Domestic violence defense attorneys in Monroe County, MO. Have you been arrested for or charged with domestic violence in the Monroe County, 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 have served your country.
If you’re facing domestic violence allegations anywhere in or around Monroe County, MO, it’s imperative to take swift action to protect your freedom, reputation, and future. Give the Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys a call immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to 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 vigorously advocated for the innocence of clients in Monroe County, MO and across Missouri for more than four decades. Our unparalleled track 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 Monroe County, MO
Should you find yourself accused of or arrested for domestic violence in Monroe County, MO, it’s essential to promptly take action to safeguard your rights and navigate the legal process effectively. Here are the steps you should take:
- Stay Calm: Facing these allegations in the Monroe County, MO area can be emotionally charged and overwhelming. 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 skilled attorneys will offer expert guidance, safeguard your rights, future, and reputation, and advocate on your behalf throughout the legal process in Monroe County, MO.
- Assert and Maintain Your Innocence: Assert your innocence and refrain from making any statements to Monroe County, 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 Monroe County, 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.
Scenarios When You Need the Help of Domestic Violence Attorneys in Monroe County, MO
Domestic violence encompasses a range of what are considered abusive behaviors by one family or household member against another. In the Monroe County, MO area, instances of domestic violence could include:
- 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, degradation, verbal threats, coercion, isolation, or exerting control 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, unwelcome surveillance, pursuit, monitoring, or harassment leading to fear, distress, or psychological anguish.
- Economic Control: Controlling or withholding financial resources, withholding access to funds or assets, obstructing employment opportunities, or exploiting financial dependency to exert power and control.
- 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.
Monroe County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Monroe County and Missouri.
What are the Possible Penalties For Domestic Violence in the Monroe County, MO Area?
Penalties for domestic violence in and around Monroe County, 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.
Under Missouri law, domestic assault charges are categorized into four degrees, with penalties escalating accordingly. For instance:
- First Degree Domestic Assault: Under Missouri Revised Statute § 565.072, first degree domestic violence encompasses attempts to kill or knowingly cause, or attempt to cause, 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. .
- Second Degree Domestic Assault: This tier 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, carrying a maximum sentence of 7 years imprisonment.
- 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 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 a household or family member. Fourth degree domestic assault is a class A misdemeanor, carrying 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 crucial to bear in mind that the intricacies of each case can significantly differ. Give the Monroe County, MO domestic violence defense attorneys a call today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Why is it Critical to Hire a Skilled Monroe County, MO Domestic Violence Defense Attorney?
The Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense attorneys possess extensive knowledge and experience in the Monroe County, MO legal process. 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 Proficiency: Domestic violence cases in Monroe County, 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 ill-advised. A proficient Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense lawyer boasts a profound understanding of the local Monroe County, MO and state domestic violence laws 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 conducts exhaustive investigations, gathers evidence, and identifies vulnerabilities in the prosecution’s case. This could include challenging witness credibility, contesting evidence, or negotiating for reduced charges or penalties.
- Protecting Your Rights: An experienced and skilled Monroe County, MO domestic violence defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte makes sure 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 confront witnesses against you. Your attorney will diligently work to prevent any violations of your rights by Monroe County, MO law enforcement or prosecutors.
- Knowledge of Local Monroe County, MO Court Procedures: A defense attorney familiar with the Monroe County, MO court system has invaluable insights into local judges, prosecutors, and routine courtroom procedures. This knowledge can be vital in building an effective defense strategy and achieving a favorable outcome.
- Minimizing Consequences: A proficient lawyer will advocate on your behalf to minimize the potential consequences of Monroe County, MO domestic violence charges. This could include pursuing alternative sentencing options, such as diversion programs or probation, in lieu of jail time. 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 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 Monroe County, MO domestic violence defense attorneys, we provide assistance in the following areas for clients in Monroe County, MO:
- Homicide Lawyer
- Assault Lawyer
- Rape Defense Lawyer
- Sex Offense Lawyers
- DWI Attorney
- Crime Defense Lawyers
- Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
- Criminal Lawyer
Connect With the Leading Monroe County, MO Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys at Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing domestic violence charges in the Monroe County, MO area, it’s imperative to seek counsel from a 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.
Contact the Monroe County, MO domestic violence defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.