Crime defense lawyers in Crestwood, MO. If you find yourself facing charges, an arrest, or even questioning regarding a crime, whether within Crestwood, MO, or anywhere nearby, securing top-notch legal representation is crucial. Regardless of the gravity of the offense – whether it’s a minor infraction or a more serious felony – the crime defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte are here to provide steadfast support.
Our team of crime defense lawyers serves a vital function in safeguarding the rights and liberties of individuals accused of crimes, not only in Crestwood, but throughout Missouri. Our talented and knowledgeable 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 situations. Our mission is to minimize the impact of criminal charges on your life, reputation, and future prospects. Reach out to our Crestwood, MO crime defense lawyers immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, one-on-one case review to discuss the specifics of your case. 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 Crestwood, MO
The skilled legal team at Combs Waterkotte, renowned as acclaimed criminal defense attorneys in Crestwood, 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
St. Louis County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in St. Louis County and Missouri.
Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Crestwood, MO: Exploring the Differences Between State and Federal Crimes
Understanding the distinction between federal and state crimes is important, as they are governed by 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 Crestwood, MO and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of the fundamental differences between federal and state offenses:
- Jurisdictional Scope: Federal crimes in the Crestwood, MO area transgress laws established by the U.S. federal government, which possess authority over nationwide matters. 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 Crestwood, MO law enforcement agencies.
- Jury Selection: Federal juries are drawn from broader geographical areas, typically spanning entire federal districts, fostering diverse jury compositions. On the other hand, 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 entrusted with investigating and prosecuting federal crimes, holding jurisdiction nationwide. On the other hand, state and local law enforcement entities like Missouri state police departments, Crestwood, MO municipal police forces, and Crestwood, MO and surrounding counties’ sheriff departments investigate and handle state crimes within their respective jurisdictions.
- Legal Frameworks: Federal crimes adhere to regulations outlined in the U.S. Code, a comprehensive compilation of federal statutes ratified 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, family law matters, and property regulations.
- Prosecutorial Process: Federal crimes are typically prosecuted in federal courts presided over by 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, imprisonment in federal corrections facilities, and parole. Conversely, penalties for state crimes exhibit significant variability, with each jurisdiction establishing its sentencing guidelines dictating potential consequences such as fines, probation, imprisonment in state penitentiaries or county jails, and parole.
Feel free to call the Crestwood, MO crime defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for help with any state or federal charges you may be facing.

The Key Responsibilities of the Crestwood, 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 Crestwood, MO to courtroom proceedings. The Combs Waterkotte legal experts are fully transparent throughout your legal process, giving honest legal advice, strategizing defense tactics, and representing your interests during hearings and trials.
- Case Evaluation in Crestwood, 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 helps us formulate an effective defense strategy tailored specifically to the circumstances of your Crestwood, MO case.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Our skilled litigators in Crestwood, MO excel at presenting 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 Crestwood, MO prosecution’s case and secure a verdict of not guilty or minimize the penalties imposed.
- Post-Trial Representation: Even after a conviction, our commitment to your rights doesn’t waver in Crestwood, MO. We continue to advocate on your behalf, filing appeals, seeking post-conviction relief, and pursuing 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 Crestwood, MO?
Crime defense lawyers in Crestwood, MO play a crucial role in upholding the principles of justice and protecting your individual liberties. You deserve the Combs Waterkotte legal team on your side. Give us a call now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online. The following are reasons why our services are indispensable:
- Balancing the legal system in Crestwood, MO. In a justice system where state and federal prosecutors hold considerable authority, our Crestwood, MO crime defense lawyers serve as a vital counterbalance. They advocate for the rights of the accused, striving for fairness and equity in every Crestwood, MO case, whether at the state or federal level.
- Preserving constitutional rights. Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers ensure that individuals accused of crimes in or around Crestwood, MO receive due process and other constitutional protections guaranteed by law. They protect rights such as 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 crucial 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 your access to justice. The Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers provide essential legal representation to individuals from all walks of life throughout Crestwood and across Missouri. Regardless of financial means, our team ensures that everyone has access to top-tier legal defense when facing criminal charges.
When you hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the best crime defense lawyers in Crestwood, MO – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to crime defense, our legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Crestwood, MO residents:

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

