Marion County, MO criminal defense attorney. 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 Marion County, 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 Marion 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 Marion 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.
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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.
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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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Overview of This Article
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Marion 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.
Read on to learn:
- What to do immediately after an arrest in Marion County, MO
- How state and federal prosecutions differ
- Penalties and sentencing for misdemeanors and felonies in Marion County, MO
- Our proven defense strategies for DUI, drug, assault, fraud, and violent crime cases
- Why thousands across Missouri trust our firm when their future is on the line
- How we help you take control of your Marion County, MO case, and your future, from day one.
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What You Should Do Right After an Arrest in Marion County, MO
Being arrested can be frightening and confusing—especially if it’s your first time dealing with the Marion 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 Marion County, MO:
Step 1: Keep Calm and Avoid Resistance
Even if you believe the arrest is unfair, do not argue or resist. Resisting arrest in the Marion 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: Invoke 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: Get a Marion County, MO Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately
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 Marion County, MO criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte on your side from the very beginning, you can be confident that:
- Police and prosecutors are required to communicate through your attorney
- Your legal rights will be protected at every stage of the process
- Our team can start gathering and preserving key evidence immediately in Marion County, MO
- We’re available 24/7 to respond to emergencies anywhere in Marion County, MO.
Step 4: Keep Details of Your Marion County, MO Case Private
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: Refuse Searches Without a Warrant
If law enforcement asks to search your Marion County, 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 Marion 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 Marion County, MO criminal defense team at Combs Waterkotte can help:
- Request a bond reduction hearing to lower bail amounts
- Argue for pretrial release so you can stay with your family
- Work with bail bondsmen to secure your freedom quickly
- Early release allows you to continue working, caring for family, and helping with your defense
Step 7: Record Every Detail You Can Remember
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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Contact the experienced Combs Waterkotte felony lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP to get started on your defense.
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If you choose a Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney in or around Marion County, MO, you aren’t just choosing the ideal criminal defense attorney in and around Marion County, MO – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with trustworthy criminal defense lawyers, our team is available 24/7 and offers experience and expertise in the following areas for Marion County, MO residents:
A Comprehensive Marion County, MO Criminal Defense Firm
At Combs Waterkotte, our experienced Marion 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 Marion 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
Marion County, 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.
At Combs Waterkotte, our Marion 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
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.
To learn more about how we handle federal criminal defense cases in the Marion County, MO area, and how federal prosecutions differ from state-level ones, explore our comprehensive guide to federal felony charges.
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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 Marion County Criminal Penalties and Your Rights Under Missouri Law
Even a seemingly minor conviction in Marion County, 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.
Convicted felons are barredConvicted felons in Missouri are barred from owning weapons, running for public office, or serving on juries. They must often disclose their criminal status on job or housing applications, which can make rebuilding their lives extremely difficult.
However, there is hope. Missouri law provides ways to restore your rights, including expungement, pardon, or record sealing. The Marion County, MO attorneys at Combs Waterkotte can help you explore your post-conviction options and start reclaiming your freedom.
Marion County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Marion County and Missouri.
Felony Offense Levels and Sentencing in Marion 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 — between 3 and 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 Marion 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 Marion 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; a fine of 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; a fine of up to $700
- Class D Misdemeanor — Fines 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 Marion County, 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 Marion 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 Marion County, MO criminal defense lawyers apart:
- Personal Attention, 24/7: We’re always available when you need us in Marion 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.
- Aggressive, Trial-Ready Defense: Every case is prepared as if it’s going to trial. That level of readiness gives us the leverage to negotiate from a position of strength and the confidence to go the distance when necessary.
- Extensive Resources: We utilize expert witnesses, forensic specialists, and private investigators to uncover critical details that can make or break your case.
- Proven Local Experience in Marion County. MO: With decades of combined courtroom experience in Marion 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 Marion County, MO criminal defense team that has the experience, resources, and commitment to fight for your best possible outcome.
Criminal Defense FAQs for Marion County, MO
What should I do first if I’m arrested in Marion 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.
What’s the difference between state and federal charges?
State charges are prosecuted by Missouri courts and typically involve violations of state law. Federal charges are prosecuted by U.S. attorneys for crimes that cross state lines or involve federal agencies. Federal penalties are usually much harsher.
Is it possible to avoid jail time for a criminal charge in Marion County, MO?
Yes. Depending on the circumstances, our experienced Marion 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.
Will a conviction stay on my record permanently?
Not always. Missouri allows for expungement of certain crimes after a waiting period. Our Marion County, MO criminal defense attorneys can determine if you qualify for expungement and help clear your record.
What happens if I’m charged with a felony but have no prior record?
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 Marion County, MO criminal defense attorney, you have a far greater chance of avoiding severe penalties.
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 Marion 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 Marion 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 Marion County, MO.
