Being charged with a violent crime in Missouri is one of the most serious situations you can face in the criminal justice system. Whether it’s assault, robbery, armed criminal action, or even homicide, these cases carry the possibility of long prison sentences, steep fines, and permanent felony records.

If you’ve been arrested or learned you’re under investigation in the state of Missouri, call KC Defense Counsel immediately. Our experienced Missouri violent crimes defense attorneys want you to know everything you’re up against as you face charges and what you should do immediately to protect yourself.

DO NOT TALK TO POLICE WITHOUT A LAWYER

When facing a violent crime charge, many people feel the urge to “explain their side of the story” to the police. This is almost always a mistake. Anything you say will be used against you, and prosecutors are trained to twist even innocent statements into damaging evidence.

Instead, exercise your constitutional right to remain silent. A simple, respectful statement works best:

“I want to remain silent and speak with my attorney.”

Then, call KC Defense Counsel right away.

UNDERSTAND THE SERIOUSNESS OF THE CHARGES

Violent crimes in Missouri are usually classified as felonies, often in the higher classes (A–C). Examples include:

Assault in the 1st or 2nd degree
Domestic assault (felony level)
Robbery
Armed criminal action
Homicide (murder or manslaughter)

Penalties can range from several years in prison to life sentences in the most serious cases. Even a “lesser” violent felony can destroy job opportunities, housing options, and civil rights (like gun ownership).

DO NOT CONTACT THE ALLEGED VICTIM

Courts almost always issue no-contact orders in violent crime cases. Trying to reach out to the alleged victim — even to apologize or “clear things up” — can lead to new charges and make your case much harder to fight.

Communicate only through your attorney.

HIRE AN EXPERIENCED KANSAS CITY CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER IMMEDIATELY

Violent crime cases move quickly and prosecutors often push for harsh penalties. You need a lawyer who knows Missouri courts, judges, and prosecutors. An experienced Kansas City defense attorney can:

Review whether the evidence was obtained legally.
Challenge unreliable witnesses or shaky police reports.
Investigate whether the alleged act was self-defense.
Negotiate to reduce charges or seek alternative sentencing.
Defend you aggressively at trial if necessary.

Waiting too long to hire counsel means giving prosecutors a head start.

EXPLORE POSSIBLE DEFENSE STRATEGIES WITH YOUR ATTORNEY

Every case is unique, but common defenses in violent crime cases include:

Self-defense or defense of others (especially under Missouri’s Stand Your Ground law).
Lack of intent — showing the act wasn’t intentional.
Mistaken identity — proving you weren’t the person involved.
Unreliable evidence — attacking inconsistent or false testimony.

Your lawyer’s job is to examine every detail and build the strongest defense possible.

PREPARE OF THE LONG PROCESS OF THE MISSOURI COURT JUDICIAL SYSTEM

Violent crime cases often take months — or even years — to resolve. Be prepared for multiple hearings, pretrial motions, and possibly a jury trial. Staying patient and trusting your defense strategy is critical.

CALL KC DEFENSE COUNSEL TODAY

When your future, freedom, and reputation are on the line, you need a Kansas City violent crimes defense lawyer who knows how to fight for you. At KC Defense Counsel, we have successfully defended clients across Missouri against charges ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Don’t face the police, prosecutors, or the courtroom alone — our experienced attorneys are here to protect your rights and tell your side of the story.

Call KC Defense Counsel today for a free, confidential case evaluation and start building the defense you deserve.

Violent crime charges in Missouri are among the most serious, often carrying long prison sentences.
Never talk to police without an attorney present.
Do not contact the alleged victim under any circumstances.
Hiring a skilled Kansas City criminal defense lawyer immediately is the most important step you can take.
Defenses exist — from self-defense to mistaken identity — but you need a strong legal team to make them work.

At KC Defense Counsel, our affordable Kansas City criminal defense lawyers have defended clients across Kansas City facing everything from assault to homicide charges. We know what’s at stake, and we know how to fight back against aggressive prosecutors.

If you or a loved one has been charged with a violent crime in Missouri, call us today for a free, confidential consultation. Your freedom — and your future — depend on it.

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 our experienced Kansas City traffic defense lawyers near me in Missouri and let us help begin building your defense. Let us help.

Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Always consult qualified counsel regarding your unique situation.