WHAT IS CONSIDERED DOMESTIC ASSAULT IN MISSOURI?

DOMESTIC ASSAULT

In Missouri, domestic assault is taken very seriously. Even a first offense can lead to arrest, jail time, and long-term consequences for your record, reputation, and rights—including the loss of your right to own a firearm.

At KC Defense Counsel, our expert Kansas City domestic assault defense lawyers in Missouri work with clients throughout Kansas City who are facing domestic assault charges. Whether the incident involved a spouse, partner, roommate, or family member, it’s critical to understand what the law defines as domestic assault and what you’re up against if you’re charged.

UNDERSTANDING DOMESTIC ASSAULT IN MISSOURI

Domestic assault is a crime involving physical harm or the threat of harm against someone in a domestic relationship with the accused. This can include:

  • A spouse or ex-spouse
  • A current or former romantic partner
  • Someone you live with or used to live with
  • A co-parent
  • Certain family or household members

Domestic assault charges range in severity from fourth-degree misdemeanors to first-degree felonies, depending on the facts of the case.

DEGREES OF DOMESTIC ASSAULT IN MISSOURI

Fourth-Degree Domestic Assault: This is the most common charge. It includes:

  • Causing minor physical injury
  • Threatening physical harm
  • Engaging in offensive or provocative contact

This is typically a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a fine up to $2,000. However, a second offense may be charged as a felony.

Third-Degree Domestic Assault: This involves more serious or repeated physical harm. It is charged as a Class E felony, with potential prison time of up to 4 years.

Second-Degree Domestic Assault: Includes the use of a deadly weapon, strangulation, or infliction of serious physical injury. This is a Class D felony, punishable by up to 7 years in prison.

First-Degree Domestic Assault: This is the most serious charge and involves:

  • Attempting to kill
  • Knowingly causing or trying to cause serious physical injury

This is a Class B felony, or a Class A felony if serious injury occurs—meaning 10 years to life in prison.

CAN YOU BE CHARGED WITH DOMESTIC ASSAULT WITHOUT CAUSING INJURY?

Yes. You can be arrested and charged for:

  • Verbal threats
  • Shoving or grabbing
  • Blocking someone’s exit
  • Throwing objects
  • Causing fear of harm, even if no physical contact occurs

In many cases, the alleged victim doesn’t need to press charges. Police can arrest you and prosecutors can file charges even if the accuser changes their story or refuses to testify.

PROTECTIVE ORDER AND BOND CONDITIONS

If you’re charged, the court may issue a Full Order of Protection, which can:

  • Prohibit contact with the alleged victim
  • Force you to move out of your home
  • Restrict child custody or visitation
  • Prevent you from owning firearms

Violating these orders can lead to additional criminal charges.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU’RE CHARGED WITH DOMESTIC ASSAULT IN MISSOURI

Do not try to talk to the alleged victim or explain yourself to the police. Anything you say can and will be used against you.

Instead:

  • Remain silent
  • Call an experienced Kansas City criminal defense attorney immediately

At KC Defense Counsel, we examine the facts, challenge weak evidence, and work to get charges reduced or dismissed, especially in cases involving false accusations, misunderstandings, or no physical harm.

Domestic assault charges in Missouri can derail your life…fast. Even a misdemeanor conviction can affect your gun legal rights, your job, and your custody rights.

Don’t assume you can talk your way out of it. Don’t wait to see what happens.

CONTACT KC DEFENSE COUNSEL TODAY AND LET US HELP YOU

If you’ve been charged with domestic assault in Missouri, you need an experienced and aggressive defense team. Contact KC Defense Counsel today for a free, confidential case evaluation. We’ll fight to protect your freedom, your rights, and your future.

Cities we serve: Adrian, Archie, Bates City, Belton, Blue Springs, Buckner, Butler, Cameron, Claycomo, Cleveland,  Drexel, Fairview,  Ferrelview,  Gladstone, Grain Valley, Grandview, Greenwood, Houston Lake, Independence, Kansas City Missouri, Kearney, , Knob Noster, Lake Lotawana, Lake Tapawingo, Lake Waukomis, Lake Winnebago, Lawson, Lee’s Summit, Liberty, North Kansas City, Oak Grove, Oakview,  Parkville, Peculiar,, Platte City, Platte Woods, Plattsburg, Pleasant Hill,  Raymore, Raytown, Riverside, Smithville, Sugar Creek, Tracy,  Warrensberg, Weatherby Lake, and Weston.

Statewide: Missouri State Highway Patrol and Sheriff Counties we serve: Bates County, Cass County, Clay County, Jackson County, Platte County, Ray County.

Contact us if your ticket is not on this list so our experienced Kansas City domestic assault defense lawyers near me in Missouri can be of assistance.

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