Domestic violence defense attorneys in Des Peres, MO. Have you been arrested for or charged with domestic violence in the Des Peres, MO area? These are grave charges that can have substantial 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’ve served your country.
If you are confronting domestic violence allegations anywhere in or around Des Peres, MO, act quickly to safeguard your freedom, reputation, and future. Call the Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys 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, renowned for its compassionate and resolute defense lawyers who have vigorously advocated for the innocence of clients in Des Peres, MO and across Missouri for over 40 years. Our exceptional record and over 250 reviews stand as testament to our unwavering dedication to our clients’ rights and freedoms.
What You Should Do If Accused of Domestic Violence in Des Peres, MO
If you have been accused of or arrested for domestic violence anywhere near Des Peres, MO, it’s essential to take immediate steps to safeguard your rights and navigate the legal process effectively. Here’s what you should do:
- Stay Calm: Confronting allegations of domestic violence in the Des Peres, MO area can be emotionally charged and overwhelming. It’s crucial to remain calm and composed to avoid escalating the situation any further.
- Consult With 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, protect your rights, reputation, and future, and provide resolute advocacy throughout the Des Peres, MO legal process.
- Assert and Maintain Your Innocence: Refrain from making any statements to Des Peres, 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: Stay in-the-know about the progress of your case and any developments in the legal proceedings. While your Des Peres, MO domestic violence defense attorneys will keep you informed, ensure open lines of communication to avoid missing any critical updates. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you have any uncertainties or concerns.
Scenarios When You Require Assistance From Domestic Violence Attorneys in Des Peres, MO
Domestic violence encompasses a range of what are considered abusive behaviors by one family or household member against another. In the Des Peres, MO area, instances of domestic violence may involve:
- Physical Violence: Considered any intentional physical harm or injury inflicted upon a family or household member. Includes hitting, kicking, punching, strangling, or weapon use.
- Emotional Abuse: Psychological manipulation, insults, degradation, verbal threats, coercion, isolation, or controlling behavior that undermines the victim’s self-esteem and autonomy.
- Sexual Assault: Nonconsensual sexual contact or activity, including 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: Controlling or withholding financial resources, withholding access to money or assets, obstructing employment opportunities, or exploiting economic dependence to exert power and control.
- 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.
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 Des Peres, MO
Penalties for domestic violence in and around Des Peres, MO vary greatly depending on the gravity 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 encompasses attempts to cause or knowingly inflict serious physical injury. This offense is classified as a class B felony, unless it results in severe injury, in which case it becomes 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 tier 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 a class C felony, which carries a maximum sentence of 7 years imprisonment.
- Third Degree Domestic Assault: According to RSMo § 565.074, third degree domestic assault involves 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 offense constitutes a class E felony, carrying a maximum sentence of 4 years imprisonment.
- 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 is 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 important to remember that the specifics of each case can vary drastically. Give the Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys in Des Peres, MO a call today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Why is it Crucial to Hire a Skilled Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Des Peres, MO?
The Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys possess extensive knowledge and experience in the Des Peres, 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 Des Peres, MO can entail a myriad of complexities involving intricate statutes, rules of evidence, and court procedures. Opting to navigate this path solo is not suggested. A proficient Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense lawyer boasts a profound understanding of the local Des Peres, MO and state domestic violence laws and the criminal justice system.
- Strategic Defense: A skilled defense attorney will develop 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 could include challenging witness credibility, contesting evidence, or negotiating for reduced charges or penalties.
- Protection of Your Rights: An adept and skilled Des Peres, 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 confront witnesses against you. Your lawyer will work to prevent any violations of your rights by law enforcement or prosecutors near Des Peres, MO.
- Knowledge of Local Des Peres, MO Court Procedures: An attorney well-versed in the Des Peres, MO court system has invaluable insights into local judges, prosecutors, and routine courtroom procedures. This can be vital in constructing an effective defense strategy and achieving a favorable resolution.
- Minimizing Consequences: A proficient attorney will advocate on your behalf to minimize the potential consequences of domestic violence charges in Des Peres, MO. This may involve pursuing alternative sentencing options, such as diversion programs or probation, in lieu of incarceration. 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 leading criminal defense law firm based in St. Louis. Along with expert legal representation from our skilled Des Peres, MO domestic violence defense lawyers, we provide help in the following practice areas for clients in Des Peres and anywhere in Missouri:
Reach Out to the Top Des Peres, MO Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys at Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing domestic violence charges in the Des Peres, MO vicinity, it’s crucial 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 professionals who are as committed to your case as you are. You need the best possible balance of compassion, aggression, and expertise on your side.
Contact the Des Peres, MO domestic violence defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.