Macon County, MO criminal defense attorney. Being accused of a crime is one of the most serious challenges you can face — but with the right legal team, it’s one you can overcome. A dedicated Combs Waterkotte Macon County, MO criminal defense attorney will fight for your rights, protect your freedom, and work relentlessly to secure the best outcome possible.
At Combs Waterkotte, we’ve built a reputation as Macon County’s premier criminal defense firm by combining aggressive advocacy with strategic legal insight. Our Macon County, 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 Macon County, MO, call (314) 900-HELP or contact us online today for a free, confidential consultation.
Legal Videos
Can Federal Charges Be Reduced Or Dismissed?
Can Federal Charges Be Reduced Or Dismissed? Chris Combs and Andrew Russek, lawyers with Combs Waterkotte, a leading federal criminal defense firm, talk about proffers, probation, and federal …
Should I Hire A Lawyer Experienced In Federal Defense?
Should I Hire A Lawyer Experienced In Federal Defense? Chris Combs and Andrew Russek from the leading federal criminal defense firm Combs Waterkotte discuss the importance of hiring a lawyer with …
What Penalties Apply To Federal Sex Crime Convictions?
What Penalties Apply To Federal Sex Crime Convictions? Andrew Russek and Chris Combs from Combs Waterkotte federal criminal defense firm discuss potential penalties related to federal sex crime …
Do Federal Sex Crimes Require Sex Offender Registration?
Do Federal Sex Crimes Require Sex Offender Registration? Andrew Russek, a lawyer with leading federal criminal defense firm Combs Waterkotte, discusses the sex offender registry and federal sex …
What Makes A Sex Crime Federal Rather Than State?
What Makes A Sex Crime Federal Rather Than State? Andrew Russek and Chris Combs of Combs Waterkotte discuss factors that play into a sex crime being classified as federal, rather than …
What Are Federal Sex Crime Charges?
What Are Federal Sex Crime Charges? Chris Combs and Andrew Russek of Combs Waterkotte discuss the most common federal sex crime charges. Interview Transcript Scott Michael Dunn: Well, let's …
Can Federal Charges Be Reduced Or Dismissed?
Can Federal Charges Be Reduced Or Dismissed? Chris Combs and Andrew Russek, lawyers with Combs Waterkotte, a leading federal criminal defense firm, talk about proffers, probation, and federal …
Should I Hire A Lawyer Experienced In Federal Defense?
Should I Hire A Lawyer Experienced In Federal Defense? Chris Combs and Andrew Russek from the leading federal criminal defense firm Combs Waterkotte discuss the importance of hiring a lawyer with …
What Penalties Apply To Federal Sex Crime Convictions?
What Penalties Apply To Federal Sex Crime Convictions? Andrew Russek and Chris Combs from Combs Waterkotte federal criminal defense firm discuss potential penalties related to federal sex crime …
Do Federal Sex Crimes Require Sex Offender Registration?
Do Federal Sex Crimes Require Sex Offender Registration? Andrew Russek, a lawyer with leading federal criminal defense firm Combs Waterkotte, discusses the sex offender registry and federal sex …
What Makes A Sex Crime Federal Rather Than State?
What Makes A Sex Crime Federal Rather Than State? Andrew Russek and Chris Combs of Combs Waterkotte discuss factors that play into a sex crime being classified as federal, rather than …
What Are Federal Sex Crime Charges?
What Are Federal Sex Crime Charges? Chris Combs and Andrew Russek of Combs Waterkotte discuss the most common federal sex crime charges. Interview Transcript Scott Michael Dunn: Well, let's …
What You’ll Learn on This Page
Facing criminal charges in Macon County, 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 Macon County, 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:
- What to do immediately after an arrest in Macon County, MO
- How state and federal prosecutions differ
- The penalties for Macon County, MO felonies and misdemeanors
- How Combs Waterkotte defends clients in complex drug, DUI, sex crime, and violent crime cases in Macon County, MO and beyond
- Why Combs Waterkotte is recognized as Macon County, MO’s leading criminal defense firm
- How our experience and strategy can help you secure the best possible outcome in Macon County, MO.
Cases Handled
Over 10,000
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Legal Experience
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Steps to Take After an Arrest in Macon County, MO
Getting arrested is a stressful and confusing experience, especially if you’ve never dealt with the criminal justice system before. But your actions in the first few hours after an arrest can shape your entire case. Here’s exactly what to do to protect your rights and avoid common mistakes that could hurt your defense:
Step 1: Stay Calm and Don’t Resist Arrest
Even if you feel the arrest is unjust, stay calm and don’t argue with the police. Resisting arrest, physically or verbally, can quickly lead to additional criminal charges in Macon County, MO. Stay respectful, keep your hands visible, and do not make any sudden moves. How you handle this moment can influence how your case unfolds later.
Step 2: Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
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: Contact a Macon County, MO Criminal Defense Lawyer Right Away
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 Macon 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
- We can begin gathering evidence immediately to strengthen your defense in Macon County, MO
- You can reach us 24 hours a day anywhere in the Macon County, MO area and beyond—day or night, weekends and holidays included.
Step 4: Don’t Talk About Your Macon County, MO Case
Don’t discuss your arrest or charges with anyone but your attorney. Conversations with friends, coworkers, or even family members can be misinterpreted, and anything shared on social media can be used against you. Prosecutors can subpoena texts, posts, and messages. To protect your defense, keep quiet and let your legal team at Combs Waterkotte handle all communications on your behalf.
Step 5: Refuse Searches Without a Warrant
Police may ask for your consent to search your car, home, or phone in the Macon County, 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: Get Out on Bail or Release Quickly
After being processed at a detention center in Macon County, 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 Macon County, MO criminal defense team at Combs Waterkotte can help:
- Request a bond reduction hearing to lower bail amounts
- Argue for your release pending trial
- Coordinate with bail bondsmen to expedite your release
- Early release allows you to continue working, caring for family, and helping with your defense
Step 7: Write Down Every Detail of the Arrest
Write down everything about your arrest while it’s still fresh in your mind—what the officers said, when and where you were detained, who witnessed it, and any searches that occurred. These details can be invaluable later in identifying procedural violations, challenging the arrest, or exposing police misconduct.
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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 partner with a Combs Waterkotte Macon County, MO criminal defense attorney, you aren’t just hiring the ideal criminal defense attorney in and around Macon County, MO – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to trustworthy criminal defense lawyers, our legal team is available 24/7 and provides experience and expertise in the following areas for Macon County, MO residents:
Your Trusted Macon County, MO Criminal Defense Team
The Macon County, 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 Macon County, 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
Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Macon 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.
The federal criminal defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte know exactly how to level the playing field. Our Macon County, 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 don’t back down—they’re trained to secure convictions and often pressure defendants into plea deals that mean years in prison and a permanent record. But that’s not how we operate. At Combs Waterkotte, we go on the offensive. We challenge the prosecution’s evidence, identify weaknesses in their investigation, and use every opportunity to get charges reduced or dismissed before any plea negotiations take place.
Discover how we defend clients in complex federal criminal cases in the Macon County, 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.
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.
Understanding Macon County Criminal Penalties and Your Rights Under Missouri Law
No matter how minor the charge, a criminal conviction in Macon County, 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.
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.
However, there is hope. Missouri law provides ways to restore your rights, including expungement, pardon, or record sealing. The Macon County, MO attorneys at Combs Waterkotte can help you explore your post-conviction options and start reclaiming your freedom.
Macon County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Macon County and Missouri.
Felony Classifications and Penalties in Macon County, 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
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 Macon County, 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 Macon County, 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 and fines 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 Macon 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 Macon 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 Macon County, MO criminal defense lawyers apart:
- Personal Attention, 24/7: We’re available 24/7 in Macon County, MO and beyond, and we take the time to understand your priorities, answer your questions, and keep you informed at every stage. You are never just another case file—you are our focus.
- Trial-Tested Defense: We prepare every Macon 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.
- Strategic Resources: Our firm works with expert witnesses, investigators, and forensic specialists to find the facts others overlook, and to expose flaws in the prosecution’s case.
- Experience & Expertise in Macon County. MO: With decades of combined courtroom experience in Macon County, MO and across Missouri, our criminal defense attorneys know the judges, prosecutors, and unique procedures in local courts—and how to use that knowledge to your advantage.
When everything is on the line, trust a Macon County, MO criminal defense team that has the experience, resources, and commitment to fight for your best possible outcome.
Criminal Defense FAQs for Macon County, MO
What should I do first if I’m arrested in Macon County, 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 charges?
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.
Is it possible to avoid jail time for a criminal charge in Macon County, MO?
Yes. Depending on your case, our Macon 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 necessarily. Missouri law allows for the expungement of certain criminal convictions after a set waiting period. Our Macon County, 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 happens if I’m charged with a felony but have no prior record?
Judges often consider lack of prior convictions as a mitigating factor. With the right representation, your Macon County, MO attorney can argue for reduced penalties, probation, or even case dismissal.
Can Combs Waterkotte help if I already entered a guilty plea?
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 Macon County, 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 Macon County, MO defense attorneys, we aren’t afraid of doing whatever it takes to prove your innocence—including going to trial.
Our commitment to client service is unmatched: you’ll have direct, 24/7 access to your Macon County, MO criminal defense attorney whenever you need guidance or support.
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 Macon County, MO.
