Violent crime lawyer in Howell County, MO. Facing violent crime charges in Howell 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 Howell 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 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 Howell County, MO area and across Missouri.
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What to Do in Howell County, MO If You’ve Been Arrested for a Violent Crime
Facing violent crime charges in Howell County, MO is a serious matter, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Combs Waterkotte, we understand how high the stakes are, and we know how to tirelessly defend your rights. The actions you take after an arrest can make a significant difference in your Howell County, MO case. Follow these steps:
- Remain Silent: Do not answer police questions without a 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 Howell County, MO, and no one else.
- Seek Legal Representation Immediately: Time is critical. Hiring a skilled Howell County, MO violent crime lawyer early can help protect your rights and improve your chances of the best possible outcome.
- Keep Your Howell 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: If you have any proof that supports your case—such as surveillance footage, test messages, or witness information—provide it to your attorney as soon as possible.

Defining Violent Crimes in Howell County, MO
Violent crimes include any criminal act involving force, injury, or threats of harm. These offenses are often classified as felonies, meaning prosecutors in the Howell County, MO area aggressively seek maximum penalties—especially in cases involving serious injury or loss of life. A conviction can derail your future, impacting everything from employment to personal relationships.
With so much at stake, you need a dedicated Howell County, MO violent crime lawyer who will fight for rights and freedom. Call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to start building your defense.
Why Choosing the Right Violent Crime Lawyer in Howell County, MO Matters
Prosecutors take violent crime charges seriously in Howell County, MO, and they don’t hesitate in pursuing the harshest penalties. That’s exactly why hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney is critical. At Combs Waterkotte, we have a proven track record of success defending clients in Howell County, MO against a wide range of violent crime charges, including:
- Assault & Battery
Whether you’re facing charges for simple assault or aggravated assault, we fight to protect your rights and minimize penalties. - 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
When firearms or other weapons are involved, penalties escalate quickly. We fight to defend against charges of unlawful possession, use, and related offenses in Howell County, MO. - Robbery & Armed Robbery
Dangerous felony charges require a strategic defense to challenge evidence and intent—precisely what a Combs Waterkotte Howell County, MO violent crime lawyer provides throughout the Howell County, MO area. - Kidnapping
These cases demand skilled legal defense in Howell County, MO. We dissect the prosecution’s case, exposing weaknesses that could lead to reduced or dismissed charges.

If you hire Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime lawyer in or around Howell County, MO, you aren’t just choosing a leading violent crime lawyer in and around Howell County, MO – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert defense from our esteemed violent crime lawyers, our staff is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Howell County and beyond:
Possible Defenses for Your Violent Crime Lawyer in Howell County, MO
Our experienced Howell County, MO violent crime legal team uses proven legal strategies such as:
- Self-Defense — If you acted to prevent harm to yourself or others, we present evidence that your actions were legally justified.
- Lack of Intent — Without intent, many violent crime charges don’t stand. If your actions were accidental or misinterpreted, we challenge the prosecution’s claims.
- Weak or Unlawful Evidence — If the evidence against you is weak or improperly obtained, we fight to get charges dismissed or reduced.
- Mistaken Identity — Eyewitness misidentification is common. We present alibis, surveillance footage, expert testimony, and more to prove your innocence.
- Unfounded Allegations — If you’ve been accused due to personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings in the Howell County, MO area, we expose contradictions in the prosecution’s case.
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 Howell County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer?
Our client-focused service, dedication to our clients, and relentless advocacy make us the trusted choice in Howell County, MO as your violent crime lawyer. Here’s what separates Combs Waterkotte from other law firms in the Howell County, MO area:
- 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 Howell County, MO.
- Decades of Criminal Defense Experience: With 40+ years of combined legal experience, we know how to build winning defense strategies in Howell County, MO.
- Resources: Our team includes expert witnesses, private investigators, and forensic specialists to strengthen your case.
- Trial-Tested and Fearless: We’re not afraid to take your case to trial and fight for the best possible outcome in Howell County, MO.
Howell County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Howell County and Missouri.
The Harsh Reality of a Violent Crime Conviction in Howell County, MO
Violent crimes carry severe consequences in Howell County, MO, including substantial prison time and hefty fines. Every case is unique. The penalties largely depend on the specific charge, circumstances of the offense, and your prior criminal history. For example, a first-degree murder conviction carries a sentence of life in prison without parole or the death penalty, while a conviction for third-degree assault is up to 4 years in prison and fines up to $10,000, and the unlawful use of a weapon is a class D felony, carrying up to 7 years in prison.
Beyond incarceration and fines, a conviction can have lasting repercussions in Howell County, MO, including:
- A permanent felony record
- To face losing your professional license and your career
- Difficulty securing jobs and housing
- Immigration visa or green card revocation, citizenship application denial, or deportation

Your Future is on the Line — Get Help Today From a Combs Waterkotte Howell County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
If you’re facing a violent crime charge in Howell 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.
Don’t wait—call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a free consultation in Howell County, MO.

