Missouri law forbids brass knuckles in almost all circumstances
Criminal DefenseProtecting yourself if you get into a fight is something that anyone would want to do. It is important for you to know that how you protect yourself matters. Missouri laws sets some very harsh penalties for weapons-related crimes, so if you are facing one of these charges, you should learn all you can about the elements of the case.
Brass knuckles are one weapon that is forbidden in Missouri. The law strictly outlaws the manufacturing, possession, repair, transport and sale of brass knuckles in the state. Anyone who violates this law can face a Class D felony charge, which carries a sentence of up to four years in prison on a first offense and up to seven years on subsequent offenses.
One reason why brass knuckles fall under forbidden weapons is because of the extensive damage they can cause. Injuries to the nose and eyes are possible. Cuts, bruising, broken bones and concussions are also possible. They are viewed as an unfair advantage that might prove lethal in a fist fight.
For a person who is facing criminal charges for violating the law against brass knuckles, learning about the options for defending yourself against the charge might be in order. For example, there is a chance that the charge might only be a misdemeanor if you only showed the weapon to someone but didn’t have the intent to use it in a fight.
Each element of a criminal charge provides an opportunity to review evidence that might negate the element. This is one approach that might be suitable in a criminal defense against weapons charges, including those that have to do with brass knuckles.