence allegations in the Arnold, MO area, it’s imperative to consult with a qualified attorney who can provide guidance and representation tailored to your specific situation. Your freedom and reputation are on the line, underscoring the importance of retaining legal experts who are as committed to your case as you are. You deserve a legal team that embodies a perfect blend of empathy, tenacity, and expertise.
Contact the Arnold, MO domestic violence defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.