Crime defense lawyers in Manchester, MO. If you’ve been charged with, arrested for, or even questioned about a crime in Manchester, 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.
Our team of crime defense lawyers serves a vital function in safeguarding the rights and liberties of individuals accused of crimes, not only in Manchester, but throughout Missouri. Our skilled and experienced legal team is completely dedicated to providing expert representation and ensuring you receive fair 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. Call our Manchester, 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 Manchester, MO Crime Defense Lawyers
The Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers, also known as award-winning criminal defense attorneys in Manchester, 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
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 Manchester, MO: What’s the Difference 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 Manchester, MO and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of the fundamental differences between federal and state offenses:
- Jurisdictional Scope: Federal crimes within the Manchester, 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 Manchester, 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 tasked with investigating and prosecuting federal offenses, holding jurisdiction nationwide. Conversely, state and local law enforcement agencies, such as Missouri state police departments, Manchester, MO municipal police forces, and Manchester, MO and surrounding areas’ 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 compendium of federal statutes ratified by Congress. These laws are applicable across all states and territories. In contrast, state crimes are governed by specific criminal codes unique to each state, covering an array of legal matters like criminal offenses, family law matters, and property law.
- Prosecutorial Process: Federal crimes are commonly prosecuted in federal courts presided over by 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 exhibit significant variability, with each jurisdiction establishing its sentencing guidelines dictating potential consequences such as fines, probation, imprisonment in state prisons or county jails, and parole.
Feel free to call the Manchester, 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 matters you may be facing.
The Key Responsibilities of the Manchester, 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 Manchester, ]state] to courtroom proceedings, we provide transparent and honest legal counsel, strategizing defense tactics, and vigorously representing your interests.
- Case Evaluation in Manchester, 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 to your unique circumstances in Manchester, MO.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Our Manchester, MO criminal defense lawyers are skilled litigators who present 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. The goal is to cast reasonable doubt on the Manchester, MO prosecution’s case and secure a verdict of not guilty or minimize the penalties imposed.
- Post-Trial Representation: Even after a conviction, .
When you choose Combs Waterkotte, you can trust that our devoted team of crime defense lawyers will provide you with the individualized attention, expertise, and unwavering advocacy you deserve.
What’s the Importance of Manchester, MO Crime Defense Lawyers?
Understanding the significance of crime defense lawyers is paramount when facing legal challenges in the Manchester, MO area. You need the Combs Waterkotte team on your side. Call us right away 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 Manchester, MO crime defense lawyers serve as a vital counterbalance. They advocate for the rights of the accused, striving for fairness and equity in every Manchester, 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 Manchester, 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.
- Protecting against miscarriages of justice. Our criminal defense attorneys play a vital 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 Manchester, MO area, no matter your financial means. By providing our services, we ensure that everyone has access to the best possible legal defense.
When you hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the best crime defense lawyers in Manchester, 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 Manchester, MO residents:
Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing charges for a crime in Manchester or anywhere else in Missouri, remain calm. We are here to help. Our Manchester, MO crime defense lawyers are steadfast advocates, dedicated to fiercely defending your rights and innocence.
Reach out to Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-obligation consultation with one of our expert attorneys in Manchester, MO.
