Criminal defense attorney in Harrisonville, 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 Harrisonville, 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 Harrisonville’s premier criminal defense firm by combining aggressive advocacy with strategic legal insight. Our Harrisonville, 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 Harrisonville, MO, call (314) 900-HELP or contact us online today for a free, confidential consultation.
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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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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 …
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Article Summary
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Harrisonville, MO, the information here could make a real difference in your case. This page outlines what every defendant needs to know about Missouri criminal law — from your first moments after arrest to how our attorneys at Combs Waterkotte fight to protect your freedom and reputation.
Inside this guide, you’ll discover:
- What to do immediately after an arrest in Harrisonville, MO
- How state and federal criminal processes differ—and what that means for you
- Penalties and sentencing for misdemeanors and felonies in Harrisonville, MO
- Our proven defense strategies for DUI, drug, assault, fraud, and violent crime cases
- Why Combs Waterkotte is recognized as Harrisonville, 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.
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What You Should Do Right After an Arrest in Harrisonville, MO
Being arrested can be frightening and confusing—especially if it’s your first time dealing with the Harrisonville, 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 Harrisonville, 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 Harrisonville, 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: Contact a Harrisonville, MO Criminal Defense Lawyer Right Away
Before you answer any questions or sign anything, make it clear that you want to speak with your attorney. This is your constitutional right, and invoking it is one of the most important decisions you can make. When you have an experienced Harrisonville, MO criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte on your side from the very beginning, you can be confident that:
- 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 Harrisonville, MO
- We’re available 24/7 to respond to emergencies anywhere in Harrisonville, MO.
Step 4: Don’t Talk About Your Harrisonville, MO Case
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 Harrisonville, MO case with your attorney and legal team.
Step 5: Refuse Searches Without a Warrant
If law enforcement asks to search your Harrisonville, MO home, vehicle, or phone, you are under no obligation to agree. Unless officers present a valid warrant signed by a judge, you have the legal right to refuse. Calmly state, “I do not consent to a search.” Exercising this right protects you from unlawful or overreaching police actions.
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 processed at a detention center in Harrisonville, MO, your next goal is getting home as soon as possible. Depending on your charges, you might qualify for bail or release on recognizance. The Harrisonville, MO criminal defense team at Combs Waterkotte can help:
- File motions to lower your bond amount
- Argue for your release pending trial
- Coordinate with bail bondsmen to expedite your release
- Help you return to work, care for family, and assist in building your defense
Step 7: Record Every Detail You Can 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.
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A felony can have long-term consequences. Act quickly and carefully to protect your future and your livelihood.
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Wondering what happens after your felony arrest? The skilled Combs Waterkotte attorneys have the answers.
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Contact the experienced Combs Waterkotte felony lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP to get started on your defense.
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When you hire a Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney in or around Harrisonville, MO, you’re not just selecting a top-rated criminal defense attorney in Harrisonville, MO and beyond – you’re safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys, our staff is available 24/7 and offers experience and expertise in the following areas for residents in Harrisonville and beyond:
A Full-Service Harrisonville, MO Criminal Defense Firm
The Harrisonville, 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 Harrisonville, 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
Harrisonville, MO Federal Criminal Defense Attorney
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.
The federal criminal defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte know exactly how to level the playing field. Our Harrisonville, MO defense team has extensive experience handling high-profile and complex cases, going toe-to-toe with the Department of Justice to protect our clients’ freedom. We represent individuals accused of a wide variety of federal crimes, 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
Federal prosecutors are relentless—their goal is conviction, not compromise. They routinely pressure defendants into plea agreements that carry harsh prison terms and permanent criminal records. At Combs Waterkotte, we take a different approach. Our attorneys meticulously scrutinize every detail of the case, challenge the government’s evidence, uncover procedural violations, and fight to have charges reduced or dismissed long before a plea becomes necessary.
Learn more about how we handle Harrisonville, MO federal criminal cases, what makes them unique, and how they are different from state cases.
Free book
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Protect Your Rights and Future
Combs Waterkotte has over 60 years of experience and over 10,000 cases handled. This ebook helps guide you through the criminal defense process and how an experienced, skilled defense attorney can keep your freedoms intact.
Harrisonville Criminal Convictions and Their Impact in Missouri
Even a minor conviction in Harrisonville, 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.
Fortunately, there are ways to rebuild. Missouri provides several options for restoring your rights, including record expungement, pardons, and sealing past convictions. At Combs Waterkotte, our Harrisonville, MO defense lawyers work tirelessly to help clients clear their records and move forward with confidence and dignity.
Cass County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Cass County and Missouri.
Felony Offense Levels and Sentencing in Harrisonville, MO
Felonies in Missouri are classified by severity, each carrying its own range of punishments:
- Class A Felony — minimum of 10 years and no more than 30 years in prison, 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 — no more than 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 Harrisonville, MO criminal defense lawyer can often negotiate charge reductions, diversion programs, or case dismissals.
Misdemeanor Classifications and Penalties in Harrisonville, 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; a fine of up to $700
- Class D Misdemeanor — A fine of up to $500
Although misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, they still carry long-term consequences if not handled properly. Fortunately, many misdemeanor cases can be resolved through probation, community service, or even expungement. The experienced Harrisonville, MO criminal defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte fight to protect your record and help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Why Hire Combs Waterkotte as Your Criminal Defense Lawyer in Harrisonville, 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 Harrisonville, MO criminal defense lawyers apart:
- Client-Centered Representation: We’re available 24/7 for our clients in Harrisonville, 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 Harrisonville, 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.
- Local Knowledge & Experience in Harrisonville. 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 Harrisonville, MO defense team that’s experienced, aggressive, and completely committed to protecting your freedom.
Criminal Defense FAQs for Harrisonville, MO
I was just arrested in Harrisonville, MO. What should I do?
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 charges?
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 stay out of jail if I’m charged with a crime in Harrisonville, MO?
Yes. Depending on the circumstances, our experienced Harrisonville, MO criminal defense attorneys may be able to negotiate alternatives such as probation, deferred sentencing, diversion programs, or rehabilitation options, particularly for first-time or non-violent offenses.
Will a criminal conviction stay on my record forever?
Not always. Missouri gives many people a second chance through the expungement process. Depending on your case, you may be eligible to have your record sealed or cleared after a waiting period. Our Harrisonville, MO criminal defense attorneys can help you find out if you qualify and take steps to restore your reputation.
What if this is my first felony charge?
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 Harrisonville, MO criminal defense attorney, you have a far greater chance of avoiding severe penalties.
Can Combs Waterkotte still help if I already pled guilty?
Absolutely. Our defense team can explore post-conviction relief, including filing appeals or motions for sentence reduction. Don’t wait. Contact us immediately to review your options. Deadlines for these actions are strict and time-sensitive.
Protect Your Rights and Your Future — Call Combs Waterkotte, Harrisonville, MO’s Premier Criminal Defense Firm 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 clients are never just case numbers. You’ll have direct access to your Harrisonville, MO criminal defense lawyer 24/7, no matter the hour, day, or circumstance.
Don’t take chances with your freedom. Make Combs Waterkotte your first call. Contact us today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a no-obligation case evaluation. The sooner we start, the stronger your defense will be.
