Homicide lawyer in New Madrid County, MO. Being charged with homicide in New Madrid County, MO is one of the most serious legal battles you could ever face. The penalties can be life-altering, ranging from long-term imprisonment to capital punishment. If you’ve been accused of homicide in New Madrid County, MO or anywhere across Missouri, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced homicide lawyer right away.
Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation where you can discuss the specifics of your case with an expert criminal defense attorney. Our legal team has successfully handled over 10,000 cases just like yours.
Legal Videos
The Different Types of New Madrid County, MO Homicide Charges
Homicide charges vary depending on the circumstances and intent behind the killing. It’s important to understand the different types of homicide charges that could apply:
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 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 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.
-
Protect Your Life
![Image]()
Protect Your Life
A felony can have long-term consequences. Act quickly and carefully to protect your future and your livelihood.
Reach Out Now
-
Know Your Next Steps
![Image]()
Know Your Next Steps
Wondering what happens after your felony arrest? The skilled Combs Waterkotte attorneys have the answers.
Stay Informed
-
Title
![Image]()
Ready to Talk to an Expert?
Contact the experienced Combs Waterkotte felony lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP to get started on your defense.
Get Started
What Steps Should I Take if Accused of Homicide in New Madrid County, MO?
Homicide is a manner of death, when one individual causes the death of another. However, not all instances of homicide quality as murder; some may be classified as manslaughter, while others may be deemed lawful, such as cases involving an affirmative defense like self-defense or insanity.
If you’re accused of homicide in New Madrid County, MO, it is a serious matter. Knowing what to do after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is crucial, and our skilled New Madrid County, MO homicide legal team suggests you take the following steps:
- Hire an Attorney: It’s essential to have a competent Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney in New Madrid County, MO by your side as soon as possible to help ensure a successful outcome. A good lawyer can review police reports, collect evidence, interview witnesses, and build a robust defense strategy. 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 police advise you that “Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law” during the reading of your Miranda rights, take that seriously. Making an ill-timed statement 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 New Madrid County, 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 well-being and make you consider things that you would never do under better circumstances. Fortunately, your Combs Waterkotte New Madrid County, MO homicide lawyer is aware of the challenges you’re facing and can help you find hope amid adversity.
New Madrid County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in New Madrid County and Missouri.
The Significance of Choosing a Combs Waterkotte Homicide Lawyer in New Madrid County, MO
Facing homicide charges in or around New Madrid County, MO is a serious matter with significant consequences. You shouldn’t gamble with your future or choose a lawyer based on an advertisement. Securing a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can be the difference between a reduced sentence or freedom and a life behind bars. Here’s how the New Madrid County, MO Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyers can assist you:
- Case Investigation: Our homicide legal team will conduct an exhaustive investigation into your case, reviewing police documents, forensic evidence, witness testimonies, and any other material. They may also work with private investigators and expert witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Find Gaps in the Prosecution’s Case: Our tenacious homicide lawyers will scrutinize every detail of the case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. This diligent approach may lead to a dismissal of charges, a plea reduction, or an acquittal.
- Verify That Your Rights Were Respected: Under New Madrid County, MO and Missouri law, as well as the U.S. Constitution’s Bill of Rights, you possess specific rights. These rights are essential for ensuring a fair and impartial justice system. Our New Madrid County, MO criminal defense attorneys have unfortunately seen a number of situations where our clients’ rights were violated. We are committed to protecting your rights and securing your future throughout the New Madrid County, MO area. Three of the most violated rights in New Madrid County, MO homicide arrests and interrogations are:
- 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 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 ruled that law enforcement must inform you of your rights before conducting any questioning. This includes your right to remain silent, your right to an attorney, and the warning that anything said can be used in court. Police are only required 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 against unreasonable searches and seizures. Police need reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you and must have probable cause to make an arrest in New Madrid County, MO and beyond. This means they need to provide factual justification for their belief that a crime has occurred or is in progress. If evidence is obtained through an illegal search, it may be excluded from court.
- Provide Expert Witnesses: Combs Waterkotte works with a wide network of experts in the New Madrid County, MO area, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can enlist these specialists to dispute the cause of death or other crucial factors in the case.
- Negotiate Lesser Charges: A talented and proactive New Madrid County, MO homicide lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a guilty plea to a lesser charge, especially if the evidence against you is compelling. 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 are facing homicide charges in or around New Madrid County, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the leading homicide lawyer in New Madrid County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our knowledgeable homicide lawyers, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for New Madrid County, MO residents:
Consult an Experienced Homicide Lawyer in New Madrid County, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
As homicide in New Madrid County, MO is a serious felony offense, anyone facing such charges should connect with a homicide lawyer in New Madrid County, MO immediately. Our experienced legal team has a deep understanding of Missouri laws and is committed to doing everything possible to have your charges reduced or dropped. If you’re dealing with a homicide charge in or around New Madrid County, MO, take action now.
Get in touch with an expert Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in New Madrid County, MO now 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.
