Crime defense lawyers in Hazelwood, MO. If you find yourself facing charges, an arrest, or even questioning regarding a crime, whether within Hazelwood, 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 severe 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 Hazelwood, but throughout Missouri. Our skilled and experienced legal team is completely devoted to providing expert representation and ensuring you receive fair and equitable treatment within the legal system.
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 Hazelwood, MO crime defense lawyers as soon as possible 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 …
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 Hazelwood, MO
The skilled legal team at Combs Waterkotte, renowned as acclaimed criminal defense attorneys in Hazelwood, 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 Hazelwood, MO: What’s the Difference Between State and Federal Crimes?
Understanding the difference 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 Hazelwood, MO and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of the fundamental differences between federal and state offenses:
- Jurisdictional Scope: Federal crimes within the Hazelwood, 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 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 under the jurisdiction of state and local Hazelwood, 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 wide array of perspectives among jurors. Conversely, state juries are commonly composed of individuals from more localized regions, reflecting the demographic makeup of their respective jurisdictions.
- Investigative Authorities: Federal law enforcement bodies like the FBI, DEA, and ATF are entrusted with investigating and prosecuting federal crimes, holding jurisdiction nationwide. Conversely, state and local law enforcement entities like Missouri state police departments, Hazelwood, MO municipal police forces, and sheriff departments in Hazelwood, MO and surrounding areas .
- Legal Frameworks: Federal crimes adhere to regulations delineated in the U.S. Code, a compendium of federal statutes ratified by Congress. These laws are uniformly applicable across all states and territories. In contrast, state crimes abide by specific criminal codes unique to each state, covering various legal domains such as criminal offenses, matters of family law, and property regulations.
- Prosecutorial Process: Federal crimes are commonly litigated in federal courts under the jurisdiction of federal judges. In contrast, state crimes are prosecuted by district attorneys or state prosecutors representing the state government, with cases adjudicated in state courts overseen by state judges.
- Penalties: Federal penalties include 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 Hazelwood, MO attorneys at Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for assistance with any state or federal crime you may be facing.
The Key Responsibilities of the Hazelwood, 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: Our crime defense lawyers act as staunch advocates for our clients throughout every stage of the criminal justice process. From initial investigations in Hazelwood, ]state] to courtroom proceedings, we provide transparent and honest legal counsel, strategizing defense tactics, and vigorously representing your interests.
- Case Evaluation in Hazelwood, 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 allows us to develop an effective defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances in Hazelwood, MO.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Our skilled litigators in Hazelwood, MO excel at presenting compelling arguments on your behalf in court. We adeptly 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 Hazelwood, 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 Hazelwood, 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 Hazelwood, MO Crime Defense Lawyers?
Crime defense lawyers in Hazelwood, 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. Give us a call today 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 Hazelwood, MO crime defense lawyers serve as a vital counterbalance. They advocate for the rights of the accused, striving for fairness and equity in every Hazelwood, 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 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 Hazelwood and across Missouri, no matter your financial means. By offering our services, we ensure that everyone has access to the best possible legal defense.
When you hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the best crime defense lawyers in Hazelwood, 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 Hazelwood, MO residents:
Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing charges for a crime in Hazelwood or anywhere else in Missouri, remain calm. We are here to help. Our Hazelwood, 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 for a no-obligation case review with one of our expert Hazelwood, MO attorneys.
