Homicide Lawyer Lebanon, MO

Homicide lawyer in Lebanon, MO. Facing a homicide charge in Lebanon, MO is probably one of the most critical legal challenges anyone can endure. These accusations carry harsh punishments, including extended jail time or even the possibility of the death penalty. If you’ve been charged with homicide in Lebanon, MO or anywhere in Missouri, speaking with an experienced homicide lawyer right away is essential.

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.

Homicide Charges in Lebanon, MO and Across Missouri

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 Lebanon, 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 refers to an intentional killing that lacks premeditation. Also categorized as a class A felony, this crime can lead to prison sentences ranging from 10 to 30 years, or potentially life. Unlike first-degree murder, those convicted may be eligible for parole after serving at least 85 percent of their sentence.

Manslaughter:

Manslaughter refers to the unlawful killing of another individual without the intent to kill. It can be either voluntary – in the heat of passion – or involuntary – due to reckless or negligent behavior. Manslaughter is a class B or class C felony.

Vehicular Manslaughter

This charge involves causing the death of another through reckless or negligent driving. The charges can vary from a misdemeanor to a felony, with penalties depending on whether drugs, alcohol, or extreme recklessness were factors.

What Should I Do If I’m Charged with Homicide in Lebanon, MO?

Homicide refers to the act of one individual causing 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 Lebanon, MO, it’s a grave situation. Understanding the steps to take after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is essential. Our experienced Lebanon, MO homicide legal team recommends the following actions:

• Contact a Lawyer: Having a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Lebanon, MO by your side as soon as possible to help ensure a successful outcome. A good lawyer can analyze police reports, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and develop a solid defense. They can also explore opportunities to reduce or dismiss charges and devise an effective trial plan. Give us a call 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” as they read your Miranda rights, believe them. Making statements during an investigation can significantly impact the outcome of your case and provide prosecutors with evidence to establish your guilt. Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Lebanon, MO is crucial to ensuring you communicate effectively.
• Remember You Are Presumed Innocent: Unfortunately, in today’s society, simply being accused of a crime automatically makes you guilty in the minds of many people. This can deeply alter your mental health and lead to decisions you would not normally make. Fortunately, your Combs Waterkotte Lebanon, MO homicide lawyer understands your situation and is here to help you find clarity and strength during this difficult time.

Why You Should Hire a Combs Waterkotte Homicide Lawyer in Lebanon, MO

Facing homicide charges in or around Lebanon, 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 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 Lebanon, MO:

• Case Investigation: Our homicide legal team will launch a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding your case, examining police reports, forensic evidence, witness statements, and all relevant materials. They may also engage private investigators and expert witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
• Spot Weaknesses in the Prosecution’s Argument: Our tenacious homicide lawyers will examine every detail of the case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. This could result in the dismissal of charges, a reduction in charges, or an acquittal.
• Verify That Your Rights Were Respected: Under Lebanon, 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 Lebanon, MO criminal defense attorneys have witnessed many instances where clients’ rights were compromised. We are committed to protecting your rights and securing your future throughout the Lebanon, MO area. Three of the most violated rights in Lebanon, 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 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, and failing to do so infringes on your due process rights.
  • Failure to Provide the Miranda Warning: According to Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court determined that law enforcement must inform you of your rights prior to any conducting any questioning. This includes your right to remain silent, your right to legal representation, as well as a warning that anything you say can be used against you in court. Police are only required to read your Miranda rights if they are detaining you and intend to use your statements in a court of law. While you can waive these rights, it’s not advisable. Instead, assert your right to remain silent and contact a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer right away at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.
  • Illegal Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. Police must have reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you in Lebanon, MO and elsewhere, and must possess probable cause for an arrest. This means they need to present factual evidence to support their belief that a crime has occurred or is in progress. Evidence gathered through unlawful searches may be deemed inadmissible in court.
• Engage Expert Witnesses: Combs Waterkotte works with a wide network of experts in and around Lebanon, MO, from forensic scientists and ballistics experts to medical examiners and crime scene analysts. Our attorneys can call these specialists to dispute the cause of death or other crucial factors in the case.
• Negotiate for Reduced Charges: A skilled and proactive Lebanon, MO homicide attorney can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a plea to a lesser offense, particularly 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.

When you’re facing homicide charges in or around Lebanon, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the leading homicide lawyer in Lebanon, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our esteemed homicide attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Lebanon and beyond:

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

Contact a Skilled Lebanon, MO Homicide Lawyer Now at Combs Waterkotte

Since homicide is a serious felony crime, it’s essential for anyone facing these charges to speak with a Lebanon, MO homicide attorney right away. Our experienced legal team is well-versed in Missouri laws and is committed to doing everything possible to have your charges reduced or dropped. If you’re confronted with a homicide charge anywhere near Lebanon, MO, take action now.

Get in touch with a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Lebanon, MO today to protect your rights and future while ensuring the best possible defense. Call (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free case assessment.