Missouri, like most other states, has varying degrees of assault charges. For example, in Missouri, assault is typically classified as assault in the first degree, assault in the second degree, or assault in the third degree. There is also the separate offense of domestic offense, which applies when the parties are related by blood, marriage or have been in a relationship.

Missouri assault charges will either be charged as municipal cases, state misdemeanors or felonies, depending on a variety of factors. Regardless of how the case has been charged or where it has been filed, assault cases are very serious and require the assistance of a Missouri assault attorney. Your rights and your freedom are at stake.

It is a common misperception that you have to physically hurt someone to commit assault. This is not true. In Missouri, you can assault someone in a number of ways. You can assault another by knowingly causing injury, but you can commit assault simply by placing another in apprehension of immediate physical injury without ever touching them in any manner.

Domestic assault laws apply when the parties are related or have been in a continuing relationship. Like assault, domestic assault can be a misdemeanor or felony crime depending on a variety of factors. Whether you have been charged with misdemeanor domestic assault or felony domestic assault, you are facing a significant legal problem. A domestic assault situation will likely lead to a restraining order being filed against you.

Please call Missouri assault attorney Doug Smith at the O’Fallon Law Firm LLC if you are need of quality legal services.