St. Charles Assault Defense Lawyer

Charged with Assault? We Can Defend You!

If you are facing assault charges in St. Charles, MO, your reputation, freedom, and future are on the line. Assault is a serious criminal offense under Missouri law, and convictions can lead to severe penalties, including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, our experienced assault defense attorney provides strong, strategic representation to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

Call (314) 334-3807 to request a free case evaluation.

What is Assault in Missouri?

Under Missouri law, “assault” refers to intentionally causing or attempting to cause physical injury to another person. Missouri recognizes several degrees of assault, which vary in severity depending on the alleged actions and injuries involved.

Fourth-Degree Assault (Misdemeanor)

Fourth-degree assault is typically charged when someone causes or attempts to cause minor physical injury, or acts in a way that places another person in fear of immediate harm. For example, threatening someone or shoving them during an argument could result in a fourth-degree assault charge.

Third-Degree Assault (Felony or Misdemeanor)

Third-degree assault involves knowingly causing physical injury to another person. Depending on the facts of the case and the defendant’s prior record, this charge can be either a misdemeanor or a Class E felony.

Second-Degree Assault (Felony)

Second-degree assault usually involves causing serious physical injury or using a deadly weapon to injure someone. This is a Class D felony, punishable by substantial prison time if convicted.

First-Degree Assault (Serious Felony)

First-degree assault is the most severe assault charge in Missouri. It occurs when someone attempts to kill or knowingly causes serious physical injury to another person. This is a Class B felony, or even a Class A felony if serious injury results.

Criminal Penalties for Assault

Assault penalties in Missouri vary based on the degree of the offense, prior convictions, and whether weapons or serious injuries were involved. Below is a general overview of potential penalties:

• Class A Misdemeanor (Fourth-Degree Assault): Up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $2,000.
• Class E Felony (Third-Degree Assault): Up to 4 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
• Class D Felony (Second-Degree Assault): Up to 7 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
• Class B Felony (First-Degree Assault): 5 to 15 years in prison.
• Class A Felony (Aggravated First-Degree Assault): 10 to 30 years, or life imprisonment.

In addition to these criminal penalties, an assault conviction can have long-term consequences. You may face difficulties finding employment, renting housing, or obtaining professional licenses. A conviction can also damage personal relationships and your standing in the community.

Legal Defenses to Assault Charges

Each assault case is unique, and the right defense strategy depends on the specific circumstances of the incident. At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, our St. Charles assault defense lawyer carefully reviews every piece of evidence—police reports, witness statements, medical records, and more—to build the strongest possible defense.

Some common legal defenses to assault charges include:

• Self-Defense or Defense of Others: Missouri law allows you to use reasonable force to protect yourself or others from harm. If you acted to defend yourself against an aggressor, your actions may be legally justified.
• Lack of Intent: To be convicted of assault, the prosecution must prove that you acted intentionally or knowingly. If the incident was accidental or a misunderstanding, the charge may not hold.
• False Allegations: Unfortunately, assault charges sometimes stem from false accusations—particularly in emotionally charged situations like domestic disputes. Our firm investigates thoroughly to expose inconsistencies or motives behind false claims.
• Insufficient Evidence: The burden of proof rests on the prosecution. If evidence is weak, contradictory, or unlawfully obtained, we will move to suppress it and seek dismissal or reduction of charges.
• Consent or Mutual Combat: In some cases, both parties willingly engaged in a physical confrontation. This can affect the severity of charges or lead to dismissal under certain circumstances.

With The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, you’ll have a dedicated legal advocate committed to protecting your rights and pursuing the best possible result—whether through negotiation, pretrial motions, or trial defense.

Assault FAQs

Can I be charged with assault if I didn’t actually hit someone?

Yes. Under Missouri law, you can be charged with assault for attempting to cause injury or placing someone in fear of immediate harm, even if no physical contact occurred.

What happens if the alleged victim doesn’t want to press charges?

Even if the alleged victim wishes to drop the charges, the prosecutor can still move forward with the case. However, their cooperation can influence the outcome, and an experienced attorney can help navigate that process.

Can an assault charge be expunged from my record?

Some misdemeanor assault convictions may be eligible for expungement after a waiting period, but felony assault convictions are often not eligible. A St. Charles assault defense lawyer can review your case to determine your options.

Will I have to go to trial?

Not necessarily. Many assault cases can be resolved through plea negotiations or pretrial motions. However, The Hammer Law Firm, LLC is fully prepared to take your case to trial if it’s in your best interest.

Contact The Hammer Law Firm, LLC Today

If you have been accused of assault in St. Charles, MO, don’t face the charges alone. The earlier you involve a skilled St. Charles assault defense attorney, the better your chances of protecting your freedom and your future.

At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, we are dedicated to providing aggressive and compassionate legal representation for individuals facing assault charges. We will thoroughly investigate your case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and fight tirelessly for a fair outcome.

Contact The Hammer Law Firm, LLC for legal guidance inside and outside the courtroom.