If the authorities in Missouri arrest you or a family member on an assault charge, it serves your best interests to reach out to a lawyer right away. A conviction for engaging in violent crimes in our state comes with severe penalties that may impact your life going forward.
Our attorneys believe all defendants need a basic understanding of the law as well as the penalties they may face upon conviction for assault. Knowing the consequences helps prepare defendants and empowers them to mount a proper defense.
Unlike many other states, Missouri does not have a battery law. This means that violent crimes are generally addressed under the state’s assault laws. Since battery charges in other states are often more serious than assault, many defendants in Missouri do not understand how much trouble they are facing when charged with assault. Below is a brief outline of the state laws addressing assault.
- First-degree assault: This charge arises if the authorities suspect you of trying to kill someone or knowingly causing them serious physical harm.
- Second-degree assault: Though similar, this offense is different from the above charge because it includes additional factors like recklessness and acts born out of passionate emotions.
- Third-degree assault: You may face this charge if the authorities believe you knowingly injured another person.
- Fourth-degree assault: This offense is like assault in the third-degree with additional elements like recklessness and/or negligence.
All the offenses discussed above are felonies except for assault in the fourth degree, which is a misdemeanor. As such, you will need to act quickly to avoid the harshest of consequences.
We invite you to continue exploring our website if you need more information about our state’s criminal laws. You may also reach out to us for personalized assistance.
