Domestic violence defense attorneys in Ferguson, MO. Have you been arrested for or charged with domestic violence in Ferguson, MO? These are serious allegations 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’re facing domestic violence allegations anywhere in or around Ferguson, MO, it’s imperative to take swift action 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, renowned for its compassionate and resolute defense lawyers who have vigorously advocated for the innocence of clients throughout the Ferguson, MO area for over four decades. Our unparalleled track record and over 250 reviews stand as testament to our unwavering dedication to our clients’ rights and freedoms.
Legal Videos

What to Do When Accused of Domestic Violence in Missouri
This legal video covers a commonly asked question regarding "What Should I Do When Accused of Domestic Violence?" and how Combs Waterkotte can help you with your domestic violence charge in the …

What Happens During a Domestic Violence Investigation?
This legal video covers a commonly asked question regarding "What Happens During a Domestic Violence Investigation in Missouri?" and how Combs Waterkotte can help you with your domestic violence …

What Are My Rights if Accused of Domestic Violence?
This domestic violence legal video covers a commonly asked question regarding "How Can I Get Domestic Violence Charges Dropped?" and how Combs Waterkotte can help you with your domestic violence …

Does Emotional Abuse Count as Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence cases can significantly influence various aspects of family law, especially child custody arrangements. When such charges arise, they often lead to complex legal challenges and …

How Can I Get Domestic Violence Charges Dropped?
Domestic violence cases can significantly influence various aspects of family law, especially child custody arrangements. When such charges arise, they often lead to complex legal challenges and …

Can a Domestic Violence Charge Affect Child Custody?
Domestic violence cases can significantly influence various aspects of family law, especially child custody arrangements. When such charges arise, they often lead to complex legal challenges and …
Essential Steps to Take When Accused of Domestic Violence in Ferguson, MO
Should you find yourself accused of or arrested for domestic violence in Ferguson, MO, it’s imperative to promptly take action to protect your rights and navigate the legal process effectively. Here are the steps you should take:
- Stay Calm: Facing these allegations in Ferguson, MO can be daunting and emotional. However, maintaining a composed demeanor is crucial to prevent escalating the situation any further.
- Consult With 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 offer expert guidance, safeguard your rights, reputation, and future, and advocate on your behalf throughout the Ferguson, MO legal process.
- Assert Your Innocence: Assert your innocence and refrain from making any statements to Ferguson, MO law enforcement or admissions of guilt without consulting your domestic violence defense attorneys. This is essential 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 Ferguson, 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 concerns or uncertainties.

Situations When You Need the Help of Domestic Violence Attorneys in Ferguson, MO
Domestic violence encompasses a spectrum of behaviors recognized as abusive within familial or household settings. In Ferguson, MO, instances of domestic violence could include:
- 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, humiliation, verbal threats, intimidation, isolation, or exerting control that undermines the victim’s self-worth 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: Exercising control over financial resources, preventing access to funds or assets, sabotaging 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 family or household.
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 Ferguson, MO
The repercussions of domestic violence in and around Ferguson, MO can vary significantly based on factors like the gravity of the offense, the surrounding circumstances, and any relevant criminal history. Convictions for domestic violence could entail both criminal and civil penalties, including:
- Probation
- Protective Orders
- Pain and Suffering
- Medical Expenses
- Counseling/Treatment Programs
- Incarceration
.
Under Missouri law, domestic assault charges are categorized into four degrees, with penalties escalating accordingly. For instance:
- 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 is a class B felony, unless it results in severe injury, in which case it becomes a class A felony. The former carries a maximum sentence of 15 years imprisonment, while the latter can result in life imprisonment.
- Second Degree Domestic Assault: This degree of domestic assault includes any endeavor to instrument,cause or knowingly cause serious injury with 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: 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 is a class E felony, carrying a maximum sentence of 4 years in prison.
- Fourth Degree Domestic Assault: According to 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, which carries 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 important to remember that the specifics of each case can vary substantially. Give the Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys in Ferguson, MO a call today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.

Why is it Critical to Hire a Skilled Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Ferguson, MO?
The Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys possess extensive knowledge and experience in navigating the Ferguson, 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 Ferguson, MO can entail a myriad of complexities involving intricate statutes, rules of evidence, and court procedures. Opting to navigate this path solo is ill-advised. A skilled Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense lawyer has a deep understanding of the local Ferguson, 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 adept and knowledgeable Ferguson, MO domestic violence defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte will ensure that your constitutional rights are protected 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 Ferguson, MO law enforcement or prosecutors.
- Knowledge of Local Ferguson, MO Court Procedures: An attorney well-versed in the Ferguson, MO court system possesses valuable insights into local judges, prosecutors, and basic, day-to-day courtroom procedures. This can be pivotal in constructing an effective defense strategy and achieving a favorable resolution.
- Minimizing Consequences: A proficient lawyer will advocate on your behalf to mitigate the potential consequences of domestic violence charges in Ferguson, MO. This may involve pursuing alternative sentencing options, like diversion programs or probation, rather than incarceration. 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 away 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 Ferguson, MO domestic violence defense attorneys, we provide assistance in the following areas for clients in Ferguson, MO:

Reach Out to the Leading Ferguson, MO Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys at Combs Waterkotte
If you find yourself confronting charges in the Ferguson, 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 need the best possible balance of compassion, aggression, and expertise on your side.
Call the Ferguson, MO domestic violence defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.

