Domestic violence defense attorneys in Lincoln County, MO. Have you been arrested for or charged with domestic violence in Lincoln County, 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 Lincoln County, MO, act quickly 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 a distinguished criminal defense law firm, renowned for its compassionate and resolute defense lawyers who have vigorously advocated for the innocence of clients throughout the Lincoln County, MO area for over 40 years. Our exceptional record and over 250 reviews stand as testament to our unwavering commitment to our clients’ rights and freedoms.
Essential Steps to Take When Accused of Domestic Violence in Lincoln County, MO
Should you find yourself accused of or arrested for domestic violence in Lincoln County, MO, it’s essential to promptly take action to protect your rights and navigate the legal process effectively. Here are the steps you should take:
- Stay Calm: Confronting allegations of domestic violence in the Lincoln County, MO area can be daunting and emotional. 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 offer expert guidance, protect your rights, future, and reputation, and provide resolute advocacy throughout the Lincoln County, MO legal process.
- Assert and Maintain Your Innocence: Refrain from making any statements to Lincoln County, 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 Lincoln County, MO domestic violence defense attorneys will keep you informed, ensure open lines of communication to avoid missing any critical updates. Also, be sure to ask questions if you have any concerns or uncertainties.
Situations When You Need the Help of Domestic Violence Attorneys in Lincoln County, MO
Domestic violence encompasses a spectrum of behaviors recognized as abusive within familial or household settings. In the Lincoln County, MO area, instances of domestic violence could include:
- Physical Violence: Any deliberate act causing bodily harm or injury to a family or household member. Includes hitting, kicking, hitting, strangling, or weapon use.
- Emotional Abuse: 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: Controlling or withholding financial resources, preventing access to funds 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 family or household.
Lincoln County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Lincoln County and Missouri.
Understanding the Potential Consequences of Domestic Violence in Lincoln County, MO
Penalties for domestic violence in and around Lincoln County, MO vary greatly depending on the gravity 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: Defined 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. The former carries a maximum sentence of 15 years imprisonment, while the latter can result in life imprisonment.
- Second Degree Domestic Assault: This tier of domestic assault includes any attempt to inflict serious injury knowingly, utilizing a deadly weapon, dangerous instrument, or via strangulation. Second degree domestic assault is a class C felony, carrying a maximum sentence of 7 years imprisonment.
- Third Degree Domestic Assault: As outlined in 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 is a class E felony, carrying a maximum sentence of 4 years imprisonment.
- Fourth Degree Domestic Assault: Governed by 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, 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 Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys in Lincoln County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Why is it Critical to Hire a Skilled Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Lincoln County, MO?
The Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys have a wealth of knowledge and experience in the legal process throughout the Lincoln County, 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 Lincoln County, 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 Lincoln County, MO and state domestic violence laws, as well as and the criminal justice system.
- Strategic Defense: A knowledgeable 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 witness credibility, contesting evidence, or negotiating for reduced charges or penalties.
- Protection of Your Rights: An experienced and knowledgeable Lincoln County, 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 attorney will diligently work to prevent any infringements on your rights by Lincoln County, MO law enforcement or prosecutors.
- Knowledge of Local Lincoln County, MO Court Procedures: A defense attorney familiar with the Lincoln County, MO court system possesses invaluable insights into local judges, prosecutors, and routine courtroom procedures. This can be instrumental in constructing an effective defense strategy as well as achieving a favorable resolution.
- Minimizing Consequences: A proficient attorney will advocate on your behalf to mitigate the potential repercussions of Lincoln County, MO domestic violence charges. This could include 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 specific circumstances of your case. Give our domestic violence defense attorneys a call now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Combs Waterkotte is a leading criminal defense law firm based in St. Louis. In addition to expert legal representation from our skilled Lincoln County, MO domestic violence defense attorneys, we provide help in the following practice areas for clients in Lincoln County and anywhere in Missouri:
Connect With the Top Lincoln County, MO Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys at Combs Waterkotte
If you find yourself confronting charges in the Lincoln County, MO area, it’s imperative to consult with a seasoned attorney capable of offering tailored guidance and representation. Your freedom and reputation hang in the balance. You work hard; so should your lawyers. You need the best possible balance of compassion, aggression, and expertise on your side.
Contact the Lincoln County, MO domestic violence defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.