Homicide Lawyer Savannah, MO

Homicide lawyer in Savannah, MO. Facing a homicide charge in Savannah, MO is one of the most severe legal challenges anyone can encounter. These charges carry serious consequences, including lengthy prison sentences or even the death penalty. If you have been accused of homicide in Savannah, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, you need to speak with an experienced homicide lawyer right away.

Don’t hesitate to call Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation. Discuss your case in detail with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our firm has handled more than 10,000 cases like yours with proven results.

The Different Types of Savannah, MO Homicide Charges

Homicide charges can differ based on the intent and situation surrounding the killing. It’s essential to grasp the various types of homicide charges that may be relevant:

First-Degree Murder

First-degree murder in Savannah, MO involves a planned and intentional killing. This charge is classified as a class A felony, typically resulting in life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, or even the death penalty, depending on the specifics of the case.

Second-Degree Murder

Second-degree murder involves an intentional killing that was not premeditated. Also a class A felony, this offense can carry prison sentences ranging from 10 to 30 years, or even life. This differs from the first degree in that you may qualify for parole after serving more than 85 percent of the sentence.

Manslaughter:

Manslaughter is defined as the unlawful killing of another individual without the intention to take their life. It can be classified as voluntary – occurring in a moment of passion – or involuntary – resulting from reckless or negligent conduct. Manslaughter is categorized as a class B or class C felony.

Vehicular Manslaughter

This charge refers to the act of causing someone’s death through reckless or negligent driving. Charges may range from a misdemeanor to a felony, and the penalties for vehicular manslaughter depend on whether substances like drugs or alcohol, or factors such as extreme recklessness, were involved.

What Do I Do If I’m Accused Of Homicide in Savannah, MO?

Homicide is a manner of death, when one individual causes the death of another. Not all homicide is murder though, as some deaths caused by another individual are manslaughter, and some are lawful – like when justified by an affirmative defense, such as insanity or self-defense.

If you are facing homicide charges in Savannah, MO, it’s a grave situation. Understanding the steps to take after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is essential. Our experienced Savannah, MO homicide legal team recommends the following actions:

• Hire an Attorney: It’s essential to have a competent Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney in Savannah, MO as soon as possible is crucial for achieving a favorable outcome. A qualified attorney can review police reports, gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and create a strong defense. They can also seek ways to have charges reduced or dismissed and formulate an effective trial strategy. Call us at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
• Remain Silent: When law enforcement informs you that “Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law” while reading you your Miranda rights, believe them. Making an ill-timed statement during an investigation could sway the case against you and offer prosecutors evidence to demonstrate your guilt. Having a good criminal defense lawyer in Savannah, MO is critical in this regard, as you would want to tell the truth but in the correct way.
• Remember You Are Presumed Innocent: Unfortunately, in today’s society, many individuals jump to conclusions, viewing an accusation as a sign of guilt. This perception can significantly impact your mental well-being and lead to decisions you would not normally make. Luckily for you, your Combs Waterkotte Savannah, MO homicide lawyer is aware of the challenges you’re facing and can help you find hope amid adversity.

The Importance of Hiring a Combs Waterkotte Savannah, MO Homicide Lawyer

If you’re facing homicide charges, the stakes are incredibly high in Savannah, MO. You shouldn’t gamble with your future or choose a lawyer based on an advertisement. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney could determine whether you receive a reduced sentence, achieve freedom, or face life imprisonment. Here’s how the Combs Waterkotte homicide legal team helps in Savannah, MO:

• Case Investigation: Our homicide lawyers will initiate a detailed investigation into your case, examining police reports, forensic evidence, witness statements, and any other material. They may also collaborate with private investigators and expert witnesses to effectively challenge the prosecution’s case.
• Spot Weaknesses in the Prosecution’s Argument: Our dedicated homicide attorneys will meticulously analyze every aspect of the case to uncover any flaws in the prosecution’s evidence. This could result in the dismissal of charges, a reduction in charges, or a successful acquittal.
• Verify That Your Rights Were Respected: Under Savannah, MO and Missouri law, as well as the U.S. Constitution’s Bill of Rights, you possess specific rights. These rights protect you and help ensure that our justice system remains fair and impartial. Our Savannah, MO criminal defense attorneys have unfortunately seen a number of situations where our clients’ rights were violated. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and securing your future throughout the Savannah, MO area. Here are three frequently violated rights during Savannah, MO homicide arrests and interrogations:
  • Violations of Due Process: When you are accused of homicide or any crime, you have the right to due process, ensuring fair treatment in the legal system. This includes being informed of the charges against you and the opportunity to respond. Additionally, you have the right to an impartial judge or jury to determine your guilt or innocence. Prosecutors must provide all exculpatory evidence. Withholding it is a violation of your due process rights.
  • Failure to Provide the Miranda Warning: In Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that law enforcement must inform you of your rights prior to any questioning. This includes the right to remain silent, your right to an attorney, as well as a warning that anything you say can be used against you in court. Police only need to read your Miranda rights if they detain and question you with the intent to use your statements in court. Although you may waive these rights, it’s advisable to assert your right to remain silent and contact a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer immediately at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.
  • Unlawful Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. Police need reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you and must have probable cause to make an arrest in Savannah, MO and beyond. This means they must present factual evidence to support their belief that a crime was or is being committed. Evidence gathered through unlawful searches may be deemed inadmissible in court.
• Provide Expert Witnesses: Combs Waterkotte works with a wide network of experts in the Savannah, MO area, from forensic scientists and ballistics experts to medical examiners and crime scene analysts. Our attorneys can enlist these experts to dispute the cause of death or other crucial factors in the case.
• Negotiate for Reduced Charges: A skilled and aggressive Savannah, MO homicide lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a guilty plea to a lesser charge, particularly if the evidence against you is overwhelming. The Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyers always act in your best interest. While they may provide guidance and expert legal advice, the final decision is yours.

If you’re accused of homicide in or around Savannah, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the ideal homicide lawyer in Savannah, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our knowledgeable homicide attorneys, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Savannah and beyond:

• Drivers License Reinstatement Attorney
• Careless Imprudent Driving Attorneys
• Weapons Crime Attorney

Reach Out to an Expert Savannah, MO Homicide Lawyer Now at Combs Waterkotte

As homicide in Savannah, MO is a serious felony offense, anyone facing such charges should connect with a homicide lawyer in Savannah, MO immediately. Our experienced legal team is well-versed in Missouri laws and is dedicated to working tirelessly to have your charges reduced or dismissed. If you’re facing a homicide charge in or around Savannah, MO, don’t delay.

Contact a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Savannah, MO today to protect your rights, your future, and to secure the best possible defense. Call (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, no-obligation case review.