Criminal defense attorney in Missouri River, MO. Being arrested or accused of a crime can be one of the most overwhelming moments of your life. But a criminal charge is not the end of your story. With an experienced criminal defense attorney in Missouri River, MO from Combs Waterkotte by your side, you can protect your rights, fight for your freedom, and move forward with confidence.
At Combs Waterkotte, we believe every client deserves a powerful defense and a fair chance to rebuild their life. Our Missouri River, MO criminal defense lawyers handle everything from misdemeanors and felonies to complex federal cases. We take a proactive, strategic approach—building your case with precision, compassion, and determination.
Our legal team has over 60 years of combined criminal defense experience and has handled over 10,000 cases just like yours. Our record of success speaks for itself, reflecting our unwavering commitment to results and respect. If you’re facing a criminal charge in the Missouri River, MO area, call us right away at (314) 900-HELP, or contact us online, for a free, confidential consultation.
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Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs discusses how he negotiates the most favorable plea bargaining deals for his clients. You can read a transcript of the interview below.
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Can your criminal case get dismissed? How can your defense attorney get your case dismissed? Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs discusses what needs to happen to have your charges …
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Article Summary
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Missouri River, MO, the information here could make a real difference in your case. This page outlines what every defendant needs to know about Missouri criminal law — from your first moments after arrest to how our attorneys at Combs Waterkotte fight to protect your freedom and reputation.
Read on to learn:
- What to do right after being arrested in Missouri River, MO
- How state and federal criminal processes differ—and what that means for you
- The penalties for Missouri felonies and misdemeanors
- How our attorneys defend clients in drug, assault, fraud, DUI, sex crime, and homicide cases
- Why thousands across Missouri trust our firm when their future is on the line
- How our experience and strategy can help you secure the best possible outcome in Missouri River, MO.
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What You Should Do Right After an Arrest in Missouri River, MO
Being arrested in Missouri River, MO can be an overwhelming and intimidating experience. Whether it’s your first encounter with the criminal justice system or not, what you do in the moments immediately following your arrest can greatly influence the outcome of your case. Follow these critical steps to protect your rights and strengthen your defense from the very beginning:
Step 1: Keep Calm and Avoid Resistance
No matter how unfair or unnecessary the arrest may feel, it’s essential to remain composed. Arguing or resisting, even verbally, can lead to additional charges in Missouri River, MO. Keep your hands visible, follow all lawful instructions, and avoid sudden movements. Remember, your behavior is being closely observed and could later become part of the evidence against you.
Step 2: Stay Silent and Ask for an Attorney
After giving your basic information, stop talking. You have the right to remain silent, and exercising it can make all the difference in your case. Politely say, “I choose to remain silent and would like to speak with my lawyer.” Don’t try to explain or tell your side of the story on the spot—that’s your attorney’s job. Anything you say now can be twisted and used against you later in court.
Step 3: Ask for a Missouri River, MO Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately
Before you answer any questions or sign anything, make it clear that you want to speak with your attorney. This is your constitutional right, and invoking it is one of the most important decisions you can make. When you have an experienced Missouri River, MO criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte on your side from the very beginning, you can be confident that:
- Law enforcement and investigators must go through your lawyer for all communication
- We can ensure your rights are protected from the start
- Our team can start gathering and preserving key evidence immediately in Missouri River, MO
- You can reach us 24 hours a day anywhere in the Missouri River, MO area and beyond—day or night, weekends and holidays included.
Step 4: Don’t Talk About Your Missouri River, MO Case
Do not discuss your arrest or charges with friends, family, or anyone else—especially online or through text. Prosecutors can subpoena social media posts, messages, or even casual statements made to others. Only speak about your Missouri River, MO case with your attorney and legal team.
Step 5: Don’t Consent to Searches Without a Warrant
Police may ask for your consent to search your car, home, or phone in the Missouri River, MO area. You have the right to refuse consent unless they present a valid warrant. Politely say, “I do not consent to any searches.”
If police collect evidence without a valid warrant, that evidence can often be thrown out in court. This single step could make or break your case.
Step 6: Get Out on Bail or Release Quickly
After being booked into a Missouri River, MO detention facility, you may qualify for bail or release on your own recognizance, depending on the charges. An experienced Missouri River, MO criminal defense attorney can act quickly to:
- File for a bond reduction hearing
- Argue for your release pending trial
- Work with bail bondsmen to secure your freedom quickly
- Help you return to work, care for family, and assist in building your defense
Step 7: Record Every Detail You Can Remember
Write down everything about your arrest while it’s still fresh in your mind—what the officers said, when and where you were detained, who witnessed it, and any searches that occurred. These details can be invaluable later in identifying procedural violations, challenging the arrest, or exposing police misconduct.
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A felony can have long-term consequences. Act quickly and carefully to protect your future and your livelihood.
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Wondering what happens after your felony arrest? The skilled Combs Waterkotte attorneys have the answers.
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Contact the experienced Combs Waterkotte felony lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP to get started on your defense.
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When you partner with a Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney in or around Missouri River, MO, you’re not just selecting a top-rated criminal defense attorney in Missouri River, MO and throughout Missouri – you are safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys, our staff is available 24/7 and provides experience and expertise in the following areas for residents in Missouri River and beyond:
A Full-Service Missouri River, MO Criminal Defense Firm
At Combs Waterkotte, our experienced Missouri River, MO criminal defense attorneys represent clients facing every type of criminal charge—from minor traffic violations and misdemeanors to the most serious felony and federal cases.
Our legal team defends clients throughout Missouri River, MO in cases such as:
- DWI Defense
- Assault and Battery
- Domestic Violence
- Drug Charges & Possession
- Drug Trafficking
- Weapons & Gun Crimes
- Sex Crimes
- Theft & Larceny
- Credit Card & Financial Fraud
- Homicide & Manslaughter
- Probation Violations
- Motor Vehicle Tampering
- View all practice areas
Missouri River, MO Federal Crime Lawyer You Can Trust
Being charged with a federal crime is vastly different, and far more serious, than facing charges in state court. Federal prosecutors have nearly unlimited resources, extensive investigative power, and a conviction rate of over 90%, according to Pew Research.
At Combs Waterkotte, our Missouri River, MO federal criminal defense attorneys have the skill, experience, and tenacity to take on even the toughest opponents—including the U.S. Department of Justice. We defend clients charged with a wide range of federal offenses, such as:
- Federal Drug Trafficking
- Federal Wire Fraud
- Federal Mail Fraud
- Federal Internet Fraud
- Federal Tax Evasions & Fraud
- Federal White Collar Crimes
- Federal Espionage & National Security Violations
- Federal Computer & Cyber Crimes
- Federal Kidnapping
- Federal Embezzlement
- Federal Conspiracy
Federal prosecutors are relentless—their goal is conviction, not compromise. They routinely pressure defendants into plea agreements that carry harsh prison terms and permanent criminal records. At Combs Waterkotte, we take a different approach. Our attorneys meticulously scrutinize every detail of the case, challenge the government’s evidence, uncover procedural violations, and fight to have charges reduced or dismissed long before a plea becomes necessary.
Learn more about how we handle Missouri River, MO federal criminal cases, what makes them unique, and how they are different from state cases.
Free book
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Protect Your Rights and Future
Combs Waterkotte has over 60 years of experience and over 10,000 cases handled. This ebook helps guide you through the criminal defense process and how an experienced, skilled defense attorney can keep your freedoms intact.
Missouri River Criminal Charges and Consequences Under Missouri Law
Even a minor conviction in Missouri River, MO can have lasting consequences. A misdemeanor may result in fines, probation, or jail time, while a felony conviction can bring years in state prison and permanently restrict your rights—including your ability to vote, own firearms, or hold certain jobs.
Missouri law bars convicted felons from owning firearms, serving on juries, or holding public office. Many must also disclose their conviction status when applying for jobs or housing, creating lasting barriers even after they’ve served their time.
But there are opportunities for a fresh start. Missouri law allows individuals to restore their rights through expungement, pardons, or record sealing. The Missouri River, MO criminal defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte can help you explore every available legal avenue to rebuild your life and reclaim your future.
St. Louis County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in St. Louis County and Missouri.
Felony Classifications and Penalties in Missouri River, MO
Felonies in Missouri are classified by severity, each carrying its own range of punishments:
- Class A Felony — minimum of 10 years and no more than 30 years in prison, or life in prison
- Class B Felony — 5 to 15 years in prison
- Class C Felony — 3 to 10 years in prison
- Class D Felony — no more than 7 years in prison
- Class E Felony — up to 4 years in prison
Factors like prior offenses, use of weapons, or crimes motivated by bias can increase the severity of a charge and the sentence you face. The good news is that a knowledgeable Missouri River, MO criminal defense lawyer can often step in early to negotiate reduced charges, alternative sentencing options, or even a complete dismissal — helping you protect your record and your future.
Understanding Misdemeanor Charges in Missouri River, MO
Misdemeanors are categorized into four classes in Missouri:
- Class A Misdemeanor — Up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000
- Class B Misdemeanor — Up to 6 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000
- Class C Misdemeanor — Up to 15 days in jail and fines up to $700
- Class D Misdemeanor — Fines up to $500
The good news? Many misdemeanor offenders are eligible for alternatives to jail — such as probation, diversion programs, or record expungement. The dedicated Missouri River, MO defense team at Combs Waterkotte will fight to keep your record clean and your life on track.
Why Hire Combs Waterkotte as Your Criminal Defense Lawyer in Missouri River, MO?
When your freedom and reputation are at stake, experience and strategy make all the difference. At Combs Waterkotte, our defense philosophy is built on preparation, client trust, and a proven record of results. With over six decades of combined experience, our team offers unmatched dedication and insight into the Missouri River, MO court system:
- Personal Attention, 24/7: We’re always available when you need us in Missouri River, MO—day or night. Our team takes time to understand your concerns, explain your options, and guide you every step of the way. You’ll never feel left in the dark about your case.
- Trial-Tested Defense: We prepare every case like it’s going to court. That mindset not only strengthens your defense but gives us a clear advantage during plea negotiations and trial proceedings.
- Extensive Resources: We utilize expert witnesses, forensic specialists, and private investigators to uncover critical details that can make or break your case.
- Experience & Expertise in Missouri River. MO: With decades of combined courtroom experience in Missouri River, MO and across Missouri, our criminal defense attorneys know the judges, prosecutors, and unique procedures in local courts—and how to use that knowledge to your advantage.
When your future is at stake, you deserve a Missouri River, MO defense team that’s experienced, aggressive, and completely committed to protecting your freedom.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Missouri River, MO
I was just arrested in Missouri River, MO. What should I do?
The most important thing is to stay calm and say nothing until you speak with a lawyer. Anything you say could be used against you. Call (314) 900-HELP or contact Combs Waterkotte immediately—our team can guide you through what to expect, handle communications with law enforcement, and start building your defense from day one.
What’s the difference between state and federal charges?
State charges are handled by Missouri courts and usually involve violations of state laws. Federal charges, on the other hand, are prosecuted by U.S. attorneys and often involve interstate activity or federal agencies. Federal cases carry stricter sentencing guidelines and typically require more extensive defense strategies.
Is it possible to avoid jail time for a criminal charge in Missouri River, MO?
Often, yes. Every case is different, but our Missouri River, MO defense lawyers frequently secure outcomes like probation, community service, or diversion programs that keep clients out of jail, especially those with clean records or low-level charges.
Will a criminal conviction stay on my record forever?
Not always. Missouri allows for expungement of certain crimes after a waiting period. Our Missouri River, MO criminal defense attorneys can determine if you qualify for expungement and help clear your record.
What happens if I’m charged with a felony but have no prior record?
Having a clean record can work in your favor. Courts often view a lack of prior convictions as a mitigating factor, which can lead to reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or even dismissal. With skilled representation from a Missouri River, MO criminal defense attorney, you have a far greater chance of avoiding severe penalties.
Can Combs Waterkotte still help if I already pled guilty?
Yes. Our attorneys regularly handle post-conviction relief cases, including appeals, motions for sentence reduction, and other remedies. Contact us right away—strict time limits may apply to your case, so acting quickly is essential.
Take Control of Your Future. Call Combs Waterkotte to Hire Your Missouri River, MO Criminal Defense Attorney Now.
The Missouri River, MO criminal defense attorney you choose could determine your entire future. Don’t leave that to chance. While public defenders are often overwhelmed and other attorneys might shy away from trial, we at Combs Waterkotte fight every case as if your freedom depends on it—because it does.
Our firm places total client satisfaction at the heart of everything we do. When you choose Combs Waterkotte, you can be confident that you will receive 24/7 access to the Missouri River, MO criminal defense lawyer working on your case. No matter where you are, what time it is, or your present circumstances, you can talk to us about your case, the legal process, or anything else.
Don’t roll the dice. Make Combs Waterkotte your first call. Give us a call today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a case review and we can get started on your defense in Missouri River, MO.
