Criminal defense attorney in Overland, MO. 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 Overland, 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 believe every client deserves a powerful defense and a fair chance to rebuild their life. Our Overland, MO criminal defense lawyers handle everything from misdemeanors and felonies to complex federal cases. We take a proactive, strategic approach—building your case with precision, compassion, and determination.
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 Overland, MO, call (314) 900-HELP or contact us online today 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 …
Overview of This Article
Facing criminal charges in Overland, 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 Overland, MO and throughout Missouri, including felony and misdemeanor laws, federal prosecution, sentencing, and how the team at Combs Waterkotte fights to protect your future.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- The critical first steps to take after an arrest in Overland, 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 Overland, MO and beyond
- Why Combs Waterkotte is recognized as Overland, MO’s leading criminal defense firm
- How our experience and strategy can help you secure the best possible outcome in Overland, MO.
Cases Handled
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What You Should Do Right After an Arrest in Overland, MO
Being arrested can be frightening and confusing—especially if it’s your first time dealing with the Overland, 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 Overland, 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 Overland, 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
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 Overland, 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 Overland, MO criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte on your side from the very beginning, you can be confident that:
- Police and investigators must communicate through your attorney
- We can ensure your rights are protected from the start
- Our team can start gathering and preserving key evidence immediately in Overland, MO
- We’re available 24/7 to respond to emergencies anywhere in Overland, MO.
Step 4: Don’t Talk About Your Overland, MO Case
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
If law enforcement asks to search your Overland, 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: Work to Secure Bail or Release
After being processed at a detention center in Overland, 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 Overland, MO criminal defense team at Combs Waterkotte can help:
- Request a bond reduction hearing to lower bail amounts
- Advocate for release pending trial
- 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: 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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If you hire a Combs Waterkotte Overland, MO criminal defense attorney, you’re not just selecting a top-rated criminal defense attorney in Overland, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to trustworthy criminal defense lawyers, our team is available 24/7 and provides experience and expertise in the following areas for residents in Overland and beyond:
A Full-Service Overland, MO Criminal Defense Firm
At Combs Waterkotte, our experienced Overland, 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 Overland, 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
Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Overland, MO
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 Overland, 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 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.
To learn more about how we handle federal criminal defense cases in the Overland, MO area, and how federal prosecutions differ from state-level ones, explore our comprehensive 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 Overland Criminal Penalties and Your Rights Under Missouri Law
Even a seemingly minor conviction in Overland, 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.
However, there is hope. Missouri law provides ways to restore your rights, including expungement, pardon, or record sealing. The Overland, MO attorneys at Combs Waterkotte can help you explore your post-conviction options and start reclaiming your freedom.
St. Louis County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in St. Louis County and Missouri.
Felony Offense Levels and Sentencing in Overland, 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 — 10 to 30 years, 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
Aggravating factors (weapons, repeat offenses, or hate-related motives) can elevate a felony’s class—increasing penalties. However, a skilled Overland, MO criminal defense lawyer can often negotiate charge reductions, diversion programs, or case dismissals.
Misdemeanor Offenses and Penalties in Overland, 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 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 Overland, MO criminal defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte fight to protect your record and help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Why Hire Combs Waterkotte as Your Criminal Defense Lawyer in Overland, 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 Overland, MO criminal defense lawyers apart:
- Client-Focused Representation: We’re available 24/7 in Overland, 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 Overland, 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.
- Unmatched 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.
- Proven Local Experience in Overland. MO: With decades of combined courtroom experience in Overland, 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 Overland, MO criminal defense team that has the experience, resources, and commitment to fight for your best possible outcome.
Common Questions About Criminal Defense in Overland, MO
What should I do first if I’m arrested in Overland, 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 handled by Missouri courts and usually involve violations of state laws. Federal charges, on the other hand, are prosecuted by U.S. attorneys and often involve interstate activity or federal agencies. Federal cases carry stricter sentencing guidelines and typically require more extensive defense strategies.
Is it possible to avoid jail time for a criminal charge in Overland, MO?
Often, yes. Every case is different, but our Overland, MO defense lawyers frequently secure outcomes like probation, community service, or diversion programs that keep clients out of jail, especially those with clean records or low-level charges.
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 Overland, 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?
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 Overland, MO attorney can make sure your clean history works in your favor.
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 Charge of Your Future — Call Combs Waterkotte, Your Trusted Overland, MO Criminal Defense Lawyers Right Away
The Overland, 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 Overland, 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.
