Crime defense lawyers in Pulaski County, MO. If you have been charged with, arrested for, or even questioned about a crime anywhere in or around Pulaski County, 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.
These crime defense lawyers play a pivotal role in protecting the rights and freedoms of clients accused of criminal offenses in Pulaski County and throughout Missouri. Our skilled and experienced legal team is completely dedicated to providing expert representation and making sure you receive fair and equitable treatment under the law.
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 Pulaski County, 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

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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 …

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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 Pulaski County, MO
The skilled legal team at Combs Waterkotte, renowned as acclaimed criminal defense attorneys in Pulaski 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
Pulaski County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Pulaski County and Missouri.
Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Pulaski 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 skilled team of crime defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte is well-versed in federal court proceedings, extending our expertise in Pulaski County, MO and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of the fundamental differences between federal and state offenses:
- Jurisdictional Scope: Federal crimes within the Pulaski County, 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 Pulaski County, MO law enforcement agencies.
- Jury Selection: In the realm of federal law, juries are assembled from broader geographical regions, typically encompassing entire federal districts. This fosters a diverse array of perspectives among jurors. Conversely, state juries often consist 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, holding jurisdiction nationwide. Conversely, state and local law enforcement entities like Missouri state police departments, Pulaski County, MO municipal police forces, and sheriff departments in Pulaski County, 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 passed by Congress. These laws are uniformly 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 litigated in federal courts presided over by 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 include probation, fines, incarceration in federal penitentiaries, 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 Pulaski County, MO crime defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for help with any state or federal charges you may be facing.

The Key Responsibilities of the Pulaski 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: Our crime defense lawyers act as staunch advocates for our clients throughout every stage of the criminal justice process. From initial investigations in Pulaski County, ]state] to courtroom proceedings, we provide transparent and honest legal counsel, strategizing defense tactics, and vigorously representing your interests.
- Case Evaluation in Pulaski County, MO: One of the first steps of a crime defense lawyer is to thoroughly assess the details 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 Pulaski County, MO.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Our Pulaski County, MO criminal defense lawyers are skilled litigators who present 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 Pulaski County, MO prosecution’s case and secure a verdict of not guilty or minimize the penalties imposed.
- Post-Trial Representation: Even after a conviction, our commitment to your rights doesn’t waver in Pulaski County, 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 hire 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 Pulaski County, MO Crime Defense Lawyers?
Crime defense lawyers in Pulaski 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. Give us a call right away 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 Pulaski County, MO. In a justice system where state and federal prosecutors hold considerable authority, our Pulaski 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 Pulaski 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 Pulaski County, 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. 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 the Pulaski 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 choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the best crime defense lawyers in Pulaski County, MO – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with crime defense, our legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Pulaski County and beyond:

The Leading Crime Defense Lawyers in Pulaski County, MO
If you find yourself facing criminal charges in Pulaski County or anywhere else across Missouri, there’s no need to panic. Our team is here to provide the support and expertise you need during this challenging time. Our Pulaski County, MO crime defense lawyers are steadfast advocates, dedicated to fiercely defending your rights and innocence.
Call Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-obligation consultation with one of our expert Pulaski County, MO attorneys.

