Domestic violence or domestic assault charges in Missouri are serious and can carry severe and often life-altering penalties. If you have been accused of domestic violence in the state of Missouri, it is important to understand your options and to work quickly toward...
Violent Crimes
Is arrest mandatory when police respond to a domestic violence call?
Domestic violence refers to abusive behavior within a familial or intimate relationship, such as between spouses, partners or family members. It can manifest in various forms, including physical, emotional, sexual or financial abuse. When the police are called to...
Are bump stocks legal again?
Bump stocks were banned under federal law after the shooting in Las Vegas, Nevada. The shooting happened at an outdoor festival where concertgoers had gathered, and the shooter used a device called a “bump stock.” A bump stock allows a gun to fire faster than it could...
Violent crime at the federal level
When an individual uses physical force against another person, Missouri classifies this action as a violent crime. The majority of these cases are prosecuted at the state level, but under unique circumstances, these crimes can become federal offenses. A federal...
Understanding assault and battery in Missouri
Some states define assault as an intentional act that causes physical harm to another, including making threats, or attempting physical contact, even if there are no injuries. Battery, on the other hand, is the actual act that inflicts the injury. In Missouri, there...
Must you retreat before using physical force in self-defense?
It’s one of the most emotional and stressful decisions anyone will ever face: whether to use physical force to protect yourself or others from an imminent threat of physical harm. But in such situations, does Missouri law require someone to try to retreat before using...
Types of violent crimes and common defenses
It can be scary and confusing if you have been accused of a violent crime. If this occurs, try to gather as much information as possible that can support your case. Examples include witness statements or videos from cell phones and surveillance equipment. Establish...
What are the best defense strategies for an assault charge?
If you have been charged with assault, your entire life may be upended. Serious charges such as these affect both personal and professional relationships and could be contributing factors in child custody cases. Fighting these charges on your own can be overwhelming...
When is the use of force justifiable in Missouri?
There are situations when the facts behind a violent act may not be initially apparent. Law enforcement rarely considers violent acts a good enough reason for committing another violent crime. Often, it's up to a court of law to determine whether an act of force was...
Possible defense strategies for domestic assault charges
Domestic violence charges are quite serious. For starters, you risk losing your home, job and child custody in case of a divorce. In addition, your reputation is on the line and might suffer serious harm. Below is a comprehensive look at possible defense strategies...