St. Louis assault lawyer for serious charges

Understanding violent crime allegations

What these charges include and why they matter

Violent crimes in Missouri include assault, domestic assault, robbery, armed criminal action, manslaughter, and homicide. Even a misdemeanor can bring jail time and a permanent record. A felony can mean years in prison. The Law Offices of Stephen A. Zarky represents clients in St. Louis County, the City of St. Louis, and nearby courts in St. Charles, Jefferson, and Franklin. Early strategy meetings often focus on preserving evidence like 911 recordings, home camera footage, and medical records that can support self-defense or reduce the severity of a charge. When neighbors in Tower Grove or South County search for a local answer on what happens next, they want clear steps and a plan they can follow.

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Missouri assault laws and penalties

Degrees of assault and potential consequences

Missouri classifies assault by degrees. First degree involves attempting to kill or causing serious injury. Second degree includes injury with a dangerous instrument or injury related to suspected intoxicated driving. Third degree covers certain injury or attempt scenarios and may be charged as a misdemeanor. Domestic assault has its own tiered structure. The level charged affects possible prison terms, fines, and collateral consequences like firearm rights. For cases filed in Clayton, downtown, or Hillsboro, Stephen explains how local prosecutors approach plea offers and what proof the State must show at each stage.

How Stephen Zarky builds your defense

Investigation, challenges, and trial preparation

01.

Thorough Investigation

Expect early interviews with witnesses, preservation of video, and a review of injury photos. Where self-defense fits the facts, Stephen develops that evidence and prepares to present it clearly to a jury.

02.

Challenging The Prosecution

Violent cases often hinge on credibility. Inconsistencies, motives to fabricate, and suggestive identifications are examined and challenged through motions and cross-examination.

03.

Trial-Tested In Serious Felonies

If a fair offer is not available, Stephen is ready to try the case. His preparation signals that the defense will not concede a conviction without the State meeting its burden.

When a domestic case overlaps with sexual allegations, it helps to review criminal defense options across related charges and courts before making decisions about pleas or trial settings.

Please consider Stephen as your lawyer for any of your legal needs. He communicates with you actively. Thoroughly explains all processes concerning your case also guarantees and provides the best outcome concerning your situation. He’s truly amazing I’ve referred him to everyone I know and will continue to use him as representation for any legal matter that comes up in the future.

I give steven a 5.0+ more he is a goodblawyer. The only lawyer i have ever hired and will be the only one i will go to. He is understanding in alot of situations and from what i have seen from meeting up with him to pay him he will help people. Thanks steven.

Best Attorney around!! He will fight hard and smart for you. He helped my family member prove her innocence. I am so grateful to Stephen for everything he's done and would recommend him as one of the best choices for an attorney in St Louis.

Excellent lawyer handle my case with Care I would recommend him to anyone he helped me out I thank you so much Stephen A. Zarky

This guy is absolutely amazing very professional very trust worthy ,Go beyond to make sure he fight and do what is right for your case . He has some type of special gift that he knows what is right. I’m very grateful and Thankful For Him. Thank you 🙏🏽 God Bless☺️

Stephen was the first attorney I've ever needed. I'm not gonna lie, I had my doubts about him all the way until my hearing, but he managed to work out a great deal with the prosecutor. I never should have doubted him. I never write reviews, but I'll make the exception for Stephen. He's that good, and he's definitely worth the money.
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 Real client words and results

Real stories from real clients

Questions people ask about assault charges

Direct answers you can use today

Three people in suits at a table. A man points to a document; another man sits opposite, and a woman sits behind them.
  • Can the victim drop the case?

    The State controls the charge. A victim’s request may influence outcomes, but prosecutors make the final decision.

  • What if I acted in self-defense?

    Self-defense is a recognized legal defense. Evidence of reasonable fear, injuries consistent with defense, and witness statements can support it.

  • Will I go to jail on a first offense?

    It depends on the level and facts. Many first-time offenders avoid jail with strong advocacy and targeted mitigation.

When timing is tight, many people request a free consultation to review bond conditions and no-contact orders before the first court appearance.