St. Joseph Violent Crime Lawyers

Penalties for violent crime convictions in Missouri vary depending on the severity of the offense, the specific circumstances surrounding the crime, and whether the defendant has prior criminal convictions. Violent crimes are treated seriously by Missouri law, and the penalties for these offenses can result in significant prison time, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. 

Below are some of the most common violent crimes in Missouri and the associated penalties:

Murder

Murder charges in Missouri are classified into two degrees, each carrying severe penalties.

• First-Degree Murder: This is the most serious homicide charge, involving the premeditated and intentional killing of another person. It is a Class A felony, and a conviction can result in life imprisonment without the possibility of parole or, in some cases, the death penalty. In Missouri, the death penalty is still a possibility in certain first-degree murder cases.
• Second-Degree Murder: This charge involves the intentional killing of another person but without premeditation. It is a Class A felony, punishable by 10 to 30 years in prison, or life imprisonment with the possibility of parole.

Manslaughter

Manslaughter is a lesser charge than murder but still carries significant penalties. There are two types of manslaughter charges:

• Voluntary Manslaughter: This charge typically arises when a person causes another's death in the heat of passion, usually as a result of provocation. It is a Class B felony, punishable by 5 to 15 years in prison.
• Involuntary Manslaughter: This occurs when a person causes the death of another person recklessly or during the commission of a non-violent felony. It is a Class C felony, punishable by 3 to 10 years in prison.

Assault 

Assault charges in Missouri vary depending on the level of injury caused to the victim and the intent of the defendant. The penalties for assault can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies:

• First-Degree Assault: This involves intentionally causing serious physical injury to someone or using a weapon to harm another person. It is a Class A felony, punishable by 10 to 30 years in prison or life imprisonment.
• Second-Degree Assault: This charge involves knowingly causing physical injury or recklessly causing serious injury. It is a Class D felony or Class C felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison, depending on the specifics of the case.
• Third-Degree Assault: This is the least severe form of assault and involves causing minor injury or making threats of harm. It is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or fines.

Robbery

Robbery is defined as taking property from another person by force, threat of force, or intimidation. There are two degrees of robbery in Missouri:

• First-Degree Robbery: This involves using a deadly weapon or causing serious injury during the commission of the robbery. It is a Class A felony, punishable by 10 to 30 years in prison or life imprisonment.
• Second-Degree Robbery: This charge involves committing robbery without a deadly weapon but still using force or the threat of force. It is a Class B felony, punishable by 5 to 15 years in prison.

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence offenses are taken very seriously in Missouri. These crimes typically involve violence or threats of violence against a spouse, partner, or family member. Penalties can vary depending on the circumstances:

• First-Degree Domestic Assault: This charge involves intentionally causing serious injury or using a weapon in a domestic setting. It is a Class A felony, punishable by 10 to 30 years in prison or life imprisonment.
• Second-Degree Domestic Assault: This is typically a Class D felony, punishable by 3 to 7 years in prison.
• Third-Degree Domestic Assault: This can be a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or fines.

Sentencing Enhancements

Certain factors can enhance the penalties for violent crime convictions in Missouri, including:

• Prior Convictions: Defendants with prior felony convictions may face enhanced sentences, especially for repeat offenses.
• Use of a Firearm: If a firearm was used during the commission of a violent crime, the penalties may be increased under Missouri's sentencing enhancement laws.
• Hate Crimes: Violent crimes committed with a bias or discriminatory intent, such as those based on race, religion, or sexual orientation, may carry additional penalties under Missouri’s hate crime statutes.
• Victim Impact: If the victim of a violent crime suffered significant harm, the court may impose harsher penalties during sentencing.

Defenses Against Violent Crime Charges in St. Joseph

A St. Joseph violent crimes lawyer can explore a range of defense strategies to challenge the prosecution’s case. Self-defense is a common defense, where the defendant argues they used reasonable force to protect themselves from imminent harm. If the prosecution fails to prove that the force was excessive, this defense could lead to a dismissal or a not-guilty verdict. In cases of false accusations, a skilled attorney can investigate the situation, uncover evidence of mistaken identity or fabricated claims, and seek to prove the allegations are unfounded.

Other potential defenses include a lack of evidence, where the prosecution cannot prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt, or an alibi, where credible evidence or witnesses can confirm the defendant’s absence from the crime scene. Additionally, involuntary actions, such as intoxication or mental illness, may explain a defendant's conduct, and if demonstrated effectively, this could lead to a reduction in charges or a dismissal. An experienced St. Joseph violent crimes lawyer will assess the case thoroughly to determine the best possible defense strategy.

Contact Us Now for a Strategic Defense Consultation

If you are facing charges for a violent crime, do not wait to contact Kranitz, Sadoun & Carpenter. Our St. Joseph violent crimes lawyers can help you understand your legal options and work to build a strong defense strategy on your behalf. We are available to take your call 24/7 and offer legal services.

Call (816) 551-2482 or submit an online request form to schedule your defense strategy session.