O’Fallon, 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 O’Fallon, 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, we’ve built a reputation as O’Fallon’s premier criminal defense firm by combining aggressive advocacy with strategic legal insight. Our O’Fallon, 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.
Our legal team has over 60 years of combined criminal defense experience and has handled over 10,000 cases just like yours. Our record of success speaks for itself, reflecting our unwavering commitment to results and respect. If you’re facing a criminal charge in the O’Fallon, MO area, call us right away at (314) 900-HELP, or contact us online, for a free, confidential consultation.
Legal Videos
Are Private Attorneys Better Than Public Defenders?
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 …
What Is the Process For Getting Bail in Missouri?
What Is the Process For Getting Bail in Missouri? If you've been arrested, the first thing you want to do is get out of jail and get back home. Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs …
Everything You Need to Know About Juvenile Criminal Defense Cases in Missouri
Everything You Need to Know About Juvenile Criminal Defense Cases in Missouri. Attorneys Christopher Combs and Matthew Brown from Combs Waterkotte answer the most commonly asked questions about …
How Does Plea Bargaining Work?
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 …
Public Defender Caseloads Are High. Can I Trust One With My Case?
St. Louis defense attorney Chris Combs explains how a private defense lawyer can offer the resources and attention to detail that many public defenders don't have time for. You can read a …
Are Private Attorneys Better Than Public Defenders?
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 …
What Is the Process For Getting Bail in Missouri?
What Is the Process For Getting Bail in Missouri? If you've been arrested, the first thing you want to do is get out of jail and get back home. Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs …
Everything You Need to Know About Juvenile Criminal Defense Cases in Missouri
Everything You Need to Know About Juvenile Criminal Defense Cases in Missouri. Attorneys Christopher Combs and Matthew Brown from Combs Waterkotte answer the most commonly asked questions about …
How Does Plea Bargaining Work?
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 …
Public Defender Caseloads Are High. Can I Trust One With My Case?
St. Louis defense attorney Chris Combs explains how a private defense lawyer can offer the resources and attention to detail that many public defenders don't have time for. You can read a …
What You’ll Learn on This Page
If you’ve been arrested or accused of a crime in O’Fallon, MO, your choice of attorney can determine your future. This page covers everything you need to know about criminal defense in O’Fallon, MO and across Missouri, from felony and misdemeanor classifications to federal cases, sentencing guidelines, and how Combs Waterkotte protects your rights.
Inside this guide, you’ll discover:
- What to do right after being arrested in O’Fallon, MO
- How state and federal prosecutions differ
- The penalties for O’Fallon, MO felonies and misdemeanors
- 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
- 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.
Cases Handled
Over 10,000
Jail Days Saved
Over 1 Million
Google Reviews
400+ Perfect
Legal Experience
Over 60 Years
What to Do After You’re Arrested in O’Fallon, MO
Being arrested in O’Fallon, 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 O’Fallon, 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: Stay Silent and Ask for an Attorney
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: Ask for a O’Fallon, 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 O’Fallon, 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
- We can begin gathering evidence immediately to strengthen your defense in O’Fallon, MO
- We’re available 24/7 to respond to emergencies anywhere in O’Fallon, MO.
Step 4: Avoid Discussing Your O’Fallon, MO Case with Anyone
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 to look through your phone, your car, or even your home—but unless they show a legitimate warrant, you can and should say no. Politely respond, “I don’t consent to any searches.” You have every right to protect your privacy and property from unlawful investigation in the O’Fallon, MO area.
Unlawful or warrantless searches often lead to suppressed evidence, meaning it cannot be used against you in court.
Step 6: Secure Bail or Release
After booking, you’ll be taken to a detention facility near O’Fallon, MO. Depending on your charges, you may be eligible for bond or release on recognizance. Our O’Fallon, MO criminal defense attorneys can:
- File motions to lower your bond amount
- Advocate for release pending trial
- Work directly with bail bondsmen to secure your release fast
- Early release allows you to continue working, caring for family, and helping with your defense
Step 7: Write Down Every Detail of the Arrest
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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Contact the experienced Combs Waterkotte felony lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP to get started on your defense.
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If you partner with a Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney in or around O’Fallon, MO, you’re not just selecting a leading criminal defense attorney in O’Fallon, MO and beyond – you are safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with knowledgeable criminal defense lawyers, our team is available 24/7 and offers experience and expertise in the following areas for O’Fallon, MO residents:
A Comprehensive O’Fallon, MO Criminal Defense Firm
The O’Fallon, 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 O’Fallon, 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
O’Fallon, MO Federal Crime Lawyer You Can Trust
Federal charges are among the most serious a person can face. Unlike state prosecutions, federal cases involve powerful government agencies, lengthy investigations, and prosecutors who win more than 90% of their cases, according to Pew Research.
At Combs Waterkotte, our O’Fallon, 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 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 O’Fallon, 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.
O’Fallon Criminal Convictions and Their Impact in Missouri
Even a minor conviction in O’Fallon, 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.
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.
But there are opportunities for a fresh start. Missouri law allows individuals to restore their rights through expungement, pardons, or record sealing. The O’Fallon, MO criminal defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte can help you explore every available legal avenue to rebuild your life and reclaim your future.
St. Charles County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in St. Charles County and Missouri.
Felony Classifications and Penalties in O’Fallon, MO
Felonies in Missouri are classified by severity, each carrying its own range of punishments:
- Class A Felony — 10 to 30 years in state prison, or life imprisonment
- 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
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 O’Fallon, 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 Classifications and Penalties in O’Fallon, MO
Misdemeanors are categorized into four classes in Missouri:
- Class A Misdemeanor — Up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000
- Class B Misdemeanor — Up to 6 months in jail; a fine of up to $1,000
- Class C Misdemeanor — Up to 15 days in jail or 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 O’Fallon, 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 O’Fallon, 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 O’Fallon, MO criminal defense lawyers apart:
- Client-Focused Representation: We’re always available when you need us in O’Fallon, 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-Ready Defense: We prepare every O’Fallon, 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.
- Extensive 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.
- Local Knowledge & Experience in O’Fallon. 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 O’Fallon, MO defense team that’s experienced, aggressive, and completely committed to protecting your freedom.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in O’Fallon, MO
What should I do first if I’m arrested in O’Fallon, 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 criminal 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.
Can I avoid jail time for a criminal charge in O’Fallon, MO?
Yes. Depending on the circumstances, our experienced O’Fallon, 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 O’Fallon, MO criminal defense attorneys can determine if you qualify for expungement and help clear your record.
What if this is my first felony charge?
Judges often treat first-time offenders more leniently. A clean record can be a powerful mitigating factor that may result in probation, reduced penalties, or dismissal of charges altogether. The right O’Fallon, MO attorney can make sure your clean history works in your favor.
Can Combs Waterkotte help if I already entered a guilty plea?
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 O’Fallon, 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 clients are never just case numbers. You’ll have direct access to your O’Fallon, MO criminal defense lawyer 24/7, no matter the hour, day, or circumstance.
Don’t gamble with your future. Call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule your free case review. We’re ready to start building your defense and protecting your freedom—today.
