Domestic violence defense attorneys in Florissant, MO. Have you found yourself facing accusations of domestic violence in Florissant, MO? 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 have served your country.
If you are facing domestic violence allegations anywhere in or around Florissant, MO, it’s imperative to take swift action to safeguard your freedom, reputation, and future. Call the Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys 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 in Florissant, MO and across Missouri for over four decades. Our exceptional record and over 250 reviews speaks for itself.
Essential Steps to Take When Accused of Domestic Violence in Florissant, MO
If you have been accused of or arrested for domestic violence in Florissant, MO, it’s essential 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 Florissant, 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 skilled attorneys will offer expert guidance, safeguard your rights, future, and reputation, and advocate on your behalf throughout the legal process in Florissant, MO.
- Assert and Maintain Your Innocence: Refrain from making any statements to Florissant, 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 Florissant, 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 Florissant, MO
Domestic violence encompasses a range of what are considered abusive behaviors by one family or household member against another. In Florissant, MO, instances of domestic violence may involve:
- Physical Violence: Considered any intentional physical harm or injury inflicted upon a family or household member. Includes striking, 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-esteem 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: Controlling or withholding financial resources, preventing access to money 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 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 Florissant, MO
The repercussions of domestic violence in and around Florissant, MO can vary significantly based on factors like the severity of the offense, the circumstances surrounding the incident, and any relevant criminal history. Convictions for domestic violence may entail both criminal and civil penalties, including:
- Probation
- Protective Orders
- Pain and Suffering
- Medical Expenses
- Counseling/Treatment Programs
- 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 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 attempt 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, carrying a maximum sentence of 7 years in prison.
- Third Degree Domestic Assault: According to RSMo § 565.074, third degree domestic assault involves 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: Under RSMo § 565.076, this degree of assault encompasses 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, 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 significantly differ. Call the Florissant, MO domestic violence defense attorneys today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Why is it Important to Hire a Skilled Florissant, MO Domestic Violence Defense Attorney?
The Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys have a wealth of knowledge and experience in the legal process throughout the Florissant, MO area. Engaging such experienced legal representation is pivotal for securing the most favorable outcome in your case. After retaining their services, you gain access to the following benefits:
- Legal Expertise: Domestic violence cases in Florissant, MO can bring on an array of complexities that could involve intricate statutes, rules of evidence, and court procedures. Opting to navigate this path solo is not suggested. A skilled Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense lawyer has a deep understanding of the local Florissant, MO and state domestic violence laws, as well as and the criminal justice system.
- Strategic Defense: A skilled defense attorney will develop a strategic defense tailored to the specifics of your case. The Combs Waterkotte legal team in the prosecution’s case. This may involve challenging the credibility of witnesses, contesting evidence, or negotiating for reduced charges or penalties.
- Protecting Your Rights: An experienced and knowledgeable Florissant, MO domestic violence defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte will ensure 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 lawyer will diligently work to prevent any violations of your rights by Florissant, MO law enforcement or prosecutors.
- Knowledge of Local Florissant, MO Court Procedures: A defense attorney familiar with the Florissant, MO court system possesses valuable insights into local judges, prosecutors, and basic, day-to-day courtroom procedures. This can be instrumental in building an effective defense strategy and achieving a favorable resolution.
- Minimization of Consequences: A skilled lawyer will advocate on your behalf to minimize the potential consequences of domestic violence charges in Florissant, MO. This may involve pursuing alternative sentencing options, such as diversion programs or probation, in lieu of incarceration. Your Combs Waterkotte lawyer always has your best interests in mind and will strive to get you the best possible outcome given the unique circumstances of your case. Call our domestic violence defense attorneys right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Combs Waterkotte is a top criminal defense law firm based in St. Louis. Along with expert legal representation from our skilled Florissant, MO domestic violence defense lawyers, we provide help in the following practice areas for clients in Florissant and anywhere in Missouri:
Reach Out to the Top Florissant, MO Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys at Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing domestic violence allegations in or around Florissant, MO, it’s crucial to seek counsel from a 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 Florissant, MO domestic violence defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte right now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.