It’s intimidating and scary to be charged with assault in Kansas City. Even if you believe that you do not deserve any accusation, you are bound to go to jail, be fined, and get a criminal record. You need help in protecting yourself and your rights. You can have someone guide you throughout every step with a professional Kansas City criminal defense attorney for assault. Here you will discover what an assault lawyer does, why it’s vital, and how the right lawyer can assist.
Education Assault Charges in Kansas City
Assault in the state of Missouri is when a person tries to harm or threaten to harm another individual. Missouri law is graded for assault. The grade is based on how severe the act was and whether or not there was a weapon.
- First-degree assault is great bodily harm or attempted murder.
- Second-degree assault is threatening or use of a weapon.
- Third-degree assault is harm causing or pain causing.
- Fourth-degree assault is unwanted touching or threatening.
There are consequences to all the crimes. Even a misdemeanor will make a criminal record. A criminal record will ruin your future, family, and career.
How a Kansas City Assault Lawyer Can Help
A lawyer who deals with assault does not just stand before a judge. They are representing you as soon as they sign on to you. These are the major means by which they represent you:
1. Inform You of Your Rights
You have rights under Missouri and federal law. You do have the right to remain silent. You can ask for an attorney. You do not have to respond to questions without your attorney. Your attorney will explain these rights to you in simple terms. Your attorney will stop you from speaking in a manner that will harm your case.
2. Search Evidence
Prosecutors must establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Your attorney reviews all the evidence. Your attorney examines police reports, witness statements, videos, and medical records. If the evidence is tainted or weak, your attorney will challenge it.
3. Build Your Defense
Every case is unique. Your lawyer will build a defense on the facts. Some of the more frequent defenses are:
- Self-defense: You were defending yourself or someone else.
- Defense of property: You were trying to stop the theft or destruction.
- Consent: The other person consented to the act.
- Mistaken identity: You weren’t the one in the fight.
- Lack of intent: You didn’t mean to hurt.
Your lawyer will gather evidence and build your case.
4. Negotiate with Prosecutors
Not all cases go to trial. Your lawyer will likely negotiate with the prosecutor. This can lead to a plea bargain. A plea bargain can lower charges or lower the sentence. If you are not with an attorney, you will likely receive a bad bargain.
5. Present Your Case in Court
If your case does proceed to trial, your lawyer will present your case. They will question witnesses, object to proof, and make your argument. Court rules are formal. A good lawyer can get comfortable with adhering to them and presenting you in your best interest.
6. Guide You Through the Process
Assault charges can be daunting. Your lawyer will guide you through every step. They will keep you informed about what is going on and will respond to your questions. This counsel can relieve the tension and make you able to make intelligent decisions.
Why You Should Not Face Assault Charges Alone
Individuals think that they may defend themselves on an assault charge without counsel. This is a choice that will cost you your life. You have no idea what to object. You may say something that destroys your case. You may take a plea and do not know what happens. An experienced lawyer protects you against such risks. They have knowledge of law and courts in the state. Their experience is what keeps you out of prison and on the road to freedom.
Trait to Hire an Assault Lawyer
Lawyers are not the same. When you are looking for a Kansas City assault lawyer, look for:
- Experience: Choose one who has lots of assault case experience.
- Knowledge: They should be knowledgeable about Missouri laws.
- Communication: They must communicate in simple language.
- Trust: You must trust them enough to feel comfortable leaving your affairs in their hands.
- Dedication: Your attorney must be willing to defend you.
What to Do If You Are Charged
If you are accused of assault, do the following:
- Stay calm: Do not fight or argue with the police.
- Assert your right of silence: Do not apologize or justify.
- Request a lawyer: Do not respond to questions without a lawyer.
- Take evidence: Write down what occurred as quickly as possible.
- Don’t get in touch: Don’t make contact with the alleged victim.
These steps can protect your case.
What’s Special about Kansas City Assault Cases
Kansas City has prosecutors and courts unique to the area. There are local customs that could affect your case. For instance:
- Judges might have a private way of dealing with plea bargains.
- Local prosecutors might be assertive about specific kinds of assault.
- Community defense initiatives can influence sentencing.
A competent Kansas City assault attorney is familiar with what works in the local area and will apply it to your case.
How Quickly Do You Need to Move?
With assault cases, time is of the essence. Evidence vanishes. Witnesses forget that they witnessed anything. The sooner you hire an attorney, the better your case will be.
Moving as quickly as possible gives your lawyer time to:
- Gather new evidence
- Get testimony from witnesses
- Advice you before you speak with police
- Prepare to defend yourself
What Occurs in Your Case
Every case of assault is different, but they usually happen in the following way:
- Arrest: Police take you into custody and maybe book you into jail.
- Charges: Prosecutors indict you.
- Arraignment: You come before a judge and receive charges read to you.
- Pre-trial: Your lawyer reviews evidence and maybe files motions.
- Plea negotiations: Your lawyer and prosecutor may negotiate a plea bargain.
- Trial: If everybody doesn’t agree, the case is tried.
- Verdict: The judge or jury determines if you’re guilty.
- Sentencing: If you’re convicted, your sentence is determined by the judge.
Your lawyer will be with you every step of the way.
Why the Right Lawyer Makes a Difference
With the right lawyer, you can:
- Protect yourself from bias
- Reduce or dismiss charges
- Avoid jail time
- Avoid having a criminal record
Without a lawyer, you’re at the mercy of the system. That’s a bad gamble. A good defense can change your future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kansas City Assault Lawyers
1. How much does a Kansas City assault lawyer cost?
Fees vary with the case and attorney and include some who charge flat fees while others charge hourly. You should discuss fees when you have your first consultation so you are aware of what to anticipate.
2. May my attorney waive my fees?
It depends on your case. If you were illegally arrested or without a basis of evidence, your lawyer can get you charges dropped. Your lawyer can even try to negotiate for reduced charges or fines.
3. What do I bring with me to the first consultation with a lawyer?
Bring with you anything that is related to your case. This could be police reports, court documents, bail information, and things like that, anything you documented of what has happened. These keep your attorney up to date on what has been happening.
4. Do I have to go to trial?
Not at all. Most cases resolve out on plea bargains or dismissals. Your lawyer will go over the possibilities and help you figure out what you want to do.
5. How long is the Kansas City case of assault?
Based on complexity. Cases are resolved in weeks. Others are tired and last months. Your lawyer can give you a timeline on your case based on your facts.
Ready to Talk with a Kansas City Assault Attorney?
You don’t need to face these charges alone. An experienced Kansas City assault attorney will represent your interests, discuss your options, and fight for your best possible result. If you have questions or need help today, consult with a Kansas City assault attorney today. The earlier you do so, the better they’ll be capable of helping.
