Violent crime lawyer in Pettis County, MO. Being accused of a violent crime in or around Pettis County, MO is life-altering, to say the least. A conviction can mean lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you’re facing charges, you need a skilled violent crime lawyer in Pettis County, MO who knows how to fight aggressively for your rights and build a strategic defense.
Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a free, confidential consultation with an expert criminal defense attorney. Our violent crime legal team has over 40 years of experience and has successfully handled more than 10,000 cases just like yours in the Pettis County, MO area and across Missouri.
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Steps to Take If You’ve Been Arrested for a Pettis County, MO Violent Crime
Being charged with a violent crime in Pettis 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 Pettis County, MO case is resolved, every action matters. Here’s what you should do:
- Stay Silent: Do not answer police questions without a violent crime lawyer present. You are protected by the right to remain silent. Speaking without legal guidance can seriously damage your case. Instead, consult with a trusted violent crime lawyer in Pettis County, MO immediately.
- Hire a Combs Waterkotte Violent Crime Lawyer Right Away: The faster you hire an experienced violent crime lawyer in Pettis County, MO, the stronger your defense will be. Early legal intervention can make a significant difference in your case.
- Keep Your Pettis County, MO Case Private: What you say can be used against you. Refrain from talking about your charges with anyone other than lawyer—especially on social media.
- Preserve Crucial Evidence: Any evidence that supports your innocence, such as messages, videos, or potential witnesses, should be handed over to your legal team immediately.

Defining Violent Crimes in Pettis County, MO
A violent crime is any crime that involves violence or the threat of violence. Many violent crimes are felony offenses, for which prosecutors will seek the maximum sentence, particularly if the alleged victim was injured or killed. If convicted, you’ll face lifelong consequences—including your career, standing in the Pettis County, MO community, relationships, and more.
With these stakes, you can’t afford to roll the dice with your future and freedom. You need a Combs Waterkotte Pettis County, MO violent crime lawyer protecting your rights, proving your innocence, and fighting for your freedom in Pettis County, MO. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to discuss the specifics of your case and get expert legal advice and guidance on next steps.
Why You Need a Top Pettis County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
Facing violent crime charges in Pettis County, MO means prosecutors will push for the harshest penalties possible. That’s why you need a skilled criminal defense attorney who knows how to fight back. At Combs Waterkotte, we bring decades of experience defending Pettis County, MO clients against violent crime allegations, such as:
- 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
Facing charges for first-degree murder, second-degree murder, or manslaughter? These cases require a meticulous defense strategy. Our experienced attorneys know how to challenge the prosecution’s case and protect your rights. - Weapons Charges
Whether you’re facing unlawful possession or use of a firearm in Pettis County, MO, we challenge the charges to protect your freedom. - Robbery & Armed Robbery
Dangerous felony charges like robbery or armed robbery, require a strategic defense to challenge evidence and intent—precisely what a Combs Waterkotte Pettis County, MO violent crime lawyer provides throughout the Pettis County, MO area. - Kidnapping
These cases demand skilled legal defense in Pettis County, MO. We dissect the prosecution’s case, exposing weaknesses that could lead to reduced or dismissed charges.

When you hire Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime legal team in the Pettis County, MO area, you aren’t just hiring a leading violent crime lawyer in Pettis County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert defense from our knowledgeable violent crime lawyers, our staff is available 24/7 and provides expertise in the following areas for Pettis County, MO residents:
Possible Defenses for Your Violent Crime Lawyer in Pettis County, MO
Our experienced Pettis 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 Criminal Intent — 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.
- Misidentification — Mistaken identity is a leading cause of wrongful convictions. We gather alibi evidence and expert analysis to prove you were not involved.
- Unfounded Allegations — Some charges in Pettis County, MO arise from false claims, personal grudges, or exaggerations. We challenge inconsistencies to protect your reputation and future.
Free book
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.
Why Choose a Combs Waterkotte Pettis County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer?
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 Pettis County, MO because:
- Client-First Mentality: Our clients are our priority. We keep you involved in each step of your case, providing 24/7 support, clear communication, and personalized service in Pettis County, MO.
- Decades of Criminal Defense Experience: With 40+ years of combined legal experience, we know how to build winning defense strategies in Pettis County, MO.
- Resources: We work with private investigators, forensic experts, and top legal professionals to strengthen your defense in Pettis County, MO.
- Fierce Courtroom Advocacy: We’re not afraid to take your case to trial and fight for the best possible outcome in Pettis County, MO.
Pettis County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Pettis County and Missouri.
Consequences of a Violent Crime Conviction in Pettis County, MO
A violent crime conviction in Pettis 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.
A conviction can also lead to significant long-term consequences in Pettis County, MO, including:
- A permanent felony record
- To face losing your career and any professional license(s)
- Difficulty securing jobs and housing
- Immigration visa or green card revocation, citizenship application denial, or deportation

Protect Your Future By Contacting a Pettis County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer Today
If you’re facing a violent crime charge in Pettis County, MO, don’t leave your future to chance. An experienced and aggressive violent crime lawyer can evaluate your case, develop a strong defense, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Take the first step toward your defense—call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free consultation in Pettis County, MO.

