Crime defense lawyers in Moniteau County, MO. If you have been charged with, arrested for, or even questioned about a crime in Moniteau County, MO, you need the best possible legal representation fighting for you. 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 Moniteau County, but throughout Missouri. Our talented and knowledgeable legal team is completely dedicated 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 mitigate the impact of criminal charges on your life, reputation, and future prospects. Call our Moniteau 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 Moniteau County, MO
The skilled legal team at Combs Waterkotte, renowned as acclaimed criminal defense attorneys in Moniteau County, 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 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
Moniteau County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Moniteau County and Missouri.
Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Moniteau County, 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 esteemed team of crime defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte is well-versed in federal court proceedings, extending our expertise in Moniteau County, MO and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of the fundamental differences between federal and state offenses:
- Jurisdictional Scope: Federal crimes within the Moniteau 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 (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 Moniteau County, MO law enforcement agencies.
- Jury Selection: In the realm of federal law, juries are assembled from broader geographical regions, typically including entire federal districts. This fosters a wide array of prospective jurors. On the other hand, state juries are commonly composed of individuals from more localized regions, reflecting the demographic makeup of their specific jurisdictions.
- Investigative Authorities: Federal law enforcement bodies like 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, Moniteau County, MO municipal police forces, and Moniteau County, MO and surrounding counties’ sheriff departments investigate and handle state crimes within their respective jurisdictions.
- Legal Frameworks: Federal crimes adhere to regulations delineated 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 abide by distinct criminal codes specific to each state, encompassing various legal domains such as criminal offenses, matters of family law, and property law.
- Prosecutorial Process: Federal crimes are typically prosecuted in federal courts under the jurisdiction of federal judges. Conversely, state crimes are prosecuted by district attorneys or state prosecutors representing the state government, adjudicated in state courts under the jurisdiction of state judges.
- Penalties: Federal penalties may encompass probation, fines, incarceration in federal penitentiaries, 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.
Feel free to call the Moniteau County, MO crime defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or connect with us online for help with any state or federal matters you may be facing.

The Key Responsibilities of the Moniteau County, 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 Moniteau 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 Moniteau 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 to your unique circumstances in Moniteau County, MO.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Our skilled litigators in Moniteau County, 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 Moniteau County, 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 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 Moniteau County, MO Crime Defense Lawyers?
Understanding the importance of crime defense lawyers is paramount when facing legal challenges in the Moniteau County, 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. The following are reasons why our services are indispensable:
- Balancing the legal system in Moniteau County, MO. In a justice system where state and federal prosecutors hold considerable authority, our Moniteau 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 Moniteau County, 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. 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 Moniteau County and across Missouri. 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 Moniteau 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 Moniteau County and beyond:

Combs Waterkotte
If you are facing charges for a crime in Moniteau County or anywhere else in Missouri, remain calm. We are here to help. Our Moniteau County, MO crime defense lawyers are indispensable advocates who fight for your innocence.
Call 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 Moniteau County, MO.

