Crime defense lawyers in Cape Girardeau, MO. If you have been charged with, arrested for, or even questioned about a crime in Cape Girardeau, MO, you need the best possible legal representation on your side. 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.
These crime defense lawyers play a pivotal role in protecting the rights and freedoms of clients accused of criminal offenses in Cape Girardeau and throughout Missouri. Our talented and knowledgeable legal team is fully dedicated to providing expert representation and ensuring you receive fair and equitable treatment under the law.
Combs Waterkotte recognizes that even the most upstanding individuals can find themselves in challenging situations. Our mission is to mitigate the impact of criminal charges on your life, reputation, and future prospects. Reach out to our Cape Girardeau, 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 Cape Girardeau, MO
The skilled legal team at Combs Waterkotte, renowned as acclaimed criminal defense attorneys in Cape Girardeau, MO, are dedicated 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
Cape Girardeau County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Cape Girardeau County and Missouri.
Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Cape Girardeau, MO: Exploring the Differences Between State and Federal Crimes
Understanding the distinction 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 Cape Girardeau, MO and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of the fundamental differences between federal and state offenses:
- Jurisdictional Scope: Federal crimes within the Cape Girardeau, 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 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 Cape Girardeau, 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 perspectives among jurors. Conversely, state juries are commonly composed of individuals from more localized areas, reflecting the demographic makeup of their specific jurisdictions.
- Investigative Authorities: Federal law enforcement bodies like the FBI, DEA, and ATF are tasked with investigating and prosecuting federal offenses, maintaining jurisdiction nationwide. On the other hand, state and local law enforcement entities like Missouri state police departments, Cape Girardeau, MO municipal police forces, and Cape Girardeau, MO and surrounding areas’ 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 enacted by Congress. These laws are applicable across all states and territories. In contrast, state crimes are governed by distinct criminal codes specific to each state, encompassing various legal domains such as criminal offenses, matters of family law, and property regulations.
- Prosecutorial Process: Federal crimes are commonly prosecuted in federal courts under the jurisdiction of federal judges. Conversely, 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 may encompass 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 like fines, probation, imprisonment in state prisons or county jails, and parole.
Give the Cape Girardeau, MO lawyers at Combs Waterkotte a call right now at (314) 900-HELP or connect with us online for help with any state or federal charges you may be facing.

Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Cape Girardeau, MO: Key Responsibilities
The Combs Waterkotte lawyers take on a range of vital responsibilities to ensure the best possible outcome for our clients. Here’s what you expect when you enlist our legal representation:
- 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 Cape Girardeau, ]state] to courtroom proceedings, we provide transparent and honest legal counsel, strategizing defense tactics, and vigorously representing your interests.
- Case Evaluation in Cape Girardeau, 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 Cape Girardeau, MO case.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Our Cape Girardeau, MO criminal defense lawyers are skilled litigators who present compelling arguments on your behalf in court. They cross-examine witnesses, challenge prosecution evidence, and present evidence and testimony in support of the defense. The goal is to cast reasonable doubt on the Cape Girardeau, MO prosecution’s case and secure a verdict of not guilty or minimize the penalties imposed.
- Post-Trial Representation: Even after a conviction, your criminal defense lawyer will continue to advocate for your rights. Your attorney may file appeals, seek post-conviction relief, or pursue other legal remedies to overturn wrongful convictions or mitigate the consequences of a guilty verdict.
When you pick Combs Waterkotte, you can rely on the fact that our dedicated 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 Cape Girardeau, MO?
Crime defense lawyers in Cape Girardeau, 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 right away 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 in Cape Girardeau, MO. In a justice system where state and federal prosecutors hold considerable authority, our Cape Girardeau, MO crime defense lawyers serve as a vital counterbalance. They advocate for the rights of the accused, striving for fairness and equity in every Cape Girardeau, MO case, whether at the state or federal level.
- Preserving 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.
- Protecting against miscarriages of justice. Our criminal defense attorneys play an important role in preventing miscarriages of justice. Through thorough investigation, diligent advocacy, and unwavering representation, they strive to uncover the truth and ensure 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 the Cape Girardeau, MO area, regardless of your financial means. By offering our services, we ensure that everyone has access to the best possible legal defense.
When you partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the best crime defense lawyers in Cape Girardeau, 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 Cape Girardeau, MO residents:

Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing charges for a crime in Cape Girardeau or anywhere else in Missouri, remain calm. We are here to help. Our Cape Girardeau, MO crime defense lawyers are steadfast advocates who fight for your innocence.
Reach out to Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a no-obligation case review with one of our expert Cape Girardeau, MO attorneys.

