Crime defense lawyers in Laclede County, MO. If you’ve been charged with, arrested for, or even questioned about a crime in Laclede County, MO, you need the best possible legal representation fighting for you. No matter the severity of the crime – from minor infractions to more serious felonies – the crime defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte are here to help.
Our team of crime defense lawyers serves a vital function in safeguarding the rights and liberties of individuals accused of criminal wrongdoing, not only in Laclede County, but throughout Missouri. Our skilled and experienced legal team is completely dedicated to providing expert representation and making sure you receive fair and equitable treatment under the law.
Combs Waterkotte recognizes that even the most upstanding individuals can find themselves in challenging circumstances. Our mission is to minimize the impact of criminal charges on your life, reputation, and future prospects. Reach out to our Laclede County, MO crime defense lawyers as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or conveniently contact us online for a free, confidential case evaluation. Our attorneys have over 60 years of combined experience, and our record of success speaks for itself.
Legal Videos

Are Private Attorneys Better Than Public Defenders?
Are Private Attorneys Better Than Public Defenders? Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs talks about the differences in a defendant's experience when working with a public defender vs. a …

What Is the Process For Getting Bail in Missouri?
What Is the Process For Getting Bail in Missouri? If you've been arrested, the first thing you want to do is get out of jail and get back home. Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs …

Everything You Need to Know About Juvenile Criminal Defense Cases in Missouri
Everything You Need to Know About Juvenile Criminal Defense Cases in Missouri. Attorneys Christopher Combs and Matthew Brown from Combs Waterkotte answer the most commonly asked questions about …

How Does Plea Bargaining Work?
Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs discusses how he negotiates the most favorable plea bargaining deals for his clients. You can read a transcript of the interview below.

Can Criminal Charges Be Dropped?
Can your criminal case get dismissed? How can your defense attorney get your case dismissed? Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs discusses what needs to happen to have your charges …

Public Defender Caseloads Are High. Can I Trust One With My Case?
St. Louis defense attorney Chris Combs explains how a private defense lawyer can offer the resources and attention to detail that many public defenders don't have time for. You can read a …
Understanding the Role of Crime Defense Lawyers in Laclede County, MO
The skilled legal team at Combs Waterkotte, renowned as acclaimed criminal defense attorneys in Laclede County, MO, have a commitment to providing exceptional representation to clients confronting criminal allegations. With expertise spanning both state and federal jurisdictions, our attorneys specialize in navigating a wide array of cases and criminal charges, including:
- DUIs and DWIs
- Motor Vehicle Tampering
- Assault and Battery
- Domestic Violence
- Theft/Larceny
- Probation Violations
- Drug Charges and Possession
- Drug Trafficking
- Gun Charges
- Sex Crimes
- Credit Card Fraud
- Murder
- View all criminal defense cases we take
Laclede County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Laclede County and Missouri.
Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Laclede County, MO: Exploring the Differences Between State and Federal Crimes
Understanding the difference between federal and state crimes is important, as they are governed by separate jurisdictions and legal frameworks. Our esteemed team of crime defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte is well-versed in federal court proceedings, extending our expertise in Laclede County, MO and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of the fundamental differences between federal and state offenses:
- Jurisdictional Scope: Federal crimes in the Laclede County, MO area transgress laws established by the U.S. federal government, which possess authority over nationwide matters. These offenses include activities spanning multiple states, violations occurring on federal premises such as military installations, federal buildings, and Native American territories, as well as crimes against governmental entities and acts of terrorism. Conversely, state crimes contravene statutes enacted by the Missouri state government, falling within the purview of state and local Laclede County, MO law enforcement agencies.
- Jury Selection: In the realm of federal law, juries are assembled from broader geographical regions, commonly including entire federal districts. This fosters a wide array of prospective jurors. Conversely, state juries often consist of individuals from more localized regions, reflecting the demographic makeup of their respective jurisdictions.
- Investigative Authorities: Federal law enforcement bodies like the FBI, DEA, and ATF are entrusted with investigating and prosecuting federal offenses, maintaining jurisdiction nationwide. On the other hand, state and local law enforcement agencies, such as Missouri state police departments, Laclede County, MO municipal police forces, and Laclede County, MO and surrounding counties’ sheriff departments .
- Legal Frameworks: Federal crimes adhere to regulations outlined in the U.S. Code, a compendium of federal statutes enacted by Congress. These laws are uniformly applicable across all states and territories. Conversely, state crimes are governed by specific criminal codes unique to each state, covering various legal domains such as criminal offenses, matters of family law, and property law.
- Prosecutorial Process: Federal crimes are commonly prosecuted in federal courts under the jurisdiction of federal judges. In contrast, state crimes are prosecuted by district attorneys or state prosecutors representing the state government, with cases adjudicated in state courts overseen by state judges.
- Penalties: Federal penalties include probation, fines, imprisonment in federal corrections facilities, and parole. Conversely, penalties for state crimes exhibit significant variability, with each jurisdiction having its own sentencing guidelines dictating potential consequences like fines, probation, imprisonment in state prisons or county jails, and parole.
Feel free to call the Laclede County, MO crime defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or connect with us online for help with any state or federal charges you may be facing.

The Key Responsibilities of the Laclede County, MO Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers
The Combs Waterkotte lawyers take on a range of crucial responsibilities to ensure the best possible outcome. Here’s what you expect when you hire our lawyers:
- Legal Representation: Our crime defense lawyers act as staunch advocates for our clients throughout every stage of the criminal justice process. From initial investigations in Laclede County, ]state] to courtroom proceedings, we provide transparent and honest legal counsel, strategizing defense tactics, and vigorously representing your interests.
- Case Evaluation in Laclede County, MO: One of our first steps is to conduct a thorough evaluation of your case. Our legal team meticulously reviews evidence, interviews witnesses, and identifies potential legal issues that could impact our defense. This comprehensive analysis allows us to develop an effective defense strategy tailored specifically to the circumstances of your Laclede County, MO case.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Our Laclede County, MO criminal defense lawyers are skilled litigators who present compelling arguments on your behalf in court. We adeptly cross-examine witnesses, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and present evidence and testimony in support of the defense. Our goal is to cast reasonable doubt on the Laclede County, MO prosecution’s case and secure a verdict of not guilty or minimize the penalties imposed.
- Post-Trial Representation: Even after a conviction, .
When you choose Combs Waterkotte, you can trust that our devoted team of crime defense lawyers will provide you with the individualized attention, expertise, and unwavering advocacy you deserve.
What’s the Importance of Crime Defense Lawyers in Laclede County, MO?
Crime defense lawyers in Laclede County, MO play a crucial role in upholding the principles of justice and protecting your individual liberties. You need the Combs Waterkotte team on your side. Give us a call right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online. The following are reasons why our services are indispensable:
- Balancing the legal system in Laclede County, MO. In a criminal justice system where a state or federal prosecutor wields significant power, our crime defense lawyers serve as a counterbalance, advocating for the rights of the accused and promoting fairness and equity.
- Preserving your constitutional rights. Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers ensure that individuals accused of crimes in or around Laclede County, MO receive due process and other constitutional protections guaranteed by law. They safeguard rights such as right to a fair trial, the right to legal counsel, and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
- Protecting against miscarriages of justice. Our criminal defense attorneys play an important role in preventing miscarriages of justice. Their thorough investigation, diligent advocacy, and commitment to zealous representation help uncover the truth and make sure that justice is served.
- Ensuring your access to justice. The Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers provide essential legal representation to individuals from all walks of life throughout the Laclede County, MO area. Regardless of financial means, our team ensures that everyone has access to top-tier legal defense when facing criminal charges.
When you choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the best crime defense lawyers in Laclede County, MO – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to crime defense, our legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Laclede County and beyond:

Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing charges for a crime in Laclede County or anywhere else in Missouri, remain calm. We are here to help. Our Laclede County, MO crime defense lawyers are indispensable advocates, dedicated to fiercely defending your rights and innocence.
Call Combs Waterkotte right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a no-obligation case review with one of our expert Laclede County, MO attorneys.

