Violent crime lawyer in Manchester, MO. Being accused of a violent crime in or around Manchester, 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 Manchester, 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 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 Manchester, MO and beyond.
Steps to Take If You’ve Been Arrested for a Manchester, MO Violent Crime
When you’re charged with a violent crime in Manchester, MO, it is important to remember you have rights. Also, the Combs Waterkotte violent crime attorneys have extensive experience in defending these charges. Don’t add to the already daunting charges by doing something to harm your case. After all, the problems created by your Manchester, MO arrest won’t be resolved until a successful outcome is reached. Here’s what to do:
- Invoke Your Right to Silence: Do not answer police questions 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 Manchester, MO immediately.
- Contact a Combs Waterkotte Lawyer Immediately: Time is critical. Hiring a skilled Manchester, MO violent crime lawyer early can help protect your rights and improve your chances of the best possible outcome.
- Avoid Talking to Anyone: What you say can be used against you. Refrain from talking about your charges with anyone other than lawyer—especially on social media.
- Gather Any 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 Manchester, 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 Manchester, 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 Manchester, 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 Manchester, MO.
Why Choosing the Right Violent Crime Lawyer in Manchester, MO Matters
Prosecutors take violent crime charges seriously in Manchester, 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 Manchester, 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
False accusations can turn your life upside down. We work to challenge inconsistencies and defend your reputation in Manchester, MO. - 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
If a firearm or other weapon is involved, penalties can be even more severe. We help fight unlawful possession and usage charges in the Manchester, MO area. - 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 serious charges require a tough defense. We analyze every aspect of the Manchester, MO case to challenge weak evidence and unfair allegations.
When you hire Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime lawyer in Manchester, MO, you’re not just selecting a leading violent crime lawyer in Manchester, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with top defense from our knowledgeable violent crime attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Manchester and beyond:
Defense Strategies for Violent Crime Charges in Manchester, MO
Our experienced Manchester, 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 you didn’t intend harm, the charges might not hold up in court. This defense highlights the absence of the necessary mental state to commit the crime, like accident actions.
- Insufficient Evidence — If the case against you is weak or relies on illegally obtained evidence, we push for dismissal or reduced charges.
- 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 — In some cases, accusations stem from personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings. We stop at nothing in Manchester, MO to expose inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case.

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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 Manchester, MO Violent Crime Lawyer?
Not all law firms near Manchester, MO are the same. At Combs Waterkotte, we take a strategic and aggressive approach to defending violent crime charges in Manchester, MO, offering:
- Client-Centered Approach: 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 Manchester, MO.
- Decades of Criminal Defense Experience: With 40+ years of combined legal experience, we know how to build winning defense strategies in Manchester, MO.
- Resources: We work with private investigators, forensic experts, and top legal professionals to strengthen your defense in Manchester, MO.
- 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.
St. Louis County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in St. Louis County and Missouri.
Consequences of a Violent Crime Conviction in Manchester, MO
A violent crime conviction in Manchester, 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 Manchester, MO, including:
- A permanent felony record
- To face losing your professional license and your career
- Difficulty gaining employment or finding a place to live
- Risk of deportation, visa denial, or citizenship revocation
Your Future is on the Line — Get Help Today From a Combs Waterkotte Manchester, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
A violent crime charge in Manchester, 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 Manchester, MO.