Domestic Assault Attorney in Columbia, MO

The State of Missouri considers any act of violence or pattern of physical abuse to be domestic assault. Domestic assault can be a misdemeanor or felony offense, imposing extensive prison time and hefty fines if convicted. Domestic assault charges only apply between persons who share a special relationship, which must be established before a prosecutor will press charges.

If you have recently been charged with domestic assault, you may find yourself utterly perplexed. At Landon Miller Law, our Columbia, MO, domestic assault lawyer takes his role of helping people at their lowest very seriously. The moment you realize that you have landed on the wrong side of the law is the moment you need to speak with an attorney.

Examples of Domestic Assault

Any of the following behaviors will constitute a domestic assault charge in Missouri:

• Slapping, hitting, punching, strangling, kicking, or biting
• Threatening to physically abuse or causing someone to fear physical harm
• Injuring another person using a deadly or dangerous weapon
• Touching someone in an offensive or provocative manner
• Engaging in behavior that places the victim at risk of serious bodily injury or death

Your Relationship with the Victim

Domestic assault charges in Missouri may be filed between household members, family members, or individuals who are:

• Married
• Formerly married
• Related by blood or marriage
• Household members
• Former household members
• Dating or in a romantic relationship
• Former romantic partners
• Parents to the same child

Felony versus Misdemeanor Domestic Assault Charges

Felony domestic assault charges will be pressed if the victim alleges that you attempted to cause serious injury or kill them in the commission of the act. In most circumstances, domestic assault is a felony charge, but it may be charged as a misdemeanor in less severe cases.

Domestic Assault in the First Degree

You may be charged with first-degree domestic assault if there is evidence that you knowingly caused or attempted to cause the victim serious physical injury. If convicted, you may be sentenced to anywhere from five to fifteen years in jail (a class B felony). If you did inflict serious physical harm on the victim, the charge is enhanced to a class A felony, punishable by 10 to 30 years in prison.

Domestic Assault in the Second Degree

Recklessly causing physical injury or choking, strangulating, or using a deadly weapon to harm the victim will be charged as second-degree domestic assault. It is classified as a class D felony, punishable by up to seven years in prison.

Domestic Assault in the Third Degree

Attempting to cause physical injury or knowingly causing the victim physical pain or illness is considered domestic assault in the third degree. A class E felony, if convicted, you could be sentenced to up to four years in jail and fined $10,000.

Domestic Assault in the Fourth Degree

The least severe domestic assault charge, fourth-degree domestic assault, applies in circumstances in which an offensive touching occurs, when the victim is placed in fear of harm, if the perpetrator recklessly causes the victim harm, or if the perpetrator cuts the victim off from all outside means of communication. A conviction comes with a maximum of one year in jail and a potential $2,000 fine.

Persistent Counsel in a Time of Distress

An accusation of domestic violence or domestic assault can come out of nowhere, leaving you fearful of what comes next. At Landon Miller Law, our founding attorney has experience in investigating such matters to discern the legitimacy of the charges against you. He will sit down with you to discuss the specifics of the charges and provide an overview of the court process.

Moreover, Attorney Miller will keep you informed every step of the way, discussing how your case is progressing. He will negotiate with the prosecutor to fight for reduced charges and, in turn, a more lenient sentence. If you are looking for the best defense money can buy, look no further than Landon Miller Law.

Speak with Our Columbia, MO, Domestic Assault Attorney Now

If you have been accused of domestic assault, you understandably may be afraid of what the future holds. Even a domestic assault charge comes with serious consequences, which is why seeking counsel immediately is essential to safeguarding your rights. At Landon Miller Law, our Columbia, MO, domestic assault attorney has represented hundreds of clients, helping them achieve a favorable outcome. To get started, contact us online or by phone at (573) 658-1919 to arrange your consultation.