Crime defense lawyers in Dent County, MO. If you find yourself facing charges, an arrest, or even questioning regarding a crime, whether within Dent 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 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 criminal wrongdoing, not only in Dent County, but throughout Missouri. Our skilled and experienced legal team is fully dedicated to providing expert representation and making sure you receive fair treatment within the legal system.
Combs Waterkotte recognizes that even the most upstanding individuals can find themselves in challenging circumstances. Our mission is to minimize the impact of criminal charges on your life, reputation, and future prospects. Call our Dent County, MO crime defense lawyers as soon as possible 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 Dent County, MO
The Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers, also known as award-winning criminal defense attorneys in Dent County, MO, specialize in representing clients facing criminal charges and advocating for the best possible outcome in their case. Our knowledgeable attorneys defend all cases and criminal charges both at the state and federal level, 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
Dent County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Dent County and Missouri.
Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Dent County, MO: Exploring the Differences 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 Dent County, MO and beyond. The following is a breakdown of the key disparities between federal and state offenses:
- Jurisdictional Scope: Federal crimes in the Dent 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 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 Dent County, MO law enforcement agencies.
- Jury Selection: In the realm of federal law, juries are assembled from broader geographical regions, typically encompassing entire federal districts. This fosters a diverse array of perspectives among jurors. Conversely, state juries are commonly composed of individuals from more localized regions, reflecting the demographic makeup of their specific jurisdictions.
- Investigative Authorities: Federal law enforcement entities such as the FBI, DEA, and ATF are entrusted with investigating and prosecuting federal offenses, maintaining jurisdiction nationwide. Conversely, state and local law enforcement agencies, such as Missouri state police departments, Dent County, MO municipal police forces, and Dent County, MO and surrounding counties’ sheriff departments .
- Legal Frameworks: Federal crimes adhere to regulations outlined in the U.S. Code, a comprehensive compilation of federal statutes enacted 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 various legal domains such as criminal offenses, family law matters, and property regulations.
- Prosecutorial Process: Federal crimes are normally prosecuted in federal courts presided over by 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 may encompass probation, fines, imprisonment in federal corrections facilities, and parole. Conversely, penalties for state crimes vary extensively, with each jurisdiction establishing its 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 Dent County, MO attorneys at Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for help with any state or federal charges you may be facing.

Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Dent County, MO: Key Responsibilities
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 Dent 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 Dent County, 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 helps us formulate an effective defense strategy tailored specifically to the circumstances of your Dent County, MO case.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Our skilled litigators in Dent County, MO excel at presenting 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 Dent County, MO prosecution’s case and secure a verdict of not guilty or minimize imposed penalties.
- Post-Trial Representation: Even after a conviction, our commitment to your rights doesn’t waver in Dent County, 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 choose Combs Waterkotte, you can rely on the fact that our dedicated legal team will provide you with the individualized attention, expertise, and unwavering advocacy you deserve.
What’s the Importance of Dent County, MO Crime Defense Lawyers?
Crime defense lawyers in Dent County, 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. Here’s why enlisting the support of the Combs Waterkotte team is essential:
- Balancing the legal system in Dent County, MO. In a justice system where state and federal prosecutors hold considerable authority, our Dent 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 Dent 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 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 the Dent County, MO area. Regardless of financial means, our team ensures that everyone has access to top-tier legal defense when facing criminal charges.
When you choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the best crime defense lawyers in Dent County, MO – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with crime defense, our legal team provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Dent County and beyond:

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

