Crime defense lawyers in St. Louis, MO. If you have been charged with, arrested for, or even questioned about a crime anywhere in or around St. Louis, 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 throughout the St. Louis, MO area. Our skilled and experienced legal team is completely devoted to providing expert representation and making sure you receive fair treatment under the law.
Combs Waterkotte recognizes that even the most upstanding individuals can find themselves in challenging situations. Our mission is to minimize the impact of criminal charges on your life, reputation, and future prospects. Reach out to our St. Louis, MO crime defense lawyers immediately 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 …
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 St. Louis, MO Crime Defense Lawyers
The skilled legal team at Combs Waterkotte, renowned as acclaimed criminal defense attorneys in St. Louis, 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
St. Louis City Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in St. Louis and Missouri.
Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in St. Louis, 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 St. Louis, MO and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of the key disparities between federal and state offenses:
- Jurisdictional Scope: Federal crimes in the St. Louis, 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 St. Louis, 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 wide array of perspectives among jurors. On the other hand, 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 entrusted with investigating and prosecuting federal crimes, holding jurisdiction nationwide. On the other hand, state and local law enforcement agencies, such as Missouri state police departments, St. Louis, MO municipal police forces, and sheriff departments in St. Louis, 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 comprehensive compilation of federal statutes ratified by Congress. These laws are uniformly applicable across all states and territories. In contrast, state crimes abide by distinct criminal codes specific to each state, encompassing an array of legal matters like criminal offenses, matters of family law, and property law.
- Prosecutorial Process: Federal crimes are normally litigated in federal courts under the jurisdiction of 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 exhibit significant variability, with each jurisdiction establishing its sentencing guidelines dictating potential consequences like fines, probation, imprisonment in state penitentiaries or county jails, and parole.
Give the St. Louis, MO lawyers at Combs Waterkotte a call today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for help with any state or federal matters you may be facing.
Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in St. Louis, 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 St. Louis, ]state] to courtroom proceedings, we provide transparent and honest legal counsel, strategizing defense tactics, and vigorously representing your interests.
- Case Evaluation in St. Louis, 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 specifically to the circumstances of your St. Louis, MO case.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Our St. Louis, 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 St. Louis, MO prosecution’s case and secure a verdict of not guilty or minimize imposed penalties.
- Post-Trial Representation: Even after a conviction, .
When you choose Combs Waterkotte, you can trust that our dedicated legal team will provide you with the individualized attention, expertise, and unwavering advocacy you deserve.
What’s the Importance of St. Louis, MO Crime Defense Lawyers?
Understanding the significance of crime defense lawyers is paramount when facing legal challenges in the St. Louis, MO area. You need the Combs Waterkotte team on your side. Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online. The following are reasons why our services are indispensable:
- Balancing the legal system, whether state or federal. In a justice system where state and federal prosecutors hold considerable authority, our St. Louis, MO crime defense lawyers serve as a vital counterbalance. They advocate for the rights of the accused, striving for fairness and equity in every St. Louis, 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 St. Louis, 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.
- 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 assess to justice. The Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers provide essential legal representation to individuals from all walks of life throughout St. Louis and across Missouri, regardless of your financial means. By providing 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 St. Louis, 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 St. Louis, MO residents:
- DWI Lawyer With Payment Plans
- Federal Sex Crimes Defense Attorney
- Criminal Defense Lawyer with Payment Plans
Reach Out to the St. Louis, MO Leaders in Crime Defense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte Right Away
If you are facing charges for a crime in St. Louis or anywhere else in Missouri, remain calm. We are here to help. Our St. Louis, MO crime defense lawyers are steadfast advocates who fight for your innocence.
Reach out to Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-obligation consultation with one of our expert attorneys in St. Louis, MO.
