An accusation of assault in Arkansas or Missouri is a serious matter and a conviction can come with steep consequences — legally, personally and financially. Regardless of the type of assault charges that have been brought against you, it’s best to have an experienced assault lawyer on your side who can protect your rights under the law. The Graham Law Firm PLLC provides aggressive advocacy and vigorous defense for clients who have been charged with assault.
If you’ve been accused of assault, the Constitution guarantees you certain rights. However, it’s critical to have an attorney on your side who can fight to defend them. The Graham Law Firm represents clients who are facing prosecution for various assault crimes in Missouri and Arkansas, including:
As a former public defender, attorney Lauren Graham possesses deep knowledge of the criminal justice system and extensive experience protecting the accused. She also has a solid comprehension of the strategies that a prosecutor will use and how to mount an effective defense to help you obtain a fair outcome for your assault case — whether by plea bargain or trial.
Missouri and Arkansas each have specific assault laws. While both states have different legal criteria to determine what constitutes an assault, it is generally defined as the act of inflicting — or attempting to cause — bodily harm to another. Both jurisdictions separate the charges by degree based on the severity of the crime and other facts.
Missouri law classifies assault by four degrees with corresponding penalties. Assault in the first degree can be charged as a Class B felony, resulting in 5-15 years imprisonment. Assault in the second, third, and fourth degrees are also punishable by jail time, as well as monetary fines. More serious assault charges may apply if an individual who qualifies as a special victim was involved, such as a law enforcement officer or a vulnerable person.
Similarly, Arkansas divides assault into three degrees punishable by jail time and fines. However, Arkansas also recognizes the separate crime of battery — which carries more serious consequences than assault in the state if convicted.
Assaults in Arkansas or Missouri can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies based on the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault and any aggravating factors. Nevertheless, a conviction can be life-changing. Not only might jail time and a substantial fine be imposed, but being found guilty of an assault can affect your ability to get a job, find a place to live, or own a firearm.
Anyone accused of an assault is innocent until proven guilty under the Constitution — you’re entitled to due process of law, a fair trial, and the right to not incriminate yourself. Whether you’ve been charged with assault, aggravated assault, sexual assault, or domestic assault, The Graham Law Firm can help you navigate the criminal justice system and will be on your side every step of the way.
The prosecution carries a challenging burden of proof in assault cases. Significantly, the State must demonstrate that you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt before you can be convicted of an assault crime. You have the right to have your case heard before a judge and a jury of your peers who will ultimately determine whether the prosecution has proven their case.
In Arkansas and Missouri, there are several defenses to assault charges under the law, including the justification of self-defense. Some cases may also warrant a flat-out denial of the charges brought against you. Additionally, you may be able to argue that you acted to prevent another person from experiencing physical harm or to stop a wrongdoer from causing damage to your property.
Regardless of whether you have a good defense, fighting an assault charge is not always easy. However, an assault lawyer who is committed to protecting your rights may be able to negotiate a plea deal with the prosecutor to reduce the charges against you. They may also be able to obtain a dismissal if the prosecution cannot present the evidence necessary to convict you. The Graham Law Firm will skillfully assess the best course of action for your case.
Sexual assault and rape are some of the most severe criminal accusations a person can face. Both Missouri and Arkansas categorize sexual assault by specific crimes, charges, and degree, depending on the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense. In addition to being punishable as a felony or misdemeanor, a conviction of a sexual assault crime can result in your having to register as a sex offender and impact your employment, educational, and housing opportunities.
If you were charged with a sexual assault offense in Arkansas or Missouri, it’s imperative to contact a sexual assault lawyer immediately. The Graham Law Firm will carefully evaluate any evidence against you and work diligently to defend your rights.
Domestic assault in Arkansas and Missouri is a crime that involves an assault against a spouse, family member, or someone in the same household. This type of assault is a serious offense that can carry harsh penalties including jail time and other repercussions. In many instances, domestic assault cases also can involve an Order of Protection being issued against you, potentially affecting your parental rights.
Getting charges reduced or dismissed in a domestic assault case can be challenging — even if the person who made the complaint drops the charges against you, the prosecution can still move forward with the case. This is why it’s necessary to have a proficient assault defense attorney by your side. The Graham Law Firm will weigh any evidence against you and provide a thorough and effective defense.
Attorney Lauren Graham dedicates her practice to ensuring clients receive personalized attention and high-quality legal services. As a former public defender, she knows what it takes to develop a solid defense strategy in criminal assault cases. Located in Paragould, Arkansas, The Graham Law Firm provides trusted counsel for clients in Arkansas and Missouri who are facing assault accusations in both jurisdictions. Contact The Graham Law Firm today to schedule a consultation with a tireless assault defense attorney who will fight for your rights.
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