Criminal Defense Attorney Des Peres, MO

Des Peres, MO criminal defense attorney. Being arrested or accused of a crime can be one of the most overwhelming moments of your life. But a criminal charge is not the end of your story. With an experienced criminal defense attorney in Des Peres, MO from Combs Waterkotte by your side, you can protect your rights, fight for your freedom, and move forward with confidence.

At Combs Waterkotte, we’ve built a reputation as Des Peres’s premier criminal defense firm by combining aggressive advocacy with strategic legal insight. Our Des Peres, MO criminal defense lawyers handle cases at every level—from misdemeanors and felonies to high-stakes federal prosecutions. We don’t just defend cases; we defend your future.

With over six decades of combined experience and a proven record of results, our attorneys have successfully represented thousands of clients across Missouri. If you’re facing criminal charges in Des Peres, MO, call (314) 900-HELP or contact us online today for a free, confidential consultation.

Overview of This Article

Facing criminal charges in Des Peres, MO can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life — but understanding your rights and options can make all the difference. This page breaks down everything you need to know about criminal defense in Des Peres, MO and throughout Missouri, including felony and misdemeanor laws, federal prosecution, sentencing, and how the team at Combs Waterkotte fights to protect your future.

Inside this guide, you’ll discover:

• The critical first steps to take after an arrest in Des Peres, MO
• How state and federal criminal processes differ—and what that means for you
• Penalties and sentencing for misdemeanors and felonies in Des Peres, MO
• How Combs Waterkotte defends clients in complex drug, DUI, sex crime, and violent crime cases in Des Peres, MO and beyond
• Why thousands across Missouri trust our firm when their future is on the line
• How our experience and strategy can help you secure the best possible outcome in Des Peres, MO.

What to Do After You’re Arrested in Des Peres, MO

Being arrested can be frightening and confusing—especially if it’s your first time dealing with the Des Peres, MO criminal justice system. The steps you take in the hours following your arrest can have a major impact on your case’s outcome. Here are the steps to take immediately if you or someone you love has been arrested in Des Peres, MO:

Step 1: Stay Calm and Cooperate

Even if you believe the arrest is unfair, do not argue or resist. Resisting arrest in the Des Peres, MO area, even verbally, can result in additional charges and make your situation worse. Stay calm, keep your hands visible, and comply with police instructions. Everything you say or do will be closely observed and may later be used against you in court.

Step 2: Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent

After giving your basic information, stop talking. You have the right to remain silent, and exercising it can make all the difference in your case. Politely say, “I choose to remain silent and would like to speak with my lawyer.” Don’t try to explain or tell your side of the story on the spot—that’s your attorney’s job. Anything you say now can be twisted and used against you later in court.

Step 3: Ask for a Des Peres, MO Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately

Before answering any questions or signing any documents, ask to speak with your lawyer. This is your legal right under the U.S. Constitution. Having a Des Peres, MO criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte involved early means:

• Law enforcement and investigators must go through your lawyer for all communication
• Your legal rights will be protected at every stage of the process
• Our team can start gathering and preserving key evidence immediately in Des Peres, MO
• Our attorneys are available 24/7 for emergency calls after an arrest in Des Peres, MO—day or night.

Step 4: Avoid Discussing Your Des Peres, MO Case with Anyone

Do not discuss your arrest or charges with friends, family, or anyone else—especially online or through text. Prosecutors can subpoena social media posts, messages, or even casual statements made to others. Only speak about your Des Peres, MO case with your attorney and legal team.

Step 5: Don’t Consent to Searches Without a Warrant

Police may ask to look through your phone, your car, or even your home—but unless they show a legitimate warrant, you can and should say no. Politely respond, “I don’t consent to any searches.” You have every right to protect your privacy and property from unlawful investigation in the Des Peres, MO area.

If police collect evidence without a valid warrant, that evidence can often be thrown out in court. This single step could make or break your case.

Step 6: Get Out on Bail or Release Quickly

After booking, you’ll be taken to a detention facility near Des Peres, MO. Depending on your charges, you may be eligible for bond or release on recognizance. Our Des Peres, MO criminal defense attorneys can:

• File for a bond reduction hearing
• Advocate for release pending trial
• Work directly with bail bondsmen to secure your release fast
• Early release allows you to continue working, caring for family, and helping with your defense

Step 7: Document Everything You Remember

As soon as possible, write down everything you can recall about the arrest—including what officers said or did, the time and location, any witnesses present, and any searches conducted. These details may become vital later in identifying police misconduct or procedural errors.

If you partner with a Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney in or around Des Peres, MO, you aren’t just selecting the ideal criminal defense attorney in and around Des Peres, MO – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to knowledgeable criminal defense lawyers, our staff is available 24/7 and provides experience and expertise in the following areas for Des Peres, MO residents:

A Comprehensive Des Peres, MO Criminal Defense Firm

The Des Peres, MO criminal defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte handle all levels of criminal cases—from traffic tickets and misdemeanors to serious felony and federal offenses.

Our legal team defends clients throughout Des Peres, MO in cases such as:

• DWI Defense
• Assault and Battery
• Domestic Violence
• Drug Charges & Possession
• Drug Trafficking
• Weapons & Gun Crimes
• Sex Crimes
• Theft & Larceny
• Credit Card & Financial Fraud
• Homicide & Manslaughter
• Probation Violations
• Motor Vehicle Tampering
• View all practice areas

Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Des Peres, MO

Being charged with a federal crime is vastly different, and far more serious, than facing charges in state court. Federal prosecutors have nearly unlimited resources, extensive investigative power, and a conviction rate of over 90%, according to Pew Research.

At Combs Waterkotte, our Des Peres, MO federal criminal defense attorneys are equipped to take on the most complex and high-stakes federal cases. With decades of combined courtroom experience, we stand up to the U.S. Department of Justice and other federal agencies to protect our clients’ rights. We handle a wide range of federal offenses, including:

• Federal Drug Trafficking
• Federal Wire Fraud
• Federal Mail Fraud
• Federal Internet Fraud
• Federal Tax Evasions & Fraud
• Federal White Collar Crimes
• Federal Espionage & National Security Violations
• Federal Computer & Cyber Crimes
• Federal Kidnapping
• Federal Embezzlement
• Federal Conspiracy

We understand that federal prosecutors are driven to win. They often push for plea bargains that result in lengthy prison sentences and lifelong records. Our firm’s approach is different—we challenge the evidence, expose procedural errors, and fight to have charges dismissed or reduced before they ever reach a plea stage.

Learn more about how we handle Des Peres, MO federal criminal cases, what makes them unique, and how they are different from state cases.

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Des Peres Criminal Charges and Consequences Under Missouri Law

No matter how minor the charge, a criminal conviction in Des Peres, MO can follow you for years. Misdemeanors can bring fines, probation, or short jail terms—but felony convictions carry much heavier penalties, including long prison sentences and the loss of important civil rights like voting, gun ownership, and eligibility for certain jobs.

Convicted felons are barredConvicted felons in Missouri are barred from owning weapons, running for public office, or serving on juries. They must often disclose their criminal status on job or housing applications, which can make rebuilding their lives extremely difficult.

However, there is hope. Missouri law provides ways to restore your rights, including expungement, pardon, or record sealing. The Des Peres, MO attorneys at Combs Waterkotte can help you explore your post-conviction options and start reclaiming your freedom.

Felony Levels and Possible Penalties in Des Peres, MO

Felonies in Missouri are classified by severity, each carrying its own range of punishments:

• Class A Felony — 10 to 30 years in state prison, or life imprisonment
• Class B Felony — at least 5 but no more than 15 years in prison
• Class C Felony — between 3 and 10 years in prison
• Class D Felony — no more than 7 years in prison
• Class E Felony — up to 4 years in prison

Factors like prior offenses, use of weapons, or crimes motivated by bias can increase the severity of a charge and the sentence you face. The good news is that a knowledgeable Des Peres, MO criminal defense lawyer can often step in early to negotiate reduced charges, alternative sentencing options, or even a complete dismissal — helping you protect your record and your future.

Misdemeanor Classifications and Penalties in Des Peres, MO

Not all criminal charges are felonies, but even a misdemeanor in Missouri can have serious consequences if it’s not properly addressed. Misdemeanors are classified into four categories, each with different potential penalties:

• Class A Misdemeanor — Up to 1 year in jail; a fine of up to $2,000
• Class B Misdemeanor — Up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $1,000
• Class C Misdemeanor — Up to 15 days in jail or a fine of up to $700
• Class D Misdemeanor — A fine of up to $500

Many misdemeanor offenders qualify for probation, community service, or expungement—and our experienced and relentless Des Peres, MO criminal defense attorneys fight to ensure you receive the most favorable outcome possible.

Why Hire Combs Waterkotte as Your Criminal Defense Lawyer in Des Peres, MO?

Not all Des Peres, MO criminal defense lawyers are created equal. Our legal team’s approach to defense is built on client focus, trial readiness, unmatched resources, and over six decades of combined expertise:

• Personal Attention, 24/7: We’re available 24/7 for our clients in Des Peres, MO. Our attorneys take the time to listen, answer your questions, and guide you through every stage of the process. You’re not just a case number—you’re our priority.
• Trial-Tested Defense: We prepare every Des Peres, MO case as though it will go before a judge, giving us leverage to secure better outcomes in negotiations. Prosecutors know which attorneys are prepared to go to trial and which aren’t.
• Strategic Resources: We bring in the right resources, whether it’s witnesses, forensic experts, or investigators, to challenge the state’s evidence and expose weaknesses in their case.
• Experience & Expertise in Des Peres. MO: With decades of combined experience across Missouri, we know the local courts, judges, and prosecutors—and we use that insight to build smart, effective defense strategies.

When your future is on the line, you deserve a criminal defense team in Des Peres, MO that is dedicated to fighting for the best possible result.

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Des Peres, MO

What should I do immediately after being arrested in Des Peres, MO?

Stay calm, remain silent, and ask for an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you. Call (314) 900-HELP or contact Combs Waterkotte immediately so we can protect your rights and start building your defense.

What’s the difference between state and federal criminal charges?

State charges are prosecuted by Missouri courts and typically involve violations of state law. Federal charges are prosecuted by U.S. attorneys for crimes that cross state lines or involve federal agencies. Federal penalties are usually much harsher.

Can I avoid jail time for a criminal charge in Des Peres, MO?

Yes. Depending on your case, our Des Peres, MO criminal defense attorneys may negotiate probation, suspended sentences, diversion programs, or treatment alternatives instead of jail time—especially for first-time offenders.

Does a criminal conviction stay on my record forever?

Not necessarily. Missouri law allows for the expungement of certain criminal convictions after a set waiting period. Our Des Peres, MO criminal defense lawyers can review your case, determine if you qualify, and guide you through the process of clearing your record for good.

What if I’ve been charged with a felony but have no prior offenses?

Having a clean record can work in your favor. Courts often view a lack of prior convictions as a mitigating factor, which can lead to reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or even dismissal. With skilled representation from a Des Peres, MO criminal defense attorney, you have a far greater chance of avoiding severe penalties.

Can Combs Waterkotte still help if I already pled guilty?

Yes. In many cases, we can file post-conviction motions, appeals, or petitions for sentence reduction. Contact us immediately—time limits apply.

Take Control of Your Future. Call Combs Waterkotte to Hire Your Des Peres, MO Criminal Defense Attorney Now.

The Des Peres, MO criminal defense attorney you choose could determine your entire future. Don’t leave that to chance. While public defenders are often overwhelmed and other attorneys might shy away from trial, we at Combs Waterkotte fight every case as if your freedom depends on it—because it does.

Our clients are never just case numbers. You’ll have direct access to your Des Peres, MO criminal defense lawyer 24/7, no matter the hour, day, or circumstance.

Don’t gamble with your future. Call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule your free case review. We’re ready to start building your defense and protecting your freedom—today.