Crime defense lawyers in Monroe County, MO. If you find yourself facing charges, an arrest, or even questioning regarding a crime, whether within Monroe County, 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 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 Monroe County, but throughout Missouri. Our talented and knowledgeable legal team is fully dedicated to providing expert representation and making sure you receive fair treatment within the legal system.
Combs Waterkotte recognizes that even the most upstanding individuals can find themselves in challenging circumstances. Our mission is to minimize the impact of criminal charges on your life, reputation, and future prospects. Reach out to our Monroe County, 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 Monroe County, MO Crime Defense Lawyers
The skilled legal team at Combs Waterkotte, renowned as acclaimed criminal defense attorneys in Monroe County, 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
Monroe County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Monroe County and Missouri.
Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Monroe County, MO: Exploring the Differences 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 Monroe County, MO and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of the fundamental differences between federal and state offenses:
- Jurisdictional Scope: Federal crimes in the Monroe County, MO area transgress laws established by the U.S. federal government, which possess authority over nationwide matters. These offenses include 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 Monroe County, 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 areas, 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, maintaining jurisdiction nationwide. Conversely, state and local law enforcement entities like Missouri state police departments, Monroe County, MO municipal police forces, and Monroe County, 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 uniformly applicable across all states and territories. Conversely, state crimes abide by distinct criminal codes specific to each state, covering an array of legal matters like criminal offenses, matters of family law, and property regulations.
- Prosecutorial Process: Federal crimes are typically prosecuted in federal courts presided over by federal judges. Conversely, 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 possessing its sentencing guidelines dictating potential consequences such as fines, probation, imprisonment in state prisons or county jails, and parole.
Give the Monroe County, MO lawyers at Combs Waterkotte a call right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for assistance with any state or federal charges you may be facing.

Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Monroe County, MO: Key Responsibilities
The Combs Waterkotte lawyers take on a range of vital responsibilities to ensure the best possible outcome. Here’s what you expect when you enlist our legal representation:
- Legal Representation: Crime defense lawyers serve as advocates for their clients throughout the stages of the criminal justice programs, from pretrial investigations in Monroe County, 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 Monroe 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 Monroe County, MO.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Our Monroe County, MO criminal defense lawyers are skilled litigators who present 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 Monroe County, MO prosecution’s case and secure a verdict of not guilty or minimize imposed penalties.
- Post-Trial Representation: Even after a conviction, .
When you pick 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 Crime Defense Lawyers in Monroe County, MO?
Crime defense lawyers in Monroe County, 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 in Monroe County, MO. In a justice system where state and federal prosecutors hold considerable authority, our Monroe 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 Monroe 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.
- Preventing miscarriages of justice. Our criminal defense attorneys play a vital 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 Monroe County and across Missouri, regardless of your financial means. By offering 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 Monroe County, 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 Monroe County, MO residents:

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

