Crime defense lawyers in Eureka, MO. If you find yourself facing charges, an arrest, or even questioning regarding a crime, whether within Eureka, 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 Eureka, but throughout Missouri. Our skilled and experienced legal team is fully dedicated to providing expert representation and making sure you receive fair and equitable treatment under the law.
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. Reach out to our Eureka, MO crime defense lawyers as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or conveniently contact us online for a free, confidential case evaluation. 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 Eureka, MO
The skilled legal team at Combs Waterkotte, renowned as acclaimed criminal defense attorneys in Eureka, 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 variety 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 Eureka, 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 Eureka, MO and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of the key disparities between federal and state offenses:
- Jurisdictional Scope: Federal crimes within the Eureka, 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 Eureka, 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 often consist 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 crimes, maintaining jurisdiction nationwide. On the other hand, state and local law enforcement entities like Missouri state police departments, Eureka, MO municipal police forces, and sheriff departments in Eureka, MO and surrounding areas .
- 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 uniformly applicable across all states and territories. In contrast, state crimes are governed by specific criminal codes unique to each state, encompassing various legal domains such as criminal offenses, family law matters, and property regulations.
- Prosecutorial Process: Federal crimes are commonly prosecuted in federal courts under the jurisdiction of federal judges. In contrast, state crimes are prosecuted by district attorneys or state prosecutors representing state governments, adjudicated in state courts under the jurisdiction of state judges.
- Penalties: Federal penalties include probation, fines, incarceration in federal penitentiaries, and parole. Conversely, penalties for state crimes vary extensively, with each jurisdiction having its own sentencing guidelines dictating potential consequences like fines, probation, imprisonment in state penitentiaries or county jails, and parole.
Feel free to call the Eureka, MO crime defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for help with any state or federal crime you may be facing.

The Key Responsibilities of the Eureka, 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 Eureka, 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 Eureka, 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 helps us formulate an effective defense strategy tailored specifically to the circumstances of your Eureka, MO case.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Our skilled litigators in Eureka, 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. The goal is to cast reasonable doubt on the Eureka, MO prosecution’s case and secure a verdict of not guilty or minimize imposed penalties.
- 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 hire 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 Eureka, MO Crime Defense Lawyers?
Understanding the importance of crime defense lawyers is paramount when facing legal challenges in the Eureka, MO area. You need the Combs Waterkotte team on your side. Call us 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 Eureka, MO. In a justice system where state and federal prosecutors hold considerable authority, our Eureka, MO crime defense lawyers serve as a vital counterbalance. They advocate for the rights of the accused, striving for fairness and equity in every Eureka, MO case, whether at the state or federal level.
- Preserving your constitutional rights. Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers ensure that individuals accused of crimes in or around Eureka, MO receive due process and other constitutional protections guaranteed by law. They safeguard 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. Their thorough investigation, diligent advocacy, and commitment to zealous representation help uncover the truth and make sure 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 Eureka and across Missouri, no matter your financial means. By providing our services, we ensure that everyone has access to the best possible legal defense.
When you choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the best crime defense lawyers in Eureka, 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 Eureka, MO residents:

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

