Sedalia, 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 Sedalia, 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 Sedalia’s premier criminal defense firm by combining aggressive advocacy with strategic legal insight. Our Sedalia, 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 Sedalia, MO area, call us right away at (314) 900-HELP, or contact us online, for a free, confidential consultation.
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Article Summary
Facing criminal charges in Sedalia, 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 Sedalia, MO and throughout Missouri, including felony and misdemeanor laws, federal prosecution, sentencing, and how the team at Combs Waterkotte fights to protect your future.
Read on to learn:
- The critical first steps to take after an arrest in Sedalia, MO
- How state and federal criminal processes differ—and what that means for you
- Penalties and sentencing for misdemeanors and felonies in Sedalia, MO
- How Combs Waterkotte defends clients in complex drug, DUI, sex crime, and violent crime cases in Sedalia, MO and beyond
- Why thousands across Missouri trust our firm when their future is on the line
- How our experience and strategy can help you secure the best possible outcome in Sedalia, MO.
Cases Handled
Over 10,000
Jail Days Saved
Over 1 Million
Google Reviews
400+ Perfect
Legal Experience
Over 60 Years
Steps to Take After an Arrest in Sedalia, MO
Being arrested in Sedalia, 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 Sedalia, 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
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: Contact a Sedalia, MO Criminal Defense Lawyer Right Away
Don’t say a word or sign any papers until you’ve spoken with a lawyer. This is your right—use it. Calling a Sedalia, MO criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte right after your arrest gives you the strongest start possible because:
- Law enforcement and investigators must go through your lawyer for all communication
- We can ensure your rights are protected from the start
- Our team can start gathering and preserving key evidence immediately in Sedalia, MO
- Our attorneys are available 24/7 for emergency calls after an arrest in Sedalia, MO—day or night.
Step 4: Avoid Discussing Your Sedalia, 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 Sedalia, MO case with your attorney and legal team.
Step 5: Refuse Searches Without a Warrant
Police may ask for your consent to search your car, home, or phone in the Sedalia, MO area. You have the right to refuse consent unless they present a valid warrant. Politely say, “I do not consent to any searches.”
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 Sedalia, MO. Depending on your charges, you may be eligible for bond or release on recognizance. Our Sedalia, MO criminal defense attorneys can:
- File motions to lower your bond amount
- Argue for your release pending trial
- Coordinate with bail bondsmen to expedite your release
- 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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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 choose a Combs Waterkotte Sedalia, MO criminal defense attorney, you aren’t just hiring a top-rated criminal defense attorney in and around Sedalia, MO – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to trustworthy criminal defense attorneys, our team is available 24/7 and offers experience and expertise in the following areas for residents in Sedalia and beyond:
Your Trusted Sedalia, MO Criminal Defense Team
The Sedalia, MO criminal defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte handle all levels of criminal cases—from traffic tickets and misdemeanors to serious felony and federal offenses.
We provide comprehensive legal defense across a full range of practice areas in and around Sedalia, MO, including:
- 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
Sedalia, 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.
The federal criminal defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte know exactly how to level the playing field. Our Sedalia, 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
We understand that federal prosecutors are driven to win. They often push for plea bargains that result in lengthy prison sentences and lifelong records. Our firm’s approach is different—we challenge the evidence, expose procedural errors, and fight to have charges dismissed or reduced before they ever reach a plea stage.
Discover how we defend clients in complex federal criminal cases in the Sedalia, 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.
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.
Sedalia Criminal Charges and Consequences Under Missouri Law
Even a minor conviction in Sedalia, 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.
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 Sedalia, MO defense lawyers work tirelessly to help clients clear their records and move forward with confidence and dignity.
Pettis County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Pettis County and Missouri.
Felony Offense Levels and Sentencing in Sedalia, 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 in state prison, or life imprisonment
- Class B Felony — 5 to 15 years in prison
- Class C Felony — between 3 and 10 years in prison
- Class D Felony — up to 7 years in prison
- Class E Felony — up to 4 years in prison
Aggravating factors (weapons, repeat offenses, or hate-related motives) can elevate a felony’s class—increasing penalties. However, a skilled Sedalia, MO criminal defense lawyer can often negotiate charge reductions, diversion programs, or case dismissals.
Misdemeanor Offenses and Penalties in Sedalia, 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 and/or fines 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 or a fine of 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 Sedalia, MO defense team at Combs Waterkotte will fight to keep your record clean and your life on track.
Why Combs Waterkotte Is the Right Criminal Defense Firm for You in Sedalia, 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 Sedalia, MO criminal defense lawyers apart:
- Personal Attention, 24/7: We’re available 24/7 for our clients in Sedalia, 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 Sedalia, 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: 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.
- Experience & Expertise in Sedalia. 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 everything is on the line, trust a Sedalia, MO criminal defense team that has the experience, resources, and commitment to fight for your best possible outcome.
Common Questions About Criminal Defense in Sedalia, MO
What should I do first if I’m arrested in Sedalia, MO?
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 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 stay out of jail if I’m charged with a crime in Sedalia, MO?
Often, yes. Every case is different, but our Sedalia, 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 criminal conviction stay on my record forever?
Not always. Missouri gives many people a second chance through the expungement process. Depending on your case, you may be eligible to have your record sealed or cleared after a waiting period. Our Sedalia, MO criminal defense attorneys can help you find out if you qualify and take steps to restore your reputation.
What happens if I’m charged with a felony but have no prior record?
Judges often consider lack of prior convictions as a mitigating factor. With the right representation, your Sedalia, MO attorney can argue for reduced penalties, probation, or even case dismissal.
Can Combs Waterkotte still help if I already pled guilty?
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 Sedalia, MO Criminal Defense Attorney 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 Sedalia, MO defense attorneys, we aren’t afraid of doing whatever it takes to prove your innocence—including going 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 Sedalia, 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 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.
