Lexington, MO

Domestic violence defense lawyer in Lexington, MO. Have you been accused of domestic violence in or around Lexington, MO? Domestic violence allegations are serious—and even an accusation can damage your career, relationships, and reputation. You could face losing custody of your children, your job, or even critical veteran benefits in Lexington, MO.

Don’t wait to protect yourself. Call the trusted Lexington, MO domestic violence defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation. We will immediately begin building a personalized defense strategy to protect your freedom and future.

With more than 50 years of combined legal experience and more than 350 five-star reviews, Combs Waterkotte is the law firm Lexington, MO trusts to deliver the best possible outcome when it matters most.

Article Summary

Being charged with domestic violence in Lexington, MO can have devastating consequences—including loss of freedom, strained family relationships, and a permanent criminal record. Navigating these charges without experienced legal representation puts your future at serious risk. At Combs Waterkotte, our Lexington, MO domestic violence defense lawyers provide aggressive, strategic defense to protect your rights and minimize the impact on your life.

Read on to discover:

• The critical first steps to take immediately after being accused of domestic violence.
• How Missouri defines domestic violence—and why accusations are sometimes exaggerated or misunderstood.
• The potential criminal and civil penalties you could face, including fines, incarceration, and loss of gun rights.
• Common defense strategies used by skilled attorneys to fight Lexington, MO domestic violence allegations.
• Why choosing an experienced domestic violence defense lawyer in Lexington, MO is essential for safeguarding your future.

Steps to Take if You’re Accused of Domestic Violence in Lexington, MO

If you are accused of domestic violence in Lexington, MO, take action quickly and wisely. Waiting is not a wise option. Here’s what to do:

• Step 1 — Don’t Panic: Emotional reactions can be misinterpreted and used against you. Stay level-headed and cautious.
• Step 2 — Lawyer Up ASAP With Combs Waterkotte: An experienced domestic violence defense lawyer in Lexington, MO will protect your rights from the start and develop the strongest possible defense.
• Step 3 — Don’t Go It Alone with Police: Law enforcement may push for answers—don’t give them any until your attorney is there to protect you.
• Step 4 — Stay Ready, Stay Informed: Lexington, MO domestic violence cases move quickly. Our team will update you regularly and ensure no legal opportunity is missed.

How Missouri Defines Domestic Violence in Lexington, MO

Under Missouri law, domestic violence refers to a wide range of harmful behaviors between individuals who live together or share a family relationship. These acts include:

• Stalking: Ongoing harassment, following, or surveillance that causes the victim to fear for their safety.
• Physical Harm: Hitting, kicking, choking, or any other act of violence that results in injury or pain.
• Psychological Abuse: Threats, intimidation, verbal abuse, isolation, or manipulative behavior that causes emotional distress.
• Sexual Assault: Non-consensual sexual contact, rape, or sexual coercion within a relationship.
• Financial Abuse: Denying access to money or sabotaging employment to control another person’s independence.
• Child Endangerment: Physical, emotional, or financial abuse directed at children within the household.

If you hire a Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense lawyer in the Lexington, MO area, you aren’t just selecting the top-rated defense team in Lexington, MO and beyond – you’re safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to knowledgeable domestic violence defense lawyers, our staff is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for Lexington, MO residents:

• Weapons Crime Attorney
• Order of Protection Defense Lawyers
• DWI Administrative Hearing Lawyer
• DWI/DUI Lawyer
• Violent Crime Lawyer
• Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Drug Crimes Lawyer
• Gun Crime Lawyer
• Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer

Serious Penalties for Domestic Violence Charges in Lexington, MO

Domestic violence charges in Lexington, MO carry severe criminal penalties, depending on the level of the alleged offense. You could face:

• First-Degree Domestic Assault: Attempting to kill or causing serious physical injury—charged as a Class A or Class B felony punishable by up to life in prison.
• Second-Degree Domestic Assault: Using a weapon or strangulation to cause harm—charged as a Class C felony, up to 7 years behind bars.
• Third-Degree Domestic Assault: Causing pain or illness—this Class E felony can lead to 4 years of incarceration.
• Fourth-Degree Domestic Assault: Minor injuries or negligent harm—typically a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail.

Even a misdemeanor conviction can result in protection orders, loss of your firearm rights, and long-term damage to your record. At Combs Waterkotte, our experienced defense attorneys fight to protect your freedom and future every step of the way in the Lexington, MO area.

Why Hiring the Right Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer in Lexington, MO Matters

If you’re facing domestic violence charges in Lexington, MO, the attorney you choose can make or break your case. Here’s how a Combs Waterkotte defense lawyer helps you take control of your future:

• Local Legal Advantage — We know the judges, prosecutors, and legal nuances specific to Lexington, MO, which means smarter strategy and better results.
• Strategic Defense — Whether you were falsely accused or acted in self-defense, we build your case around facts—not assumptions.
• Constitutional Protection — From your right to remain silent to the right to a fair trial, we ensure your constitutional rights are respected at every step of your case in Lexington, MO.
• Smart Negotiation Skills — We negotiate directly with prosecutors when appropriate to secure reduced charges or avoid jail time through effective plea agreements.
• Fearless Trial Defense — If needed, we’re ready to take your Lexington, MO case to trial and fight relentlessly for a not guilty verdict.

When your future is on the line, you need a battle-tested legal team on your side. The most common—and expensive—mistake we see is individuals who hire lawyers based on bus-stop advertisements and low costs. Call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to discuss the specifics of your case with a skilled Lexington, MO domestic violence defense lawyer.

When Does a “Fight” Become Domestic Violence in Lexington, MO?

Arguments happen in Lexington, MO—but when they escalate, even slightly, you could be facing serious legal consequences. In Missouri, any physical act or threat of harm involving a domestic victim can lead to a domestic violence charge. Under Missouri law, a domestic victim includes:

• A current or former spouse
• Family member by blood or marriage
• A co-parent of your child
• Someone you currently or previously lived with
• Someone you are or were in a dating or intimate relationship with

FAQs Answered by a Trusted Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer in Lexington, MO

At Combs Waterkotte, we understand how overwhelming domestic violence charges can be. That’s why our defense team in Lexington, MO compiled this list of frequently asked questions to give you clarity, peace of mind, and practical next steps:

Do Courts Always Believe the Alleged Victim in Lexington, MO Domestic Violence Cases?

Not necessarily—courts in Lexington, MO base decisions on facts, not just accusations. With the right domestic violence defense lawyer fighting for you, it’s possible to challenge claims, expose inconsistencies, and secure a favorable outcome.

What is the Missouri Domestic Violence 12 Hour Rule?

The Missouri 12-hour rule in domestic violence was put in place to protect alleged victims of repeated assault. It states that a law enforcement officer must make an arrest if they’ve been called to the same address twice within a 12-hour period.

Do I Have to Be Arrested in Lexington, MO for a Domestic Violence Charge?

Unlike many other states, Missouri does not have a mandatory arrest law regarding domestic violence. However, whether or not you are arrested, being charged with domestic violence can have serious consequences. Combs Waterkotte is here.

Can a Domestic Violence Conviction be Expunged in Missouri?

While certain domestic violence convictions in Missouri may qualify for expungement, whether you’re eligible depends on the nature of the offense and the time that has elapsed since the conviction.

If the Victim Stops Cooperating, Will My Domestic Violence Case in Missouri Be Dismissed?

If the victim in a domestic violence case doesn’t show up to court in Missouri, this does not automatically mean that your case will be dismissed. In fact, while the victim’s testimony is often vital in these types of cases, Missouri Revised Statutes § 595.209 allows the prosecution in Lexington, MO to move forward without the victim’s cooperation or presence if there is other evidence that is sufficient to support the charge.

What Are the Implications of a Domestic Violence Charge on Child Custody and Visitation in Lexington, MO?

A domestic violence charge can significantly impact child custody and visitation decisions. Family courts prioritize the child’s safety and well-being, so any history of domestic violence is taken seriously. If you are facing these charges, you need the help of an experienced Lexington, MO domestic violence defense lawyer right now.

Get Legal Help From a Lexington, MO Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer Right Away

Domestic violence charges carry life-changing consequences—but with the right legal team, you don’t have to face them alone. Combs Waterkotte is here to stand by your side and fight for your rights in Lexington, MO.

Call (314) 900-HELP or message us today to schedule your free case evaluation with a trusted domestic violence defense lawyer in Lexington, MO, who will advocate for your future.