Crime defense lawyers in Maryville, MO. If you find yourself facing charges, an arrest, or even questioning regarding a crime, whether within Maryville, 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 Maryville, but throughout Missouri. Our skilled and experienced legal team is completely devoted to providing expert representation and making sure you receive fair treatment within the legal system.
Combs Waterkotte understands all too well that sometimes good people find themselves in bad situations, and we work to mitigate the effect criminal charges can have on you, your reputation, and your future. Call our Maryville, 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 Maryville, MO Crime Defense Lawyers
The Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers, also known as award-winning criminal defense attorneys in Maryville, 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
Nodaway County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Nodaway County and Missouri.
Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Maryville, 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 Maryville, MO and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of the key disparities between federal and state offenses:
- Jurisdictional Scope: Federal crimes within the Maryville, 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 under the jurisdiction of state and local Maryville, MO law enforcement agencies.
- Jury Selection: Federal juries are drawn from broader geographical areas, typically spanning entire federal districts, fostering diverse jury compositions. 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 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, Maryville, MO municipal police forces, and sheriff departments in Maryville, MO and surrounding areas 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. Conversely, state crimes are governed by distinct criminal codes specific 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 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 include probation, fines, imprisonment in federal corrections facilities, and parole. Conversely, penalties for state crimes exhibit significant variability, with each jurisdiction possessing its sentencing guidelines dictating potential consequences such as fines, probation, imprisonment in state prisons or county jails, and parole.
Feel free to call the Maryville, MO crime defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte right now at (314) 900-HELP or connect with us online for help with any state or federal matters you may be facing.

Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Maryville, 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: Our crime defense lawyers act as staunch advocates for our clients throughout every stage of the criminal justice process. From initial investigations in Maryville, ]state] to courtroom proceedings, we provide transparent and honest legal counsel, strategizing defense tactics, and vigorously representing your interests.
- Case Evaluation in Maryville, 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 to your unique circumstances in Maryville, MO.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Our skilled litigators in Maryville, MO excel at presenting compelling arguments on your behalf in court. They 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 Maryville, 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 Maryville, 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 trust 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 Maryville, MO Crime Defense Lawyers?
Understanding the importance of crime defense lawyers is paramount when facing legal challenges in the Maryville, MO area. You deserve the Combs Waterkotte legal team on your side. Give us a call today 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 Maryville, MO. In a justice system where state and federal prosecutors hold considerable authority, our Maryville, MO crime defense lawyers serve as a vital counterbalance. They advocate for the rights of the accused, striving for fairness and equity in every Maryville, 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 Maryville, 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.
- 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 Maryville, MO area, no matter your financial means. By offering our services, we ensure that everyone has access to the best possible legal defense.
When you partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the best crime defense lawyers in Maryville, 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 residents in Maryville and beyond:

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

