Criminal Defense Attorney Putnam County, MO

Putnam 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 Putnam 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 Putnam County’s premier criminal defense firm by combining aggressive advocacy with strategic legal insight. Our Putnam 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 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 Putnam 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.

Overview of This Article

If you’ve been arrested or accused of a crime in Putnam County, MO, your choice of attorney can determine your future. This page covers everything you need to know about criminal defense in Putnam County, 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:

• The critical first steps to take after an arrest in Putnam County, MO
• How state and federal prosecutions differ
• The penalties for Missouri felonies and misdemeanors
• How Combs Waterkotte defends clients in complex drug, DUI, sex crime, and violent crime cases in Putnam County, MO and beyond
• Why thousands across Missouri trust our firm when their future is on the line
• 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 to Do After You’re Arrested in Putnam County, MO

Being arrested in Putnam County, 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: 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 Putnam 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: 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: Get a Putnam County, MO Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately

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 Putnam County, MO criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte involved early means:

• Police and investigators must 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 Putnam County, MO
• You can reach us 24 hours a day anywhere in the Putnam County, MO area and beyond—day or night, weekends and holidays included.

Step 4: Don’t Talk About Your Putnam County, MO Case

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 Putnam County, MO case with your attorney and legal team.

Step 5: Don’t Consent to 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 Putnam County, MO area.

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 booking, you’ll be taken to a detention facility near Putnam County, MO. Depending on your charges, you may be eligible for bond or release on recognizance. Our Putnam County, MO criminal defense attorneys can:

• File motions to lower your bond amount
• Advocate for release pending trial
• Work with bail bondsmen to secure your freedom quickly
• Give you time to focus on your job, your loved ones, and your defense

Step 7: Write Down Every Detail of the Arrest

Memory fades quickly, so jot down everything you can remember right away. Include the time, location, what the officers said or did, any witnesses present, and whether any searches were conducted. These small details often become key evidence in proving your rights were violated or the arrest was mishandled.

If you hire a Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney in or around Putnam County, MO, you aren’t just hiring a leading criminal defense attorney in and around Putnam County, MO – you are safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with trustworthy criminal defense lawyers, our staff is available 24/7 and provides experience and expertise in the following areas for Putnam County, MO residents:

A Comprehensive Putnam County, MO Criminal Defense Firm

At Combs Waterkotte, our experienced Putnam 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 Putnam 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

Putnam County, MO Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

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 Putnam 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.

Discover how we defend clients in complex federal criminal cases in the Putnam 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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Putnam County Criminal Convictions and Their Impact in Missouri

Even a minor conviction in Putnam County, 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 Putnam County, MO criminal defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte can help you explore every available legal avenue to rebuild your life and reclaim your future.

Felony Classifications and Penalties in Putnam County, MO

Felonies in Missouri are classified by severity, each carrying its own range of punishments:

• Class A Felony — 10 to 30 years, or life in prison
• Class B Felony — 5 to 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 — 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 Putnam 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.

Understanding Misdemeanor Charges in Putnam County, 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 and fines up to $1,000
• Class C Misdemeanor — Up to 15 days in jail; a fine of up to $700
• Class D Misdemeanor — A fine of up to $500

Many misdemeanor offenders qualify for probation, community service, or expungement—and our experienced and relentless Putnam County, MO criminal defense attorneys fight to ensure you receive the most favorable outcome possible.

Why Combs Waterkotte Is the Right Criminal Defense Firm for You in Putnam 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 Putnam County, MO criminal defense lawyers apart:

• Personal Attention, 24/7: We’re available 24/7 for our clients in Putnam County, MO. Our attorneys take the time to listen, answer your questions, and guide you through every stage of the process. You’re not just a case number—you’re our priority.
• Trial-Ready Defense: We prepare every Putnam 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: We utilize expert witnesses, forensic specialists, and private investigators to uncover critical details that can make or break your case.
• Experience & Expertise in Putnam County. 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 Putnam County, MO defense team that’s experienced, aggressive, and completely committed to protecting your freedom.

Criminal Defense FAQs for Putnam County, MO

I was just arrested in Putnam County, MO. What should I do?

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 criminal 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.

Can I stay out of jail if I’m charged with a crime in Putnam County, MO?

Yes. Depending on the circumstances, our experienced Putnam 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 always. Missouri allows for expungement of certain crimes after a waiting period. Our Putnam County, MO criminal defense attorneys can determine if you qualify for expungement and help clear your record.

What if I’ve been charged with a felony but have no prior offenses?

Judges often consider lack of prior convictions as a mitigating factor. With the right representation, your Putnam 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.

Protect Your Rights and Your Future — Call Combs Waterkotte, Putnam County, MO’s Premier Criminal Defense Firm 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 Putnam 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 Putnam County, MO criminal defense attorney whenever you need guidance or support.

Don’t take chances with your freedom. Make Combs Waterkotte your first call. Contact us today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a no-obligation case evaluation. The sooner we start, the stronger your defense will be.