Possession With Intent to Distribute Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Possession With Intent to Distribute Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Possession With Intent to Distribute Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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With drug laws becoming ever stricter in St. Louis and throughout Missouri, police and prosecutors are taking aggressive steps to secure convictions and put suspected drug dealers behind bars. At Combs Waterkotte, our criminal defense firm has been vigorously defending Missouri residents from all walks of life who have been accused of drug offenses for years. Our experienced attorneys create personalized legal strategies designed to achieve the best possible outcome for each client.

How Is “Intent To Distribute” Determined in St. Louis and Missouri?

Under Missouri law, specifically RSMo §579.020, “knowingly possessing a controlled substance with the intent to distribute or deliver” is a Class C felony. Convictions can result in:

• 3–10 years in state prison
• Fines up to $10,000

The exception: possessing 35 grams or less of cannabis with intent to distribute is a Class E felony, carrying a maximum of four years in prison.

Possession with intent charges are often filed alongside other drug offenses to increase potential sentencing exposure.

How Prosecutors Prove “Intent to Distribute”

Intent is usually proven through circumstantial evidence. Prosecutors typically claim that the amount of drugs found was too large for personal use — a “reasonable person” standard.

Court rulings show how subjective this can be:

• State v. Belton (2003): Two pounds of cannabis was enough to prove intent to distribute.
• State v. McCleod (2006): A conviction was overturned for a defendant caught with 7.5 ounces of marijuana.

Other circumstantial factors used to claim intent include:

• Plastic bags or packaging materials
• Twist-ties or rubber bands
• Digital scales
• Large amounts of cash

Why Choose Combs Waterkotte for Your Possession With Intent to Distribute Defense?

• Our attorneys have a proven record of successfully defending possession with intent to distribute cases.
• We have deep knowledge of Missouri drug laws and how prosecutors build these cases.
• We create customized defense strategies tailored to each client's situation.
• We negotiate aggressively for reduced charges or favorable plea deals when appropriate.
• We are experienced trial lawyers ready to defend you before a jury.
• We excel at challenging circumstantial evidence used to support intent to distribute allegations.
• We prioritize communication and guide you through every step of the legal process.
• We are committed to protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future.

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Drug Possession Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Drug Possession Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Drug Possession Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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If you find yourself accused of drug charges or possession, you are likely very afraid that a conviction could bring an unwanted burden for years to come. At Combs Waterkotte, our St. Louis drug charges and possession lawyers take on the challenge and fight on your behalf. As the leading Missouri criminal defense firm, we know how to achieve the best possible resolution to your case.

Drug Cases We Handle In Missouri

When you are caught with drugs in your possession, you are at immediate risk of being charged with a felony and possibly going to jail. Even a very small amount of a controlled substance can lead to a Class D felony, which often results in several years of incarceration.

With such severe penalties in play, our firm moves quickly to build your defense and pursue alternatives. We focus on reducing charges whenever possible, and we frequently negotiate for diversion programs such as drug treatment, drug court, and counseling to avoid jail time and long-term consequences.

We handle all major Missouri drug charges, including:

Possession or Control — RSMo §579.015

Knowingly possessing any controlled substance without authorization is a crime and is typically charged as a Class D felony. We defend clients facing:

• Heroin Possession
• Methamphetamine Possession
• Cocaine Possession
• Prescription Drug Possession

Possession With Intent To Distribute — RSMo §579.020

If you distribute, attempt to distribute, or possess large quantities of a controlled substance — or have packaging materials, scales, or other distribution tools — you may be charged with intent to distribute. This ranges from a Class E to Class B felony depending on the drug and quantity.

Drug Paraphernalia — RSMo §579.040

Selling, delivering, or distributing drug paraphernalia with the intent to manufacture, distribute, or use controlled substances is a Class A misdemeanor. When done for commercial purposes, it becomes a Class E felony.

Marijuana Charges

Missouri voters passed Amendment 3, legalizing recreational marijuana possession and use. However, manufacturing and distribution remain illegal without a state-issued license. Unlicensed grow operations or large-quantity marijuana cases can still result in felony charges.

Drug Trafficking — RSMo §579.065 & §579.068

Drug trafficking involves purchasing, attempting to purchase, or transporting large quantities of controlled substances. Penalties vary widely:

• First-degree drug trafficking: Class B felony, upgraded to Class A for certain quantities or substances
• Second-degree drug trafficking: Class C to Class A felony depending on evidence and substance

Drug Manufacturing — RSMo §579.055

Manufacturing, producing, or growing controlled substances is a Class C felony. Penalties increase when:

• The offense occurs within 2,000 feet of a school (Class B felony)
• Someone is seriously injured or killed in a methamphetamine-related explosion (Class A felony)

Additional Drug-Related Offenses

• Drugs in Vehicle
• Federal Drug Charges

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Shoplifting Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Shoplifting Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Shoplifting Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Depending on the value of the goods stolen, shoplifting can land you in jail in Missouri. If you are facing shoplifting charges, you need the skilled Missouri criminal defense team at Combs Waterkotte in your corner. Our attorneys have extensive experience building successful defenses against shoplifting charges in Missouri, and we know how to effectively navigate the complexities of Missouri law to secure the outcome that best protects your future.

Defining Shoplifting in Missouri

Although shoplifting sounds like a modern term, it originated in England during the 1600s and initially referred to stealing from shops and warehouses. The modern version of shoplifting is less clearly defined. In fact, Missouri does not have a dedicated shoplifting statute.

Instead, it falls under Missouri’s general stealing laws. While shoplifting has no standalone legal definition, it usually involves:

• Stealing goods from an open store
• Concealing items on the body, in a bag, or among purchases
• Switching price tags to pay less
• Trying on merchandise and leaving the store wearing it

Importantly, shoplifting does not usually involve force or threats. If violence is involved, the offense may escalate to robbery — a much more serious charge.

Shoplifting can be impulsive or planned. Charges can be filed even if you return the item later, and high-value items such as jewelry, electronics, and gift cards are common targets due to their portability and resale value.

Laws Against Shoplifting in Missouri

Missouri’s theft offenses are contained in Chapter 570 of the Missouri Revised Statutes. Instead of separate statutes for each theft-related offense, Missouri uses one broad statute for stealing, covering shoplifting, fraud, extortion, and more. Stealing occurs when:

• A person appropriates (takes possession of) property
• The property belongs to someone else
• The accused intends to deprive the owner of the property
• The act is done without the owner’s consent

Prosecutors must prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt. The statute does not require concealment or that the owner be a store — meaning any theft from any person or business can qualify.

“Deprive” under the statute includes:

• Permanently withholding property
• Returning property only for compensation
• Using or disposing of property in a way that prevents its return

Penalties for Shoplifting and Related Charges in Missouri

The severity of shoplifting penalties depends on the value of the stolen items, the circumstances of the case, and whether the accused has prior theft offenses. Higher-value thefts and repeat offenses result in harsher penalties.

• Shoplifting under $150 (first offense): Class D misdemeanor; $500 fine; no jail.
• Shoplifting $150+ (first offense) or second offense: Class A misdemeanor; up to 1 year in jail.
• Third theft offense within 10 years: Class E felony; up to 4 years in prison.
• Shoplifting $750+, a firearm, or meth precursors: Class D felony; up to 7 years in prison.
• Shoplifting $25,000 or more: Class C felony; 3–10 years in prison.

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Second Degree Domestic Assault Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Second Degree Domestic Assault Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Second Degree Domestic Assault Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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A felony domestic violence charge in Missouri can cost you everything — your freedom, your reputation, and even your family. If you’ve been accused of causing serious harm to a spouse, partner, or household member, Combs Waterkotte is ready to defend your rights. Our St. Louis domestic violence defense attorneys know how prosecutors build these cases — and how to challenge the allegations, reduce the charges, win a full dismissal, or achieve a Not Guilty verdict at trial.

What Is Second Degree Domestic Assault in Missouri?

Second degree domestic assault is a felony offense under RSMo §565.073, which applies when a person knowingly or recklessly injures a domestic partner. Missouri prosecutors often pursue this charge in domestic violence cases that involve physical harm but fall short of first-degree domestic assault standards.

According to the statute, a person commits second degree domestic assault if they injure a domestic victim by:

• Knowingly causing physical injury by any means — including with a deadly weapon, dangerous instrument, or by choking or strangulation
• Recklessly causing serious physical injury
• Recklessly causing physical injury with a deadly weapon

The term “domestic victim” refers to individuals defined under RSMo §565.002 and RSMo §455.010. It can include:

• Your current or former spouse
• Someone related by blood or marriage
• Someone you live with now or previously lived with
• A boyfriend, girlfriend, or romantic partner
• A person with whom you share a child

Is second degree domestic assault a felony in Missouri? Yes — it is classified as a Class D felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of up to 7 years and a fine of up to $10,000 if convicted.

What Are the Penalties for Second Degree Domestic Assault in Missouri?

In Missouri, second-degree domestic assault is a Class D felony under §565.073 RSMo. A conviction can result in up to 7 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Additional consequences may include:

• Supervised probation or parole
• Loss of firearm rights under federal law
• Protective orders or no-contact orders
• A permanent criminal record impacting housing, employment, and custody

Important: Missouri prosecutors take domestic assault charges very seriously — especially when there’s evidence of injury or prior incidents. Early intervention by a Missouri second degree domestic assault lawyer can significantly affect the outcome of your case.

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Second Degree Assault Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Second Degree Assault Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Second Degree Assault Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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If you’ve been charged with second-degree assault in Missouri, you’re facing a felony offense that can result in prison time, fines, and a permanent record. Our experienced St. Louis criminal defense and violent crimes lawyers understand how prosecutors approach these cases, and we know how to fight back. Combs Waterkotte will help you challenge the evidence, negotiate reductions, or defend your case at trial.

What Is Second Degree Assault in Missouri?

Under Missouri Revised Statute §565.052, second-degree assault is a felony that covers six different situations — all involving serious physical injury, use of weapons, or reckless behavior. This charge can carry significant penalties, including years in prison.

You can be charged with second-degree assault in Missouri if you allegedly:

• Cause or attempt to cause serious physical injury to someone under the influence of sudden passion (like during a fight)
• Intentionally cause physical injury by using a deadly weapon or dangerous object
• Recklessly cause serious physical injury to someone else
• Recklessly injure someone by discharging a firearm
• Cause physical injury while driving away from police or fleeing arrest
• Strangle or choke someone by impeding their breath or circulation

What Are the Penalties for Second Degree Assault in Missouri?

In Missouri, second-degree assault is typically charged as a Class D felony. But if the alleged victim is a “special victim” — such as a police officer, emergency responder, or elderly person — the charge becomes a Class B felony with much harsher consequences.

Class D felony penalties:

• 1 to 7 years in prison
• Possible supervised probation (up to 4 years)
• Fines up to $10,000

Class B felony penalties:

• 5 to 15 years in prison
• No probation in many cases

Who qualifies as a “special victim” under Missouri law?

• Law enforcement officers
• Firefighters and emergency medical personnel
• Individuals 60 years or older
• Persons with disabilities
• Transit or utility workers performing duties

Can Second Degree Assault Charges Be Reduced in Missouri?

Yes — second-degree assault charges can be reduced or even dismissed in certain situations, especially when handled by an experienced Missouri second degree assault defense lawyer early in the case.

Common reasons charges are reduced:

• The injury was minor or unintentional
• You acted in self-defense
• You have no prior criminal record
• The alleged victim does not want to press charges
• There is insufficient or conflicting witness testimony

First-time offenders may qualify for diversion programs, probation, or reduced charges that avoid a felony record — but only if the case is handled proactively. Waiting too long to mount a defense can limit your options.

The takeaway: A strong legal strategy filed early can make the difference between a felony conviction and a second chance.

Missouri Statutes Covering First Degree Assault

The Missouri Revised Statutes include two offenses called first degree assault.

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Resisting Arrest Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Resisting Arrest Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Resisting Arrest Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Resisting arrest is a serious offense in Missouri that could result in significant fines and even jail time. If you’re facing charges of resisting arrest, the skilled St. Louis criminal defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte can help protect your rights and your freedom. Our team has over 50 years of experience defending clients against resisting arrest charges, and we can help you, too.

Resisting Arrest Laws in Missouri

Missouri citizens can be charged with resisting arrest or interfering with an arrest if they know (or should reasonably know) an officer is attempting to make an arrest or detain a vehicle and act purposefully to prevent that from occurring. Someone who resists an arrest must have fled or used or threatened to use physical force or violence.

Defenses for Resisting Arrest Charges in Missouri

When you hire an attorney, they’ll investigate the circumstances leading to the arrest to understand what the most appropriate criminal defense strategies might be. The following are some of the tactics your lawyer might employ:

• Self-Defense: You may argue the officer used excessive force, prompting you to defend yourself. Your actions must be shown to be a proportionate response.
• Failure to Identify as Law Enforcement: Officers must identify themselves. If it was unclear they were law enforcement, you may not have reasonably known resisting was occurring.
• Actions Outside Scope of Authority: If the officer was acting unlawfully or outside their authority, the arrest may be invalid, weakening the state’s case.

Hiring Proven Criminal Defense Attorneys for Resisting Arrest Charges

Facing criminal charges can be intimidating. At Combs Waterkotte, we bring decades of experience to guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights.

We’ve handled thousands of cases including resisting arrest and understand how prosecutors think. This allows us to develop tailored defense strategies for each client.

From minor offenses to serious felonies, we approach every case with care and determination. When you work with us, you get strong, effective legal representation.

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Motor Vehicle Tampering Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Motor Vehicle Tampering Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Motor Vehicle Tampering Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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In Missouri, the concept of “tampering with a motor vehicle” is not just limited to automobiles. If you’ve been accused of stealing or otherwise operating a car, boat, motorcycle, or indeed any object with a gas- or electric-powered motor in Missouri that is not legally yours, you could be looking at severe penalties and the loss of some of your rights.

Vehicle Tampering Laws in Missouri

Vehicle tampering laws vary by jurisdiction, but generally, they encompass a range of actions that involve interfering with a vehicle without the owner's consent. These laws are designed to protect vehicles from theft, vandalism, and other unauthorized activities. Here are some common examples of vehicle tampering laws:

• Unauthorized Entry: Breaking into a car or gaining access to a vehicle without permission.
• Theft Prevention Devices: Tampering with or disabling anti-theft systems such as alarms or steering wheel locks.
• Vehicle Damage: Damaging vehicle components, including slashing tires, breaking windows, or scratching paint.
• Vehicle Interference: Actions that interfere with the safe operation of a vehicle, including cutting brake lines or disabling lights.
• Unauthorized Use: Using or operating a vehicle without permission, including joyriding or borrowing a vehicle unlawfully.
• Fraudulent Practices: Altering VIN numbers, forging registration documents, or engaging in fraudulent ownership activities.
• Trespassing: Entering or remaining inside a vehicle without authorization, including hiding inside a vehicle or using it as shelter.

If you or someone you know has recently been charged with one of the above, contact a St. Louis vehicle tampering law firm today for legal representation. You can call us at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.

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Leaving the Scene of an Accident Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Leaving the Scene of an Accident Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Leaving the Scene of an Accident Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Combs Waterkotte has helped many Missouri residents from all walks of life who have left the scene of a car accident. Our firm understands that sometimes good people get into crisis situations and ensure that our clients are listened to and valued throughout the legal process. We fight zealously to ensure that you get the best outcome for your Missouri hit and run case and are able to put a stressful episode behind you.

What Happens When I Leave The Scene of an Accident in Missouri?

The law in Missouri is quite clear about what a driver in MO should do if they are ever in a car accident, no matter how small.

Protect your driving and criminal record with Combs Waterkotte. Contact one of our traffic violations and criminal defense lawyers today at (314) 900-HELP.

Missouri Revised Statute §577.060 states that all parties in a car accident should stop and give the following information to each other and law enforcement:

• Their name
• Their home address
• The registration information for the vehicle involved in said accident
• Their drivers' license number

Anyone who failed to do any one of these requirements can be charged with leaving the scene of an accident. The minimum punishment for this offense is a class A misdemeanor, which carries with it a maximum fine of $2,000 and as much as one year's jail time.

However, if your accident was one where the assessed damage to another car was more than $1,000, or if it resulted in an injury to another person, you will be charged with a class E felony. This carries with it up to four years in state prison as well as a potential fine of up to $5,000.

Repeat hit-and-run offenders are also charged with class E felonies. If the accident the accused was involved in resulted in a fatality, they will be charged with a class D felony, which has a recommended punishment of 1–7 years in prison and a maximum $10,000 fine.

What Happens if I’m Convicted of Leaving the Scene of an Accident in Missouri?

In addition to the possible criminal penalties of incarceration and fines, you can also face:

Points for Leaving the Scene of an Accident:

• Conviction adds points to your Missouri driver’s license
• 6 points for being pulled over by municipal or county police in St. Louis
• 12 points for cases handled by the Missouri State Highway Patrol and tried at the state level

License Suspension/Revocation:

• Driving privileges may be suspended due to point accumulation (8 points or more in 18 months)
• Automatic license revocation for accumulating 12 points in 12 months

Impact on Car Insurance:

• Significant increase in car insurance premiums
• Requirement to purchase an SR-22 policy proving minimum coverage
• SR-22 needed for two years post-restoration of driving privileges
• Some insurers charge extra for SR-22 or refuse coverage

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Fourth Degree Domestic Assault Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Fourth Degree Domestic Assault Defense Law firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Fourth Degree Domestic Assault Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Even the lowest-level domestic assault charge in Missouri can have lasting consequences including a criminal record, protective orders, and jail time. If you’ve been accused of Fourth Degree Domestic Assault, don’t wait to protect your rights. The St. Louis domestic violence and criminal defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte fight to keep cases off your record, reduce charges, and resolve cases before they escalate. Contact us today for urgent, confidential help.

What Is Fourth Degree Domestic Assault in St. Louis?

Under §565.076 RSMo, fourth degree domestic assault applies when someone commits one of several specific acts against a “domestic victim.” These acts do not have to cause injury to result in a criminal charge.

According to the statute, it includes situations where you allegedly:

• Attempt to cause or recklessly cause physical injury, pain, or illness
• Place a domestic partner in fear of immediate physical harm
• Engage in offensive physical contact with a domestic victim
• Negligently injure someone using a weapon
• Isolate a partner from access to communication, transportation, or medical care

“Domestic victim” means a person with whom the defendant has or had a close relationship. This includes:

• Current or former spouses
• Relatives by blood or marriage
• People who live or have lived together
• Partners in a romantic or intimate relationship
• Parents who share a child, even if they’ve never lived together

In summary: This is Missouri’s broadest domestic assault law, and prosecutors often use it in cases with no visible injury — especially when police are called during heated domestic disputes.

Can a Fourth Degree Domestic Assault Charge Be Dismissed in Missouri?

Yes — but it depends on how early and how strongly your defense team responds. Charges may be dropped if:

• The alleged victim refuses to testify or cooperate
• The police report lacks clear evidence of a crime
• You acted in self-defense or the incident was mutual
• Your attorney negotiates for pretrial diversion or deferred prosecution

Keep in mind, prosecutors do not need the victim’s cooperation to pursue charges. They often rely on police body cam footage, witness statements, or physical evidence.

In summary: With fast action and the right legal strategy, it’s possible to avoid a conviction — and even prevent charges from being filed at all.

Missouri Statutes Covering First Degree Assault

The Missouri Revised Statutes include two offenses called first degree assault.

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Fourth Degree Assault Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Fourth Degree Assault Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Fourth Degree Assault Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Fourth Degree Assault Lawyer Missouri. If you’ve been accused of fourth-degree assault in Missouri, you could face a Class A misdemeanor charge for alleged threats, offensive touching, or reckless conduct. At Combs Waterkotte, our St. Louis criminal defense lawyers fight these cases head-on to protect your record, your reputation, and your freedom.

What Is Fourth Degree Assault in Missouri?

Fourth-degree assault in Missouri is defined under §565.056 RSMo as any of six different actions that involve minor harm, threats, or offensive contact. It’s the lowest level assault charge in Missouri — but it’s still a crime with real consequences.

Here’s what counts as fourth-degree assault:

• Recklessly causing physical injury to another person
• Negligently causing injury with a deadly weapon
• Attempting to cause physical injury
• Threatening someone and making them fear harm
• Offensive physical contact such as pushing or grabbing
• Attempting offensive contact that a reasonable person would find provoking

Example: If you shove someone, threaten them with your fists, or accidentally injure them with a weapon, you could be charged with fourth-degree assault even if they weren’t seriously hurt.

The takeaway: Fourth-degree assault casts a wide net, meaning even minor altercations can turn into criminal charges.

Missouri Fourth Degree Assault: Key Elements and Examples

Fourth-degree assault covers a wide range of conduct, from reckless injury to offensive contact. Here’s a quick breakdown of what prosecutors look for — and what it might mean in your case:

Legal Element Example Recklessly causes physical injury Pushing someone during an argument Negligently causes injury with a deadly weapon Accidentally hitting someone with a tool Places another in fear of immediate harm Raising fists or verbal threats that cause fear Knowingly makes offensive physical contact Slapping, shoving, or grabbing without consent Can Fourth Degree Assault Charges Be Dropped in Missouri?

Yes — fourth-degree assault charges can be dropped in Missouri, but it depends on the facts of the case and how early you act. Prosecutors may dismiss the charge if evidence is weak, if the incident was clearly accidental, or if the alleged victim chooses not to cooperate.

In some cases, your attorney can present mitigating factors, argue that no crime occurred, or negotiate an alternative resolution like a diversion program or amended charge.

Here’s what can lead to a dismissal:

• Witness inconsistencies or lack of cooperation
• No physical injury or visible harm
• Clear self-defense or mutual confrontation
• Strong community ties and clean record

The takeaway: The sooner you get legal help, the more options you have to get charges reduced or dropped entirely.

Missouri Statutes Covering First Degree Assault

The Missouri Revised Statutes include two offenses called first degree assault.

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