Crime defense lawyers in Osage County, MO. If you find yourself facing charges, an arrest, or even questioning regarding a crime, whether within Osage 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 severe felony – the crime defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte are here to provide steadfast support.
These crime defense lawyers play a pivotal role in protecting the rights and freedoms of clients accused of criminal offenses in Osage County and throughout Missouri. Our skilled and experienced legal team is fully 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 circumstances. Our mission is to mitigate the impact of criminal charges on your life, reputation, and future prospects. Reach out to our Osage 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 Crime Defense Lawyers in Osage County, MO
The skilled legal team at Combs Waterkotte, renowned as acclaimed criminal defense attorneys in Osage 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
Osage County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Osage County and Missouri.
Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Osage County, MO: Exploring the Differences 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 esteemed team of crime defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte is well-versed in federal court proceedings, extending our expertise in Osage County, MO and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of the fundamental differences between federal and state offenses:
- Jurisdictional Scope: Federal crimes in the Osage 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 within the purview of state and local Osage 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 often consist of individuals from more localized areas, 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 crimes, maintaining jurisdiction nationwide. Conversely, state and local law enforcement entities like Missouri state police departments, Osage County, MO municipal police forces, and sheriff departments in Osage County, MO and surrounding areas handle investigations and enforcement of state crimes within their respective jurisdictions.
- Legal Frameworks: Federal crimes adhere to regulations outlined in the U.S. Code, a comprehensive compilation 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, encompassing various legal domains such as criminal offenses, matters of family law, and property law.
- Prosecutorial Process: Federal crimes are commonly prosecuted in federal courts under the jurisdiction of 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, incarceration in federal penitentiaries, and parole. Conversely, penalties for state crimes vary extensively, with each jurisdiction establishing its sentencing guidelines dictating potential consequences like fines, probation, imprisonment in state prisons or county jails, and parole.
Feel free to call the Osage County, MO crime defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for assistance with any state or federal crime you may be facing.

Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Osage County, MO: Key Responsibilities
The Combs Waterkotte lawyers take on a range of crucial responsibilities to ensure the best possible outcome for our clients. 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 Osage 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 Osage County, 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 Osage County, MO.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Our skilled litigators in Osage 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. Our goal is to cast reasonable doubt on the Osage 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 rely on the fact that our devoted legal team will provide you with the individualized attention, expertise, and unwavering advocacy you deserve.
What’s the Importance of Crime Defense Lawyers in Osage County, MO?
Crime defense lawyers in Osage County, MO play a crucial role in upholding the principles of justice and protecting your individual liberties. You deserve the Combs Waterkotte legal team on your side. Call us 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 Osage County, MO. In a justice system where state and federal prosecutors hold considerable authority, our Osage 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 Osage County, MO case, whether at the state or federal level.
- Preserving your constitutional rights. Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers ensure that individuals accused of crimes in or around Osage County, 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.
- Preventing miscarriages of justice. Our criminal defense attorneys play an important 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 Osage County, MO area. Regardless of financial means, our team ensures that everyone has access to top-tier legal defense when facing criminal charges.
When you partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the best crime defense lawyers in Osage County, MO – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to crime defense, our legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Osage County and beyond:

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

