Domestic violence defense attorneys in Chesterfield, MO. Have you found yourself facing accusations of domestic violence in the Chesterfield, MO area? These are serious allegations that carry significant consequences, potentially resulting in the loss of employment, custody of your children, or even your including the possibility of losing your job, losing custody of your children, or even your VA benefits if you have served your country.
If you are confronting domestic violence charges anywhere in or around Chesterfield, MO, act quickly to safeguard your freedom, reputation, and future. Give the Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys a call immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, no-strings-attached case review. During this confidential meeting, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss the particulars of your case directly with one of our experienced attorneys.
Combs Waterkotte is an award-winning criminal defense law firm, home to compassionate and tenacious defense lawyers who have defended the innocence of clients throughout the Chesterfield, MO area for over 40 years. Our exceptional record and over 250 reviews speaks for itself.
What You Should Do If Accused of Domestic Violence in Chesterfield, MO
If you have been accused of or arrested for domestic violence in Chesterfield, 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 Chesterfield, MO can be emotionally charged and overwhelming. However, maintaining a composed demeanor is crucial to prevent escalating the situation any further.
- Contact the Combs Waterkotte Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys: Consult with a team of experienced domestic violence defense attorneys as soon as possible. Our will provide you with legal guidance, safeguard your rights, future, and reputation, and advocate on your behalf throughout the legal process in Chesterfield, MO.
- Assert Your Innocence: Refrain from making any statements to Chesterfield, MO law enforcement or admissions of guilt without first consulting your domestic violence defense attorneys. This is vital 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. While your Chesterfield, MO domestic violence defense attorneys will keep you informed, ensure open lines of communication to avoid missing any crucial updates. Also, be sure to ask questions if you have any uncertainties or concerns.
Scenarios When You Require Assistance From Domestic Violence Attorneys in Chesterfield, MO
Domestic violence encompasses a range of what are considered abusive behaviors by one family or household member against another. In the Chesterfield, MO area, instances of domestic violence may involve:
- Physical Violence: Considered any intentional physical harm or injury inflicted upon a family or household member. This includes actions such as hitting, kicking, hitting, strangling, or weapon use.
- Emotional Abuse: Psychological manipulation, insults, degradation, verbal threats, intimidation, isolation, or controlling behavior that undermines the victim’s self-esteem and autonomy.
- Sexual Misconduct: 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.
- Economic Control: Exercising control over financial resources, withholding access to funds or assets, sabotaging employment opportunities, or exploiting financial dependency to assert dominance.
- Child Abuse: Any form of mistreatment, neglect, harm, or abandonment inflicted upon a child by you as a parent, guardian, or caregiver within the familial or household context.
St. Louis County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in St. Louis County and Missouri.
Understanding the Potential Consequences of Domestic Violence in Chesterfield, MO
Penalties for domestic violence in and around Chesterfield, MO vary greatly depending on the severity of the offense, the circumstances surrounding the incident, and any relevant 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: Defined under Missouri Revised Statute § 565.072, first degree domestic violence includes any attempts to cause or knowingly inflict 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. .
- Second Degree Domestic Assault: This degree of domestic assault includes any attempt to instrument,cause or knowingly cause serious injury with a deadly weapon, dangerous instrument, or via strangulation. Second degree domestic assault is a class C felony, which carries a maximum sentence of 7 years in prison.
- Third Degree Domestic Assault: As outlined in RSMo § 565.074, third degree domestic assault is causing physical injury, knowingly inflicting physical pain or illness upon a household or domestic member, or negligently endangering or isolating them. This offense constitutes a class E felony, carrying a maximum sentence of 4 years in prison.
- Fourth Degree Domestic Assault: Under RSMo § 565.076, this degree of assault includes any attempt to cause or negligently cause physical injury, pain, or illness to a household or family member. Fourth degree domestic assault constitutes a class A misdemeanor, carrying a maximum sentence of 1 year imprisonment. However, if there is a prior domestic assault conviction, it elevates to a class E felony.
It’s crucial to bear in mind that the intricacies of each case can vary substantially. Call the Chesterfield, MO domestic violence defense attorneys today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Why is it Critical to Hire a Skilled Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Chesterfield, MO?
The Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys possess extensive knowledge and experience in navigating the Chesterfield, 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 advantages:
- Legal Expertise: Domestic violence cases in Chesterfield, 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 skilled Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense lawyer boasts a profound understanding of the local Chesterfield, 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 specifically to the circumstances 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.
- Protection of Your Rights: An experienced and knowledgeable Chesterfield, MO domestic violence defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte will ensure that your constitutional rights are safeguarded throughout your legal process. This includes your right to a fair and speedy trial, the right to remain silent, and the right to question witnesses against you. Your lawyer will diligently work to prevent any violations of your rights by law enforcement or prosecutors near Chesterfield, MO.
- Familiarity with Local Chesterfield, MO Court Procedures: An attorney well-versed in the Chesterfield, MO court system has invaluable insights into local judges, prosecutors, and basic, day-to-day courtroom procedures. This knowledge can be vital in constructing an effective defense strategy and achieving a favorable outcome.
- Minimizing Consequences: A skilled lawyer will advocate on your behalf to minimize the potential repercussions of Chesterfield, 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 prioritizes your best interests and strives to attain the most favorable outcome given the unique circumstances of your case. Call our domestic violence defense attorneys now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Combs Waterkotte is a top criminal defense law firm based in St. Louis. In addition to expert legal representation from our skilled Chesterfield, MO domestic violence defense lawyers, we provide assistance in the following areas for clients in Chesterfield and anywhere in Missouri:
Reach Out to the Top Chesterfield, MO Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys at Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing domestic violence allegations in the Chesterfield, MO area, it’s imperative to consult with a seasoned attorney capable of offering tailored guidance and representation. 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.
Call the Chesterfield, MO domestic violence defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.