Violent crime lawyer in Festus, MO. If you’ve been accused of or questioned about a violent crime in Festus, MO, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A conviction can lead to severe penalties, including long-term imprisonment, steep fines, and a criminal record that impacts your entire life. You need a dedicated violent crime lawyer in Festus, MO who knows how to challenge the prosecution and develop a strong defense strategy.
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 Festus, MO area and across Missouri.
Steps to Take If You’ve Been Arrested for a Festus, MO Violent Crime
Being charged with a violent crime in Festus, 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 Festus, MO case is resolved, every action matters. Here’s what you should do:
- Remain Silent: Do not answer any questions from law enforcement without an attorney 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 Festus, MO immediately.
- Hire a Combs Waterkotte Violent Crime Lawyer Right Away: Time is critical. Hiring a skilled Festus, MO violent crime lawyer early can help protect your rights and improve your chances of the best possible outcome.
- Do Not Discuss Your Festus, MO Case: Avoid discussing your charges with anyone—including friends, family, or on social media. Any statements you make could be used against you.
- Gather Any 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 Festus, 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 Festus, 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.
Don’t gamble with your future. A skilled violent crime lawyer in Festus, 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 Festus, MO.
Why You Need a Top Festus, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
Violent crime charges in Festus, MO are aggressively prosecuted, often carrying severe consequences. That’s why having a seasoned criminal defense attorney on your side is essential in Festus, MO. At Combs Waterkotte, we have a history of successfully defending clients against various violent crime charges in and around Festus, MO, including:
- Assault & Battery
From simple assault to aggravated assault, we fight to protect your rights and minimize penalties. - Domestic Violence
False accusations can turn your life upside down. We work to challenge inconsistencies and defend your reputation in Festus, MO. - 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 Festus, 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 Festus, MO. - 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 Festus, MO violent crime lawyer provides throughout the Festus, MO area. - Kidnapping
These cases demand skilled legal defense in Festus, 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 lawyer in the Festus, MO area, you aren’t just selecting a top-rated violent crime lawyer in and around Festus, MO – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with leading defense from our knowledgeable violent crime attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and provides expertise in the following areas for Festus, MO residents:
Defense Strategies for Violent Crime Charges in Festus, MO
The right defense can mean the difference between a conviction and freedom in Festus, MO. Our experienced violent crime legal team evaluates every angle to build a strong case, including:
- Self-Defense — You have the right to protect yourself. This defense justifies the use of reasonable force to protect yourself from imminent harm. We work to prove you acted lawfully.
- 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 — If the case against you is weak or relies on illegally obtained evidence, we push for dismissal or reduced charges.
- Mistaken Identity — Eyewitness misidentification is common. We present alibis, surveillance footage, expert testimony, and more to prove your innocence.
- False Allegations — In some cases, accusations stem from personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings. We stop at nothing in Festus, MO to expose inconsistencies 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 Festus, MO Violent Crime Lawyer?
Our client-focused service, dedication to our clients, and relentless advocacy make us the trusted choice in Festus, MO as your violent crime lawyer. Here’s what separates Combs Waterkotte from other law firms in the Festus, MO area:
- Unwavering Client Support: 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 Festus, MO.
- Experience and Expertise: With over four decades of combined experience, we bring unparalleled expertise to every criminal defense case.
- Elite Defense Resources: Our team includes expert witnesses, private investigators, and forensic specialists to strengthen your case.
- Trial-Tested and Fearless: A lot of criminal defense law firms are quick to plea bargain and avoid going to trial at all costs. Not Combs Waterkotte. We fight relentlessly to protect your rights, no matter the jurisdiction or judge, and achieve the best possible outcome.
Jefferson County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Jefferson County and Missouri.
The Harsh Reality of a Violent Crime Conviction in Festus, MO
A violent crime conviction in Festus, 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 permanent felony record
- 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 Festus, MO Violent Crime Lawyer Today
If you’re facing a violent crime charge in Festus, 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.
Call Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free case review in Festus, MO.