Violent crime lawyer in Smithville, MO. Being accused of a violent crime in or around Smithville, 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 Smithville, MO who knows how to fight aggressively for your rights and build a strategic defense.
Don’t face these charges alone in Smithville, MO—call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation. With over 40 years of experience and more than 10,000 cases successfully handled in Smithville, MO and across Missouri, we have the expertise to help you fight for your future.
What to Do If You’ve Been Arrested for a Violent Crime in Smithville, MO
Facing violent crime charges in Smithville, 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 Smithville, MO case. Follow these steps:
- Stay Silent: Do not answer any questions from law enforcement without a lawyer present. You can’t face anything harsher for exercising your right to remain silent. But you can definitely damage your case by speaking to someone else. Talk to your violent crime lawyer in Smithville, MO, and no one else.
- Hire a Combs Waterkotte Violent Crime Lawyer Right Away: The sooner you hire an experienced Smithville, MO violent crime attorney, the better your chances of building a strong defense and getting the best possible outcome.
- Avoid Talking to Anyone: Avoid discussing your charges with anyone—including friends, family, or on social media. Any statements you make could be used against you.
- Collect and Share Evidence: If you have evidence supporting your innocence, such as videos, messages, or witness contacts, share them with your attorney immediately.
Defining Violent Crimes in Smithville, 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 Smithville, 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 these stakes, you can’t afford to roll the dice with your future and freedom. You need a Combs Waterkotte Smithville, MO violent crime lawyer protecting your rights, proving your innocence, and fighting for your freedom in Smithville, 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 Choosing the Right Violent Crime Lawyer in Smithville, MO Matters
Facing violent crime charges in Smithville, 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 Smithville, MO clients against violent crime allegations, such as:
- 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
We build strong defenses against first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and manslaughter charges. Experience matters; you should not go at it alone when faced with types of charges. - 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 Smithville, 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
Complex cases need skilled criminal defense attorneys who understand how to challenge the prosecution’s case at every level.
When you hire Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime attorney in or around Smithville, MO, you aren’t just choosing the ideal violent crime lawyer in and around Smithville, MO – you are safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to leading defense from our experienced violent crime attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and provides expertise in the following areas for Smithville, MO residents:
- Sex Crimes Lawyer
- Drivers License Reinstatement Attorney
- Careless Imprudent Driving Attorneys
- Violent Crimes Lawyer
- Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer
- Weapons Crime Attorney
Possible Defenses for Your Violent Crime Lawyer in Smithville, MO
Our experienced Smithville, 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 — Many violent crime charges require intent. We work to show your actions were accidental or misinterpreted.
- Insufficient Evidence — We scrutinize the prosecution’s case for flaws, seeking to suppress unreliable or improperly obtained evidence.
- Mistaken Identity — 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 Smithville, 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.
Why Choose a Combs Waterkotte Smithville, MO Violent Crime Lawyer?
Not all law firms near Smithville, MO are the same. At Combs Waterkotte, we take a strategic and aggressive approach to defending violent crime charges in Smithville, MO, offering:
- Client-Centered Approach: We prioritize your needs, offering 24/7 availability, clear communication, and a strategy tailored to your case in Smithville, MO.
- Experience and Expertise: With over four decades of combined experience, we bring unparalleled expertise to every criminal defense case.
- Access to Top Resources: We have a skilled support team, private investigators, and a network of forensic experts, ready to help defend you in Smithville, MO.
- Trial-Tested and Fearless: We’re not afraid to take your case to trial and fight for the best possible outcome in Smithville, MO.
Platte County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Platte County and Missouri.
What Are the Penalties for a Violent Crime Conviction in Smithville, MO?
Violent crimes carry severe consequences in Smithville, 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.
A conviction can also lead to significant long-term consequences in Smithville, MO, including:
- A permanent felony record
- To face losing your career and any professional license(s)
- Difficulty gaining employment or finding a place to live
- Immigration visa or green card revocation, citizenship application denial, or deportation
Your Future is on the Line — Get Help Today From a Combs Waterkotte Smithville, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
If you’re facing a violent crime charge in Smithville, 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 Smithville, MO.