Criminal Defense Attorney Macon County, MO

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, our mission is clear: deliver exceptional legal defense and life-changing results. Our Macon 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 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 Macon County, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation with a trusted criminal defense attorney.

Article Summary

If you’ve been charged with a crime in Macon County, 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 right after being arrested in Macon County, MO
• The key differences between state and federal criminal charges
• The penalties for Missouri 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
• 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 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 believe the arrest is unfair, do not argue or resist. Resisting arrest in the Macon 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: Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

You have the constitutional right to remain silent. After providing basic identifying information (name, date of birth, address), you are not required to answer any questions about the alleged crime. Politely say: “I am invoking my right to remain silent. I would like to speak with my attorney.” Do not try to explain, justify, or talk your way out of the arrest, those statements can and will be used by prosecutors later.

Step 3: Ask for a Macon County, MO Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately

Don’t say a word or sign any papers until you’ve spoken with a lawyer. This is your right—use it. Calling a Macon County, MO criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte right after your arrest gives you the strongest start possible because:

• Police and prosecutors are required to communicate through your attorney
• We make sure your constitutional rights are respected from the beginning
• 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: Avoid Discussing Your Macon 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 Macon County, MO case with your attorney and legal team.

Step 5: Never Agree to a Search 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.”

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

Step 6: Work to Secure Bail or Release

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

• File for a bond reduction hearing
• 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.

When you choose a Combs Waterkotte Macon County, MO criminal defense attorney, you aren’t just choosing the ideal criminal defense attorney in Macon County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to trustworthy criminal defense lawyers, our staff is available 24/7 and provides experience and expertise in the following areas for Macon County, MO residents:

A Full-Service Macon County, MO Criminal Defense Firm

The dedicated Macon County, MO criminal defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte are equipped to handle any criminal matter—whether you’re dealing with a simple ticket, a misdemeanor offense, or a high-stakes felony or federal charge.

Our legal team defends clients throughout Macon 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

Macon County, 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.

At Combs Waterkotte, our Macon County, 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

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.

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Macon County Criminal Charges and Consequences 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.

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 Macon County, MO defense lawyers work tirelessly to help clients clear their records and move forward with confidence and dignity.

Felony Classifications and Penalties in Macon County, MO

In Missouri, felony charges are categorized by severity, with each class carrying its own sentencing range and potential consequences:

• Class A Felony — 10 to 30 years, or life in prison
• Class B Felony — 5 to 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 — 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 Macon County, 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 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 — A fine of up to $500

The good news? Many misdemeanor offenders are eligible for alternatives to jail — such as probation, diversion programs, or record expungement. The dedicated Macon County, MO defense team at Combs Waterkotte will fight to keep your record clean and your life on track.

Why Choose Combs Waterkotte as Your Criminal Defense Attorney in Macon County, MO?

When your freedom and reputation are at stake, experience and strategy make all the difference. At Combs Waterkotte, our defense philosophy is built on preparation, client trust, and a proven record of results. With over six decades of combined experience, our team offers unmatched dedication and insight into the Macon County, MO court system:

• 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-Ready Defense: We prepare every case like it’s going to court. That mindset not only strengthens your defense but gives us a clear advantage during plea negotiations and trial proceedings.
• Extensive 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.
• Proven Local Experience 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.

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Macon County, MO

What should I do immediately after being arrested in Macon County, MO?

The most important thing is to stay calm and say nothing until you speak with a lawyer. Anything you say could be used against you. Call (314) 900-HELP or contact Combs Waterkotte immediately—our team can guide you through what to expect, handle communications with law enforcement, and start building your defense from day one.

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.

Is it possible to avoid jail time for a criminal charge in Macon County, MO?

Yes. Depending on the circumstances, our experienced Macon County, 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.

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 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 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 Macon County, 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 Macon County, MO Criminal Defense Attorney Now.

The Macon County, 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 Macon County, MO criminal defense lawyer 24/7, no matter the hour, day, or circumstance.

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.