Crime defense lawyers in Barry County, MO. If you find yourself facing charges, an arrest, or even questioning regarding a crime, whether within Barry County, MO, or anywhere nearby, securing top-notch legal representation is crucial. No matter the gravity of the offense – whether it’s a minor infraction or a more severe felony – the crime defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte are here to provide steadfast support.
These crime defense lawyers play a pivotal role in protecting the rights and freedoms of clients accused of criminal offenses throughout the Barry County, MO area. Our talented and knowledgeable legal team is fully dedicated to providing expert representation and making sure you receive fair treatment within the legal system.
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. Call our Barry County, MO crime defense lawyers immediately at (314) 900-HELP or conveniently contact us online for a free, confidential case evaluation. With more than 60 years of combined legal experience, our attorneys boast an impressive track record of successful outcomes.
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 Barry County, MO
The skilled legal team at Combs Waterkotte, renowned as acclaimed criminal defense attorneys in Barry 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
Barry County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Barry County and Missouri.
Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Barry County, MO: What’s the Difference Between State and Federal Crimes?
It’s important to recognize that federal and state crimes have distinct characteristics, primarily shaped by the jurisdiction overseeing their prosecution and the legal frameworks governing them. The Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers are proficient in federal court proceedings in Barry County, MO and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of the key disparities between federal and state offenses:
- Jurisdictional Scope: Federal crimes in the Barry 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 Barry 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 often consist 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 agencies, such as Missouri state police departments, Barry County, MO municipal police forces, and Barry County, MO and surrounding counties’ sheriff departments 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 passed by Congress. These laws are uniformly applicable across all states and territories. In contrast, state crimes abide 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 normally litigated in federal courts under the jurisdiction of federal judges. In contrast, state crimes are prosecuted by district attorneys or state prosecutors representing state governments, with cases adjudicated in state courts overseen by state judges.
- Penalties: Federal penalties include probation, fines, incarceration in federal penitentiaries, and parole. Conversely, penalties for state crimes exhibit significant variability, with each jurisdiction having its own sentencing guidelines dictating potential consequences such as fines, probation, imprisonment in state penitentiaries or county jails, and parole.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to the Barry County, MO attorneys at Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for help with any state or federal crime you may be facing.

The Key Responsibilities of the Barry County, MO Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers
When you hire a Combs Waterkotte lawyer, you will always get individual attention to detail and care. The following are some of the key responsibilities of our defense attorneys:
- Legal Representation: Crime defense lawyers serve as advocates for their clients throughout the stages of the criminal justice programs, from pretrial investigations in Barry County, MO to courtroom proceedings. The Combs Waterkotte legal experts are fully transparent through your legal process, giving honest legal advice, strategizing defense tactics, and representing your interests during hearings and trials.
- Case Evaluation in Barry County, MO: One of our first steps is to conduct a thorough evaluation 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 Barry County, MO case.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Our skilled litigators in Barry County, MO excel at presenting compelling arguments on your behalf in court. They cross-examine witnesses, challenge prosecution evidence, and present evidence and testimony in support of the defense. Our goal is to cast reasonable doubt on the Barry 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 Barry County, MO?
Understanding the importance of crime defense lawyers is paramount when facing legal challenges in the Barry County, MO area. You need the Combs Waterkotte team on your side. Call us 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, whether state or federal. In a justice system where state and federal prosecutors hold considerable authority, our Barry 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 Barry 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 a vital 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 Barry County and across Missouri, regardless of your financial means. By providing our services, we ensure that everyone has access to the best possible legal defense.
When you hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the best crime defense lawyers in Barry 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 Barry County, MO residents:

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

