Crime defense lawyers in Washington, MO. If you find yourself facing charges, an arrest, or even questioning regarding a crime, whether within Washington, MO, or anywhere nearby, securing top-notch legal representation is crucial. No matter 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 crimes, not only in Washington, but throughout Missouri. Our talented and knowledgeable legal team is completely dedicated to providing expert representation and making sure you receive fair and equitable treatment under the law.
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 Washington, MO crime defense lawyers as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or conveniently contact us online for a free, confidential case evaluation. 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 …
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 Washington, MO Crime Defense Lawyers
The Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers, also known as award-winning criminal defense attorneys in Washington, MO, specialize in representing clients facing criminal charges and advocating for the best possible outcome in their case. Our knowledgeable attorneys defend all cases and criminal charges both at the state and federal level, 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
Franklin County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Franklin County and Missouri.
Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Washington, 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 Washington, MO and beyond. The following is a breakdown of the key disparities between federal and state offenses:
- Jurisdictional Scope: Federal crimes within the Washington, 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 (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 Washington, MO law enforcement agencies.
- Jury Selection: In the realm of federal law, juries are assembled from broader geographical regions, commonly 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 crimes, holding jurisdiction nationwide. On the other hand, state and local law enforcement entities like Missouri state police departments, Washington, MO municipal police forces, and Washington, MO and surrounding areas’ 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 passed 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, covering an array of legal matters like criminal offenses, family law matters, and property regulations.
- Prosecutorial Process: Federal crimes are normally litigated in federal courts presided over by federal judges. In contrast, 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, imprisonment in federal corrections facilities, and parole. Conversely, penalties for state crimes exhibit significant variability, with each jurisdiction possessing its sentencing guidelines dictating potential consequences like fines, probation, imprisonment in state prisons or county jails, and parole.
Feel free to call the Washington, 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 matters you may be facing.
Combs Waterkotte Crime Defense Lawyers in Washington, MO: Key Responsibilities
The Combs Waterkotte lawyers take on a range of crucial responsibilities to ensure the best possible outcome. Here’s what you expect when you hire our lawyers:
- Legal Representation: Crime defense lawyers serve as advocates for their clients throughout the stages of the criminal justice programs, from pretrial investigations in Washington, 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 Washington, 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 allows us to develop an effective defense strategy tailored specifically to the circumstances of your Washington, MO case.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Our skilled litigators in Washington, MO excel at presenting 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 Washington, 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 Washington, MO?
Understanding the importance of crime defense lawyers is paramount when facing legal challenges in the Washington, MO area. You need the Combs Waterkotte 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, whether state or federal. In a criminal justice system where a state or federal prosecutor wields significant power, our crime defense lawyers serve as a counterbalance, advocating for the rights of the accused and promoting fairness and equity.
- Preserving your constitutional rights. Combs Waterkotte crime defense lawyers ensure that individuals accused of crimes in or around Washington, 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. 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 Washington 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 partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the best crime defense lawyers in Washington, 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 Washington and beyond:
The Leading Crime Defense Lawyers in Washington, MO
If you are facing charges for a crime in Washington or anywhere else in Missouri, remain calm. We are here to help. Our Washington, 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 for a no-obligation case review with one of our expert attorneys in Washington, MO.
