Andrew Russek is an associate attorney at Combs Waterkotte, where he provides aggressive and strategic defense for clients facing felony and misdemeanor charges in both federal and state courts across Missouri. With a reputation as a skilled and tenacious trial lawyer, Andrew has extensive experience in motions to suppress, depositions, jury selection, and the strategic handling of expert and law enforcement witnesses—all critical elements in building a strong defense.
A seasoned trial lawyer, Andrew has tried approximately 30 cases, serving as first chair in 25 of them and, in several instances, acting as the senior attorney responsible for mentoring and guiding less experienced lawyers through trial.
Andrew has also been sought out to assist in the trial preparation and strategy of cases handled by other attorneys, reflecting the confidence other practitioners place in his courtroom experience and litigation approach.
Before joining Combs Waterkotte, Andrew served as a prosecutor with the City of St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office, where he led the Violent Crime Unit. In this role, he successfully tried numerous felony cases, including murder, first-degree assault, robbery, and armed criminal action. His time as a prosecutor provided him with invaluable insight into how cases are built and prosecuted, knowledge that now serves as a powerful advantage in defending his clients.
Prior to his role as a prosecutor, Andrew worked as a public defender, handling a wide range of serious cases in rural Missouri, including murder, assault, drug and firearm offenses, child abuse, and sex crimes. His experience on both sides of the criminal justice system gives him a unique perspective on case strategy, sentencing, and mitigation practices, ensuring his clients receive a comprehensive and well-rounded defense.
Andrew Russek has tried approximately 30 cases, serving as first chair in 25 of them. In several of those trials, he acted as the senior attorney, mentoring and guiding less experienced lawyers through the litigation process. In addition to his own trial work, Andrew has been sought out to assist in the preparation and strategy of cases handled by other attorneys, reflecting the level of trust placed in his courtroom experience and approach.
Andrew has also achieved successful outcomes in high-stakes federal matters, including the dismissal of serious charges in the Eastern District of Missouri. In that case, his client faced multiple counts of wire fraud tied to an alleged international scheme. While a co-defendant moved toward a guilty plea, Andrew prepared the case for trial and challenged the government’s position—ultimately resulting in all charges being dismissed on the eve of trial.
Andrew firmly believes that justice demands every person charged with a crime receives a thorough, multi-faceted defense. His extensive trial experience, prosecutorial background, and meticulous attention to detail make him a fierce advocate for his clients.
In addition to his legal practice, Andrew serves as an Adjunct Professor of Criminal Justice at Maryville University, where he shares his knowledge and practical experience with the next generation of legal professionals.
A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University with a B.S. in Political Science, Andrew went on to earn his law degree from the University of Richmond School of Law. He now lives in Creve Coeur with his wife and their four young children.
