Criminal Defense Attorney Franklin County, MO

Criminal defense attorney in Franklin County, MO. 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 Franklin County, MO from Combs Waterkotte by your side, you can protect your rights, fight for your freedom, and move forward with confidence.

At Combs Waterkotte, our mission is clear: deliver exceptional legal defense and life-changing results. Our Franklin County, MO criminal defense attorneys represent clients in every type of case, from misdemeanors to major felonies and federal offenses. We take a personal, aggressive, and strategic approach to ensure every client gets the strongest possible defense. We know that good people sometimes find themselves in difficult situations—and we believe everyone deserves a second chance and a strong defense.

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 Franklin County, MO, call (314) 900-HELP or contact us online today for a free, confidential consultation.

Overview of This Article

If you’ve been arrested or accused of a crime in Franklin County, MO, your choice of attorney can determine your future. This page covers everything you need to know about criminal defense in Franklin County, MO and across Missouri, from felony and misdemeanor classifications to federal cases, sentencing guidelines, and how Combs Waterkotte protects your rights.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• What to do immediately after an arrest in Franklin County, MO
• The key differences between state and federal criminal charges
• The penalties for Franklin County, MO felonies and misdemeanors
• Our proven defense strategies for DUI, drug, assault, fraud, and violent crime cases
• Why Combs Waterkotte is recognized as Franklin County, MO’s leading criminal defense firm
• Whether you’re fighting for your freedom or just trying to protect your record, this guide explains how we help you navigate the system—and win.

What You Should Do Right After an Arrest in Franklin County, MO

Being arrested can be frightening and confusing—especially if it’s your first time dealing with the Franklin County, 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 Franklin County, MO:

Step 1: Stay Calm and Don’t Resist Arrest

Even if you believe the arrest is unfair, do not argue or resist. Resisting arrest in the Franklin County, 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: Stay Silent and Ask for an Attorney

The U.S. Constitution protects your right to remain silent, and it’s one of your most powerful legal tools. After confirming your identity, you are under no obligation to answer questions about the alleged offense. Politely state: “I am exercising my right to remain silent and would like to speak with my attorney.” Do not attempt to explain or defend yourself; even innocent remarks can be misinterpreted and used against you in court.

Step 3: Ask for a Franklin County, 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 Franklin County, 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 Franklin County, MO
• Our attorneys are available 24/7 for emergency calls after an arrest in Franklin County, MO—day or night.

Step 4: Avoid Discussing Your Franklin County, 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 Franklin County, MO case with your attorney and legal team.

Step 5: Never Agree to a Search 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 Franklin County, MO area.

Unlawful or warrantless searches often lead to suppressed evidence, meaning it cannot be used against you in court.

Step 6: Get Out on Bail or Release Quickly

After being booked into a Franklin County, MO detention facility, you may qualify for bail or release on your own recognizance, depending on the charges. An experienced Franklin County, MO criminal defense attorney can act quickly to:

• File for a bond reduction hearing
• Argue for pretrial release so you can stay with your family
• 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

Memory fades quickly, so jot down everything you can remember right away. Include the time, location, what the officers said or did, any witnesses present, and whether any searches were conducted. These small details often become key evidence in proving your rights were violated or the arrest was mishandled.

If you partner with a Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney in the Franklin County, MO area, you’re not just choosing a leading criminal defense attorney in and around Franklin County, MO – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with trustworthy criminal defense attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and offers experience and expertise in the following areas for Franklin County, MO residents:

A Full-Service Franklin County, MO Criminal Defense Firm

At Combs Waterkotte, our experienced Franklin County, MO criminal defense attorneys represent clients facing every type of criminal charge—from minor traffic violations and misdemeanors to the most serious felony and federal cases.

Our legal team defends clients throughout Franklin County, 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 Franklin County, 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 Franklin County, MO federal criminal defense attorneys have the skill, experience, and tenacity to take on even the toughest opponents—including the U.S. Department of Justice. We defend clients charged with a wide range of federal offenses, such as:

• 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.

To learn more about how we handle federal criminal defense cases in the Franklin County, MO area, and how federal prosecutions differ from state-level ones, explore our comprehensive guide to federal felony charges.

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Franklin County Criminal Charges and Consequences Under Missouri Law

Even a minor conviction in Franklin County, MO can have lasting consequences. A misdemeanor may result in fines, probation, or jail time, while a felony conviction can bring years in state prison and permanently restrict your rights—including your ability to vote, own firearms, or hold certain jobs.

Under Missouri law, convicted felons are prohibited from owning guns, serving on juries, or holding public office. They are also often required to disclose their criminal history on employment and housing applications, making it much harder to move forward after a conviction.

But there are opportunities for a fresh start. Missouri law allows individuals to restore their rights through expungement, pardons, or record sealing. The Franklin County, MO criminal defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte can help you explore every available legal avenue to rebuild your life and reclaim your future.

Felony Classifications and Penalties in Franklin County, MO

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

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

Aggravating factors (weapons, repeat offenses, or hate-related motives) can elevate a felony’s class—increasing penalties. However, a skilled Franklin County, MO criminal defense lawyer can often negotiate charge reductions, diversion programs, or case dismissals.

Misdemeanor Offenses and Penalties in Franklin County, MO

In Missouri, misdemeanor charges are divided into four distinct classes, each carrying its own range of possible penalties:

• Class A Misdemeanor — Up to 1 year in jail and/or fines 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 — Fines up to $500

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

Why Hire Combs Waterkotte as Your Criminal Defense Lawyer in Franklin County, MO?

Choosing the right defense attorney can be the most important decision you ever make. At Combs Waterkotte, we’ve built our reputation on delivering results through preparation, communication, and relentless advocacy. Here’s what sets our Franklin County, MO criminal defense lawyers apart:

• Client-Centered Representation: We’re always available when you need us in Franklin County, MO—day or night. Our team takes time to understand your concerns, explain your options, and guide you every step of the way. You’ll never feel left in the dark about your case.
• Trial-Ready Defense: We prepare every Franklin County, 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.
• Unmatched 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.
• Local Knowledge & Experience in Franklin County. 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 at stake, you deserve a Franklin County, MO defense team that’s experienced, aggressive, and completely committed to protecting your freedom.

Common Questions About Criminal Defense in Franklin County, MO

What should I do first if I’m arrested in Franklin County, MO?

Stay calm and avoid confrontation. Do not answer any questions or make statements without legal representation. Politely invoke your right to remain silent and contact an attorney immediately. Call (314) 900-HELP or reach out to Combs Waterkotte right away so our defense team can step in to protect your rights and begin preparing your case.

How are state and federal criminal charges different?

State charges are handled by Missouri courts and usually involve violations of state laws. Federal charges, on the other hand, are prosecuted by U.S. attorneys and often involve interstate activity or federal agencies. Federal cases carry stricter sentencing guidelines and typically require more extensive defense strategies.

Can I avoid jail time for a criminal charge in Franklin County, MO?

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

Will a conviction stay on my record permanently?

Not always. Missouri allows for expungement of certain crimes after a waiting period. Our Franklin County, MO criminal defense attorneys can determine if you qualify for expungement and help clear your record.

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

Judges often treat first-time offenders more leniently. A clean record can be a powerful mitigating factor that may result in probation, reduced penalties, or dismissal of charges altogether. The right Franklin County, MO attorney can make sure your clean history works in your favor.

Can Combs Waterkotte help if I already entered a guilty plea?

Yes. Our attorneys regularly handle post-conviction relief cases, including appeals, motions for sentence reduction, and other remedies. Contact us right away—strict time limits may apply to your case, so acting quickly is essential.

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

Choosing the right attorney can mean the difference between walking free and facing years behind bars. Your future is too important to trust to an overworked public defender or an inexperienced lawyer. At Combs Waterkotte, we approach every case with the skill, strategy, and determination it takes to win—whether that means negotiating a favorable outcome or taking your case to trial.

Our firm places total client satisfaction at the heart of everything we do. When you choose Combs Waterkotte, you can be confident that you will receive 24/7 access to the Franklin County, MO criminal defense lawyer working on your case. No matter where you are, what time it is, or your present circumstances, you can talk to us about your case, the legal process, or anything else.

Don’t roll the dice. Make Combs Waterkotte your first call. Give us a call today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a case review and we can get started on your defense in Franklin County, MO.