Crime defense lawyers in Putnam County, MO. If you have been charged with, arrested for, or even questioned about a crime anywhere in or around Putnam 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 Putnam County, but throughout Missouri. Our skilled and experienced legal team is completely devoted to providing expert representation and ensuring you receive fair and equitable treatment under the law.
Combs Waterkotte understands all too well that sometimes good people find themselves in bad situations, and we work to minimize the effect criminal charges can have on you, your reputation, and your future. Reach out to our Putnam 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 Putnam County, MO
The skilled legal team at Combs Waterkotte, renowned as acclaimed criminal defense attorneys in Putnam 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
Putnam County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Putnam County and Missouri.
Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Putnam County, MO: What’s the Difference Between State and Federal Crimes?
Understanding the difference between federal and state crimes is important, as they are governed by completely separate jurisdictions and legal frameworks. Our skilled team of crime defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte is well-versed in federal court proceedings, extending our expertise in Putnam County, MO and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of the fundamental differences between federal and state offenses:
- Jurisdictional Scope: Federal crimes within the Putnam County, MO area transgress laws established by the U.S. federal government, which holds authority over matters concerning the entire nation. These offenses encompass activities spanning multiple states, violations occurring on federal premises (e.g., military installations, federal buildings, Native American territories), 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 Putnam County, MO law enforcement agencies.
- Jury Selection: Federal juries are drawn from broader geographical areas, typically spanning entire federal districts, fostering diverse jury compositions. Conversely, state juries are commonly composed of individuals from more localized areas, reflecting the demographic makeup of their respective jurisdictions.
- Investigative Authorities: Federal law enforcement entities such as the FBI, DEA, and ATF are entrusted with investigating and prosecuting federal crimes, maintaining jurisdiction nationwide. Conversely, state and local law enforcement entities like Missouri state police departments, Putnam County, MO municipal police forces, and sheriff departments in Putnam County, MO and surrounding areas investigate and handle state crimes within their respective jurisdictions.
- Legal Frameworks: Federal crimes adhere to regulations delineated in the U.S. Code, a compendium of federal statutes enacted by Congress. These laws are applicable across all states and territories. Conversely, state crimes are governed by distinct criminal codes specific to each state, covering an array of legal matters like criminal offenses, matters of family law, and property law.
- Prosecutorial Process: Federal crimes are commonly litigated in federal courts presided over by federal judges. Conversely, state crimes are prosecuted by district attorneys or state prosecutors representing the state government, adjudicated in state courts under the jurisdiction of state judges.
- Penalties: Federal penalties may encompass probation, fines, incarceration in federal penitentiaries, and parole. Conversely, penalties for state crimes vary extensively, with each jurisdiction having its own sentencing guidelines dictating potential consequences such as fines, probation, imprisonment in state penitentiaries or county jails, and parole.
Give the Putnam County, MO lawyers at Combs Waterkotte a call right away at (314) 900-HELP or connect with us online for assistance with any state or federal matters you may be facing.

Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Putnam County, MO: Key Responsibilities
The Combs Waterkotte lawyers take on a range of vital 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 Putnam County, ]state] to courtroom proceedings, we provide transparent and honest legal counsel, strategizing defense tactics, and vigorously representing your interests.
- Case Evaluation in Putnam County, MO: One of the first steps of a crime defense lawyer is to thoroughly assess the details of your case. Our legal team 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 Putnam County, MO case.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Our Putnam County, MO criminal defense lawyers are skilled litigators who present compelling arguments on your behalf in court. They 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 Putnam County, MO prosecution’s case and secure a verdict of not guilty or minimize imposed penalties.
- Post-Trial Representation: Even after a conviction, .
When you hire Combs Waterkotte, you can rely on the fact that our devoted legal team will provide you with the individualized attention, expertise, and unwavering advocacy you deserve.
What’s the Importance of Crime Defense Lawyers in Putnam County, MO?
Crime defense lawyers in Putnam 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. Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online. Here’s why enlisting the support of the Combs Waterkotte team is essential:
- Balancing the legal system, whether state or federal. In a justice system where state and federal prosecutors hold considerable authority, our Putnam County, MO crime defense lawyers serve as a vital counterbalance. They advocate for the rights of the accused, striving for fairness and equity in every Putnam County, MO case, whether at the state or federal level.
- Preserving your constitutional rights. The Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers ensure that if you’re accused of crimes, you are afforded due process and other constitutional protections guaranteed by the law. They safeguard your rights – including the right to a fair trial, the right to legal counsel, and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
- Preventing 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 assess to justice. The Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers provide essential legal representation to individuals from all walks of life throughout Putnam County and across Missouri, regardless of your financial means. By offering our services, we ensure that everyone has access to the best possible legal defense.
When you hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the best crime defense lawyers in Putnam County, MO – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with crime defense, our legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Putnam County, MO residents:

Reach Out to the Putnam County, MO Leaders in Crime Defense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Right Away
If you are facing charges for a crime in Putnam County or anywhere else in Missouri, remain calm. We are here to help. Our Putnam County, MO crime defense lawyers are steadfast advocates, dedicated to fiercely defending your rights and innocence.
Reach out to Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-obligation consultation with one of our expert attorneys in Putnam County, MO.

