Homicide lawyer in Union, MO. Facing a homicide charge in Union, 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 Union, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, you need to speak with an experienced homicide lawyer right away.
Contact Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a free, one-on-one consultation. You’ll have the chance to discuss the specifics of your case with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our seasoned team has successfully handled over 10,000 cases just like yours.
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The Different Types of Union, MO Homicide Charges
Homicide charges can differ significantly based on the circumstances surrounding the act and the intent behind it. Understanding the various types of homicide charges in Union, MO that may apply is crucial:
First-Degree Murder
First-degree murder is the most serious homicide charge, involving a deliberate and premeditated act. This offense is classified as a class A felony, often resulting in a life sentence without the possibility of parole, or even the death penalty, depending on the details of the case.
Second-Degree Murder
Second-degree murder encompasses intentional killings that occur without premeditation. This charge is also a class A felony and can lead to sentences of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment. Unlike murder in the first degree, individuals convicted of this crime may qualify for parole after serving at least 85 percent of their sentence.
Manslaughter:
Manslaughter is the unlawful killing of someone without the intent to end their life. It can be categorized as voluntary – triggered by a sudden emotional reaction – or involuntary – resulting from careless or reckless actions. This offense is classified as a class B or class C felony.
Vehicular Manslaughter
This involves causing an individual’s death through reckless or negligent driving. Charges range from a misdemeanor to a felony, and penalties for vehicular manslaughter vary depending on whether drugs, alcohol, or extreme recklessness were involved.
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What Steps Should I Take if Accused of Homicide in Union, MO?
Homicide occurs 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’re accused of homicide in Union, MO, it is a serious matter. Knowing what to do after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is crucial, and our skilled Union, MO homicide legal team suggests you take the following steps:
- Contact a Lawyer: It’s essential to have a competent Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Union, MO by your side as soon as possible to help ensure a successful outcome. A good lawyer can help review police reports, gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and create a solid defense. They can also explore opportunities to reduce or dismiss charges and devise an effective trial plan. Reach us at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
- Do Not Say Anything: When law enforcement informs you that “Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law” during the reading of your Miranda rights, heed their warning. Making statements during investigations could potentially change the outcome of your case and give prosecutors ample material to prove guilt. It’s essential to have a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Union, MO who can help you navigate this situation and articulate your side appropriately.
- Understand You are Innocent Until Proven Guilty: Unfortunately, in today’s society, many individuals jump to conclusions, viewing an accusation as a sign of guilt. This can deeply alter your mental health and lead to decisions you would not normally make. Thankfully, your Combs Waterkotte Union, MO homicide lawyer understands what you are going through.
Franklin County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Franklin County and Missouri.
Why You Should Hire a Combs Waterkotte Homicide Lawyer in Union, MO
If you’re facing homicide charges, the stakes are incredibly high in Union, MO. You shouldn’t gamble with your future or choose a lawyer based on an advertisement. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney can mean the difference between a lighter sentence or even freedom and spending years in prison. Here’s how the Combs Waterkotte homicide legal team can support you in Union, MO:
- Thorough Case Analysis: Our homicide legal team will launch a thorough investigation into the facts of the case, reviewing police reports, forensic evidence, witness testimonies, and any other material. They may also collaborate with private investigators and expert witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Find Gaps in the Prosecution’s Case: Our dedicated homicide attorneys will scrutinize every detail of the case to uncover any flaws in the prosecution’s evidence. This could lead to a dismissal of charges, a plea reduction, or an acquittal.
- Make Sure Your Rights Weren’t Violated: Under Union, 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. Unfortunately, our Union, MO criminal defense attorneys have witnessed many instances where clients’ rights were compromised. We are committed to defending your rights and securing your future throughout the Union, MO area. Three of the most violated rights in Union, MO homicide arrests and interrogations are:
- Due Process Violations: When accused of homicide, or any crime for that matter, you have the right to due process, ensuring fair treatment throughout the legal system. This includes being informed of the charges against you and having the chance 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 Read the Miranda Warning: According to Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court determined that police must inform you of your rights before questioning. This includes your right to remain silent, your right to a lawyer, and the warning that anything said can be used in court. Officers 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.
- Illegal Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures. Police need reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you and must have probable cause to make an arrest in Union, MO and beyond. This means they must provide 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: Our team at Combs Waterkotte collaborates with a broad array of experts in and around Union, MO, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can enlist these experts to dispute critical factors in your case, including the cause of death.
- Advocate for Lesser Charges: An experienced and proactive Union, MO homicide attorney can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a plea to a lesser offense, especially if the evidence against you is overwhelming. At Combs Waterkotte, our attorneys prioritize your interests, guiding you while allowing you to make the final decision.
When you’re facing homicide charges in Union, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the leading homicide lawyer in Union, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our experienced homicide attorneys, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Union and beyond:
Consult an Experienced Homicide Lawyer in Union, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
Since homicide is a serious felony crime, it’s essential for anyone facing these charges to speak with a Union, MO homicide attorney right away. Our experienced legal team has a deep understanding of Missouri laws and will do everything in its power to make sure your charges are dropped or reduced. If you’re dealing with a homicide charge in or around Union, MO, don’t delay.
Get in touch with a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Union, MO today to protect your rights and future while ensuring the best possible defense. Call (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a no-obligation case assessment.
