You will likely be shocked and amazed when being arrested for assault. You are maybe wondering how this happened and what is ahead of you. With the right defense, your freedom and good name can be saved. An experienced Kansas City assault lawyer can assist you and represent you through the process.
What is Assault in Kansas City?
Assault is the act of intending to harm a person. Threatening that you are going to hurt someone is assault. The state of Kansas makes a distinction between assault in degrees:
- Simple Assault: You threaten someone but do not come into contact with them.
- Aggravated Assault: You threaten someone with something or actually hurt someone.
- Battery: You come into contact with or strike someone.
Even a misdemeanor will land you in jail, charge you money, and give you a record that will hurt your future. That’s why you need to have an attorney who knows the law and how to defend you.
Why You Need a Good Assault Lawyer
You don’t have to do it yourself. The legal system is complex. An attorney can:
- Explain charges in simple terms.
- Find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case against you.
- Represent you to the prosecutor and police.
- Guard your rights during questioning.
- Develop an effective defense to prevent jail or reduce sentences.
Without a lawyer, you could receive upgraded sentences or bias.
Common Assault Defenses
Your attorney can use various lines of defense. Some of the most common defenses include:
- Self-Defense: You were defending yourself.
- Defense of Others: You were defending others.
- Lack of Intent: You did not mean to harm or threaten.
- False Accusation: You were falsely accused.
- Consent: There was consent to the touching.
Every situation is unique, so your lawyer will go through all of the facts and decide what to do.
How Assault Charges Can Affect Your Life
Even if you believe the charge is minor, the penalty is severe. A conviction can lead to:
- Jail or prison
- Enormous fines
- Loss of job
- Trouble getting a job in the future
- Loss of right to own guns
- Disruption to relationships and reputation
These are hazards too great to ignore. Having someone who can speak for you effectively in court can make all the difference between being able to talk your way out and losing everything.
What Happens After You Are Charged?
This is what occurs:
- Arrest: The police arrest and take you into jail.
- Booking: They take your information, photograph, and fingerprint.
- Bond Hearing: You are released on bail in order to return home and await court.
- Arraignment: Officially read charges and enter a plea.
- Discovery: Prosecutor hands over evidence to lawyer.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Lawyers may file motions to exclude or limit evidence.
- Negotiation: Sometimes, there is a plea bargain negotiated.
- Trial: In case of inability to agree, your case is put on trial.
Your lawyer will represent and guide you through this process.
How a Kansas City Assault Lawyer Can Help
A great lawyer doesn’t only go to trial. They:
- Carefully research your case
- Secure evidence and interview witnesses
- Suppress negative or inadmissible evidence
- Negotiate a charge reduction or dismissal
- Represent you at hearings and trial
- Advise you so that you are always in control
You will never be on your own or caught off guard if you have an attorney.
What You Can Expect from an Assault Lawyer
It actually does make a difference whom you choose to be an attorney. Choose an attorney who:
- Is highly knowledgeable about Kansas City assaults
- Understands the courts and legislation there
- Is a very good and experienced attorney
- Explains things well and is a good communicator
- Listens to you and has your best interest in mind
When you sit down with a lawyer, you should ask him or her how long they have been in practice and what he or she is going to do with the case. You need someone you can trust on your side.
What to Do If You’re Arrested for Assault
If you’re taken away by police, keep quiet. Don’t fight or try to argue. Here’s what you do:
- Keep quiet. You don’t have to answer any questions.
- Request an attorney at once.
- Do not speak to police officers without your lawyer.
- Don’t post your case on social media.
- Write down what occurred as quickly as possible.
That way, you will adequately protect your rights and prevent mistakes that destroy your case.
Advantages of Early Attorney Representation
The sooner you see an attorney, the better. Early representation guarantees:
- Sooner analysis of evidence
- Speedier response to save your rights
- Increased time to construct a defense
- Greater chance to lower or reject charges
Doors of opportunity shut with waiting. Whenever you’ve got an assault charge against you, call a lawyer today.
Why You Ought to Hire Our Kansas City Assault Attorneys
Our attorneys are highly skilled in defending women and men for assault. We understand how intimidating it can be and are serious about all cases. When you choose to hire us, you get:
- One-on-one attention
- Direct advice along the way
- Aggressive defense strategy
- Respect and dignity for your case
- We defend your freedom and your future.
- Begin Your Defense Today
Don’t delay. A charge of assault can destroy your life. You deserve a strong defense and a clear voice. Call a Kansas City criminal defense lawyer today to arrange for a free consultation. We will listen and outline your choices.
Kansas City Charge of Assault FAQs
1. What if I am charged with assault?
Don’t call the person. Don’t talk to the police without an attorney. Call an aggressive assault attorney right away to guard your rights.
2. Do I end up in jail for first-offense assault?
Yes, and even on the first offense, you can end up in jail. Punishment hinges on charge severity and case circumstances. An attorney can potentially prevent or reduce jail.
3. How much does a Kansas City assault attorney cost?
There is potentially more than one fee. Some lawyers bill hourly, and some charge flat fees. You need to ask during your consultation if there are fees and how much and when you will pay them.
4. Is an assault conviction ever ever going to be expunged?
In general, yes. The conviction will still be on your record and impact employment and housing. Your lawyer can seal or expunge it later for you.
5. If I was defending myself or another person, what do I need to do?
Self-defense and defense of others are valid defenses. Your lawyer can introduce evidence to show that you defended yourself or someone else in a situation.