Determined Salem Lawyers Seek Justice for the Accused

Respected Missouri advocates represent clients in misdemeanor and felony criminal defense matters

If you are accused of a crime, you need to know your options as quickly as possible. At Parker Law LLC in Salem, we fight to protect the rights of people charged with felony and misdemeanor offenses. Our firm represents individuals throughout Central Missouri in cases involving a wide range of allegations. With more than three decades of combined legal experience, we have seen and can handle even the most complex criminal cases and are extremely skilled at building unique and aggressive defense strategies to support our clients. Whether you were arrested in connection with an involuntary manslaughter count, charged with DWI or questioned in connection with murder, we will assess the charges against you and vehemently contest the prosecution’s allegations based on our review of the relevant evidence.

What does it mean to be charged with a misdemeanor vs. a felony offense?

Any criminal issue can completely upend your life, but the seriousness of the crime and the sentence you could receive if convicted depend on whether it is charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies and typically involve lower levels of injury or financial loss to another person. Thus, assessed fines are smaller and the maximum jail sentence is one year. Felony acts involve more significant bodily or monetary injury and are considered much more serious. A conviction could mean decades in prison and the permanent loss of freedom and other important rights. Every criminal matter deserves a strong defense, and we will develop detailed legal strategies to support your case.

What are the consequences of DWI?

DWI stops, even for a first-time offense, make you subject to criminal punishment and administrative penalties. You face up to six months in jail, a $1,000 fine and license suspension (though restricted driving privileges may be granted). Even before your criminal case is adjudicated, your license will automatically be taken away unless you request a hearing within 15 days of the arrest. Repeat offenders face felony charges and harsher sentences, including significant time in prison, years of probation and high fines. Every DWI case is unique, and we know how to effectively challenge breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests, unlawful searches and any other improperly collected evidence.

What is the difference between manslaughter and homicide under Missouri law?

Understanding the distinction between manslaughter and homicide can be confusing, but vitally important if you are being accused of one of these crimes. Generally, a person’s intent and whether the death was planned determine which offense would apply. More specifically, manslaughter and homicide are defined as follows:

  • First degree homicide — A deliberate and knowing act intended to cause the death of another.
  • Second degree homicide — Death that was caused knowingly, following a severe injury or during the commission of a felony.
  • Voluntary manslaughter — Death arising out of a heightened state of passion with sufficient cause.
  • Involuntary manslaughter — Death caused by a reckless or criminally negligent, but unintentional act.

These offenses bring dire implications if convicted and require an attorney who fully understands the applicable law. We are skilled at fighting these highly complex cases and will not rest in our pursuit of a just result.

Contact a responsive Missouri law firm to schedule a free initial consultation

At Parker Law LLC, we understand the difficulties accused individuals routinely face and represent clients throughout Central Missouri in all types of criminal defense matters. Call 573-453-9078 or contact us online as soon as possible to schedule a free consultation at our Salem, MO office.