Violent crime lawyer in Maries County, MO. Facing violent crime charges in Maries County, MO is a serious, life-changing event. A conviction can result in years behind bars, huge fines, and a criminal record that follows you forever. You need an experienced violent crime lawyer in Maries County, MO who will fight tirelessly to defend your rights and build a powerful legal defense.
Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation. We have over 40 years of experience and a track record of successfully handling more than 10,000 cases just like yours in Maries County, MO and beyond.
Steps to Take If You’ve Been Arrested for a Maries County, MO Violent Crime
Being charged with a violent crime in Maries County, MO can be overwhelming, but remember—you have rights. The experienced violent crime legal team at Combs Waterkotte has extensive experience in defending these charges, and we’re here to help. Avoid making mistakes that could impact your case or harm your defense. Until your Maries County, MO case is resolved, every action matters. Here’s what you should do:
- Invoke Your Right to Silence: Do not answer any questions from law enforcement without a violent crime lawyer present. You have the right to remain silent, and exercising it won’t make things worse—but saying the wrong thing could. Speak only to your violent crime lawyer in Maries County, MO, and no one else.
- Seek Legal Representation Immediately: Time is critical. Hiring a skilled Maries County, MO violent crime lawyer early can help protect your rights and improve your chances of the best possible outcome.
- Do Not Discuss Your Maries County, MO Case: Discussing your case with family, friends, or on social media can hurt your defense.
- Collect and Share Evidence: Any evidence that supports your innocence, such as messages, videos, or potential witnesses, should be handed over to your legal team immediately.
Understanding Violent Crimes in Maries County, MO
A violent crime is any offense involving physical harm or the threat of harm against another person. Most violent crimes are classified as felonies, meaning prosecutors in the Maries County, MO area often push for the harshest penalties—especially if someone was injured or killed. A conviction can affect every part of your life, from your career and reputation to your personal relationships.
Don’t gamble with your future. A skilled violent crime lawyer in Maries County, MO can help protect your rights and build a strong defense. Call Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the legal support you need in Maries County, MO.
The Importance of Hiring a Leading Maries County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
Violent crime charges in Maries County, MO are aggressively prosecuted, often carrying severe consequences. That’s why having a seasoned criminal defense attorney on your side is essential in Maries County, MO. At Combs Waterkotte, we have a history of successfully defending clients against various violent crime charges in and around Maries County, MO, including:
- Assault & Battery
We challenge the prosecution’s case to reduce charges and protect your future. - Domestic Violence
Misunderstandings and false claims can destroy lives. We uncover the truth and fight for your innocence. - Homicide / Murder Charges
Murder and manslaughter charges carry the harshest penalties. We bring the experience and resources needed to fight for the best possible outcome in Maries County, MO. - Weapons Charges
When firearms or other weapons are involved, penalties escalate quickly. We fight to defend against charges of unlawful possession, use, and related offenses in Maries County, MO. - Robbery & Armed Robbery
Dangerous felony charges can mean years or even decades in prison. We work aggressively to dispute evidence, intent, and any violations of your rights. - Kidnapping
These cases demand skilled legal defense in Maries County, MO. We dissect the prosecution’s case, exposing weaknesses that could lead to reduced or dismissed charges.
If you partner with Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime attorney in Maries County, MO, you aren’t just hiring the ideal violent crime lawyer in and around Maries County, MO – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert defense from our experienced violent crime attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Maries County and beyond:
Possible Defenses for Your Violent Crime Lawyer in Maries County, MO
Our experienced Maries County, MO violent crime legal team uses proven legal strategies such as:
- Self-Defense — If you acted to protect yourself or others from imminent harm, we work to prove your actions were justified.
- No Intent to Harm — Without intent, many violent crime charges don’t stand. If your actions were accidental or misinterpreted, we challenge the prosecution’s claims.
- Lack of Evidence — We scrutinize the prosecution’s case for flaws, seeking to suppress unreliable or improperly obtained evidence.
- Mistaken Identity — Eyewitness misidentification is common. We present alibis, surveillance footage, expert testimony, and more to prove your innocence.
- Unfounded Allegations — Some charges in Maries County, MO arise from false claims, personal grudges, or exaggerations. We challenge inconsistencies to protect your reputation and future.

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How to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Charged with a crime? The lawyer you hire matters. Combs Waterkotte, recognized for top-tier criminal defense in Missouri and Southern Illinois, created this guide to help you find the right attorney. Learn what to look for, key questions to ask, and red flags to avoid.
What Makes Combs Waterkotte the Best Choice for Your Violent Crime Lawyer in Maries County, MO?
When facing serious charges, choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference. Combs Waterkotte stands out as the go-to violent crime lawyer in Maries County, MO because:
- Unwavering Client Support: We keep you informed, provide 24/7 access, and ensure you’re never left in the dark about your Maries County, MO case.
- Decades of Criminal Defense Experience: With 40+ years of combined legal experience, we know how to build winning defense strategies in Maries County, MO.
- Elite Defense Resources: We have a skilled support team, private investigators, and a network of forensic experts, ready to help defend you in Maries County, MO.
- Trial Ready: Many firms avoid trial, but we are prepared to aggressively fight for you in court whenever necessary in Maries County, MO.
Maries County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Maries County and Missouri.
What Are the Penalties for a Violent Crime Conviction in Maries County, MO?
A violent crime conviction in Maries County, MO can change your life forever. Penalties vary based on the severity of the charge, the details of the offense, and your criminal history. For instance, a first-degree murder conviction results in life without parole of the death penalty, while third-degree assault could lead up to 4 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. Even an unlawful weapons charge as a class D felony carries a sentence of up to 7 years in prison.
In addition to your prison sentence and fines, you’ll have:
- A felony record that follows you for life
- To face losing your professional license and your career
- Difficulty securing jobs and housing
- Risk of deportation, visa denial, or citizenship revocation
Protect Your Future By Contacting a Maries County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer Today
A violent crime charge in Maries County, MO can put your future at risk. You need a skilled and determined violent crime lawyer who will access your case, build a strategic defense, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Call Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free case review in Maries County, MO.