Criminal Defense Attorney Independence, MO

Criminal defense attorney in Independence, MO. An arrest or criminal accusation can turn your world upside down — but it doesn’t have to define your future. With an experienced Combs Waterkotte Independence, MO criminal defense attorney on your side, you’ll have an experienced advocate protecting your rights, your reputation, and your freedom every step of the way.

At Combs Waterkotte, our mission is clear: deliver exceptional legal defense and life-changing results. Our Independence, 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 more than 60 years of combined experience and over 10,000 criminal cases successfully handled, our track record of success speaks for itself. If you’re facing charges in Independence, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation with a trusted criminal defense attorney.

What You’ll Learn on This Page

If you’ve been arrested or accused of a crime in Independence, MO, your choice of attorney can determine your future. This page covers everything you need to know about criminal defense in Independence, 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:

• The critical first steps to take after an arrest in Independence, MO
• How state and federal prosecutions differ
• Penalties and sentencing for misdemeanors and felonies in Independence, MO
• Our proven defense strategies for DUI, drug, assault, fraud, and violent crime cases
• Why Combs Waterkotte is one of Missouri’s top-rated criminal defense firms
• How our experience and strategy can help you secure the best possible outcome in Independence, MO.

Steps to Take After an Arrest in Independence, MO

Being arrested in Independence, MO can be an overwhelming and intimidating experience. Whether it’s your first encounter with the criminal justice system or not, what you do in the moments immediately following your arrest can greatly influence the outcome of your case. Follow these critical steps to protect your rights and strengthen your defense from the very beginning:

Step 1: Keep Calm and Avoid Resistance

Even if you believe the arrest is unfair, do not argue or resist. Resisting arrest in the Independence, 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: Exercise 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 Independence, 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 Independence, MO criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte involved early means:

• Law enforcement and investigators must go through your lawyer for all communication
• We make sure your constitutional rights are respected from the beginning
• Our team can start gathering and preserving key evidence immediately in Independence, MO
• You can reach us 24 hours a day anywhere in the Independence, MO area and beyond—day or night, weekends and holidays included.

Step 4: Avoid Discussing Your Independence, MO Case with Anyone

Silence is protection. Avoid talking about your arrest with anyone, even people you trust, and stay off social media. Texts, DMs, and posts can be taken out of context and used against you. Only discuss your situation with your attorney or legal team at Combs Waterkotte, where your information stays completely confidential.

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

Police may ask for your consent to search your car, home, or phone in the Independence, MO area. You have the right to refuse consent unless they present a valid warrant. Politely say, “I do not consent to any searches.”

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: Secure Bail or Release

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

• File motions to lower your bond amount
• Argue for pretrial release so you can stay with your family
• Work with bail bondsmen to secure your freedom quickly
• Help you return to work, care for family, and assist in building 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.

When you choose a Combs Waterkotte Independence, MO criminal defense attorney, you’re not just hiring a top-rated criminal defense attorney in Independence, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with knowledgeable criminal defense lawyers, our staff is available 24/7 and provides experience and expertise in the following areas for Independence, MO residents:

A Full-Service Independence, MO Criminal Defense Firm

At Combs Waterkotte, our experienced Independence, 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 Independence, MO practice areas include:

• 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

Independence, MO Federal Crime Lawyer You Can Trust

Facing criminal charges at the federal level is a far different, and far more intimidating, experience than state prosecution. Federal prosecutors are backed by immense resources, extensive investigations, and a conviction rate exceeding 90%, according to Pew Research.

The federal criminal defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte know exactly how to level the playing field. Our Independence, 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

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.

Discover how we defend clients in complex federal criminal cases in the Independence, MO area, the critical ways these prosecutions differ from state charges, and what strategies we use to protect your rights under federal law. Learn more in our detailed guide to federal felony charges.

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How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Protect Your Rights and Future

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Independence Criminal Charges and Consequences Under Missouri Law

Even a seemingly minor conviction in Independence, MO can have serious and lasting consequences. A misdemeanor might bring fines, probation, or time in county jail, while a felony conviction can result in years in state prison and the permanent loss of certain civil rights. This can include your ability to vote, own firearms, or pursue specific careers.

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 Independence, MO criminal defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte can help you explore every available legal avenue to rebuild your life and reclaim your future.

Felony Levels and Possible Penalties in Independence, MO

Missouri divides felonies into five classes based on the seriousness of the crime. Each class carries a different potential prison sentence:

• 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 — 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

Certain aggravating factors, such as using a weapon, prior convictions, or crimes involving hate-based motives, can raise a charge to a higher class, resulting in harsher penalties. However, an experienced Independence, MO criminal defense attorney may be able to negotiate a reduction in charges, secure a diversion program, or even achieve a full dismissal depending on the circumstances of your case.

Misdemeanor Offenses and Penalties in Independence, MO

Misdemeanors are categorized into four classes in Missouri:

• 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/or a fine of up to $1,000
• Class C Misdemeanor — Up to 15 days in jail and fines 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 Independence, MO criminal defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte fight to protect your record and help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Why Combs Waterkotte Is the Right Criminal Defense Firm for You in Independence, MO

Not all Independence, 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 always available when you need us in Independence, 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-Tested Defense: We prepare every Independence, 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 Independence. 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 Independence, MO that is dedicated to fighting for the best possible result.

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Independence, MO

I was just arrested in Independence, MO. What should I do?

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 usually involve violations of Missouri laws and are handled by local prosecutors. Federal charges involve the U.S. government and typically include more serious crimes, like large-scale drug trafficking or fraud. Federal cases carry harsher penalties and require an attorney with specific federal court experience, like the team at Combs Waterkotte.

Can I stay out of jail if I’m charged with a crime in Independence, MO?

Yes. Depending on your case, our Independence, 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 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 Independence, 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 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 Independence, 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.

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

Choosing the right lawyer can make the difference between your case being ended favorably and you spending time behind bars. Don’t risk your freedom or your future with an inexperienced attorney or a public defender overloaded with cases. Unlike other criminal Independence, MO defense attorneys, we aren’t afraid of doing whatever it takes to prove your innocence—including going to trial.

Our clients are never just case numbers. You’ll have direct access to your Independence, 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.