Weapons crime attorney in West Plains, MO. Facing charges of a weapons crime in West Plains, MO? Don’t gamble with your future. A weapons crime conviction can impact your freedom, your career, and your reputation. You need a skilled and aggressive weapons crime attorney in West Plains, MO who knows the system and how to protect your rights.
At Combs Waterkotte, we bring over 60 years of experience to every case we take on. Our criminal defense strategies have helped clients in West Plains, MO and across Missouri achieve reduced charges, dismissals, and not-guilty verdicts in even the toughest gun and weapons cases.
Call our trusted West Plains, MO weapons crime attorney as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We’ve successfully handled over 10,000 cases in West Plains, MO and beyond—and we’re ready to fight for you.
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Article Summary
Weapons charges in West Plains, MO can carry life-changing consequences, but Combs Waterkotte is here to help. Our aggressive, results-driven weapons crime attorneys serve clients throughout the West Plains, MO area facing accusations involving guns, illegal possession, armed criminal action, or trafficking. We know how to push back against the prosecution and protect your rights. Read on to learn that when you work with us, we’ll help you:
- Take immediate steps in West Plains, MO to protect your rights and future.
- Move quickly to avoid costly mistakes after an arrest.
- Know your rights, no matter the charge.
- Navigate the complexities of West Plains, MO weapons laws.
- Recognize the severity of penalties tied to weapons crimes.
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Protect Your Life
A felony can have long-term consequences. Act quickly and carefully to protect your future and your livelihood.
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Wondering what happens after your felony arrest? The skilled Combs Waterkotte attorneys have the answers.
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Contact the experienced Combs Waterkotte felony lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP to get started on your defense.
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Weapons Crime Attorney in West Plains, MO: What is a Weapons Crime in Missouri?
Our experienced West Plains, MO weapons crime attorneys have seen it all—from minor infractions to serious felony gun cases. We have handled the following types of cases and more:
Unlawful Firearm Possession in West Plains, MO
According to Missouri Revised Statute § 571.070, firearm possession becomes unlawful under specific circumstances, including:
- Being a convicted felon
- Being underage
- Belonging to a category of individuals prohibited from owning firearms
- Violating federal firearm possession restrictions
If this is your first offense, it may be charged as a Class C felony—but with prior offenses, it can rise to a Class B felony, carrying much harsher penalties. Don’t risk your future. A skilled West Plains, MO criminal defense attorney can evaluate your case and build a strong defense from day one.
Unlawful Use of a Weapon in West Plains, MO
This is one of the most frequently charged weapons crimes in the West Plains, MO area and can arise in a variety of situations, including:
- Firing a gun in restricted areas, especially while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Flashing or brandishing a gun in a way that alarms or threatens others
- Carrying a concealed weapon without legal authorization
- Possession of firearms in prohibited places, as outlined in Missouri law
- Committing other crimes like burglary, assault, or drug distribution while armed
- Possessing illegal weapon modifications or accessories
The consequences in West Plains, MO can be life-altering. Charges can range from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class A felony with decades—or a lifetime—behind bars.
If you’re facing these serious charges in West Plains, MO, your future is at stake. A Combs Waterkotte skilled West Plains, MO weapons crime attorney can help you build a strong defense and get the best possible outcome. Call (314) 900-HELP or contact us online today.
West Plains, MO Armed Criminal Action
This charge refers to using or displaying a weapon during the commission of a felony offense in West Plains, MO. This is not a standalone crime but an enhancement that adds serious time to underlying charges like:
- Drug Trafficking
- Assault
- Robbery
- Burglary
Missouri law imposes strict mandatory minimum prison sentences for armed criminal action:
- 3 years for a first-time conviction
- 5 years for a second conviction
- 10 years or more for a third offense
Possession of a Defaced Firearm in or Around West Plains, MO
If you’re caught with a firearm that has an altered or missing serial number, you may be charged with possessing a defaced firearm—a Class B misdemeanor in West Plains, MO. Law enforcement treats these cases harshly due to associations with criminal trafficking and stolen guns.
Unlawful Sale, Transfer, or Trafficking of Weapons in West Plains, MO
It’s unlawful to sell, loan, or transfer a weapon to someone who is prohibited from possessing one in West Plains, MO. These violations often involve:
- Giving a firearm to a minor
- Transferring a weapon to a felon
- Failing to confirm eligibility before a sale
Depending on the facts of your case, you can face a Class A misdemeanor or a Class E felony. Don’t face these charges alone—a Combs Waterkotte West Plains, MO weapons crime attorney can step in and fight for you.
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Arrested for a Weapons Crime in West Plains, MO? Here’s What to Do
No matter the circumstances or severity of your charges in West Plains, MO, here’s what you should do:
- Do not speak to the police without an attorney present.
- Get in touch with our team immediately for a risk-free case assessment.
- Let us review your case in West Plains, MO, protect your rights, and start building your defense.
In weapons cases, every second counts. The earlier you contact an experienced West Plains, MO weapons crime attorney, the better your chances of protecting your future.
Weapons Crime Attorney in West Plains, MO: Here’s Why You Need a Skilled Lawyer Immediately
Being charged with a weapons offense in West Plains, MO can jeopardize your freedom, finances, and future. But with the help of an experienced defense attorney, you may be able to avoid the worst-case scenario.
An experienced West Plains, MO weapons crime attorney from Combs Waterkotte can help you by:
- Protecting your rights from the moment of your arrest
- Investigating the prosecution’s claims and gathering critical evidence
- Push back against unconstitutional searches or arrests
- Working to get charged reduced—or dropped altogether
- Taking Your Case to Trial if Needed
At Combs Waterkotte, we don’t back down. We question every detail, build aggressive defense strategies, and fight relentlessly for the best outcome in West Plains, MO.
Howell County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Howell County and Missouri.
Weapons Crime Attorney in West Plains, MO: Possible Legal Defenses
At Combs Waterkotte, no two cases are alike—but our West Plains, MO weapons crime defense team has successfully used a wide range of defenses to protect clients’ rights and freedom:
- Self-Defense or Defense of Others — Missouri has “Stand Your Ground” and “Castle Doctrine” laws, allowing you to use force—including deadly force—to protect yourself and others. Our weapons crime attorney in West Plains, MO can work to prove your use of force was necessary given your reasonable fear of imminent threat.
- Illegal Search or Seizure — We can utilize this defense if the weapon was found during a search that violated your Fourth Amendment rights in West Plains, MO, such as:
- No warrant
- No probable cause
- An unlawful traffic stop
- Lack of Knowledge or Intent — This defense is useful in proving that you were unaware you were in possession of a weapon, like if it was planted in your possession or if someone else left it in your vehicle or home. You had no intent to use the weapon unlawfully.
- Other Defenses — You may also have a solid defense based on alibi, entrapment, mistaken identity, or insufficient evidence. Every detail matters in West Plains, MO.
If you choose a Combs Waterkotte weapons crime attorney in or around West Plains, MO, you’re not just selecting the top-rated weapons crime defense team in West Plains, MO and throughout Missouri – you are safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with esteemed weapons crime attorneys, our staff is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for residents in West Plains and beyond:
Charged With a Weapons Crime in West Plains, MO?—Let Combs Waterkotte Fight for You
Weapons charges can turn your life upside down—but you don’t have to face them alone. Our experienced West Plains, MO weapons crime attorneys are ready to take action on your behalf. Whether it’s negotiating the best possible resolution or defending you in court, we’ll stand by your side every step of the way.
Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a case review where you can get answers from a West Plains, MO weapons crime attorney who cares.
