St. Charles, MO criminal defense attorney. Being arrested or accused of a crime can be one of the most overwhelming moments of your life. But a criminal charge is not the end of your story. With an experienced criminal defense attorney in St. Charles, MO from Combs Waterkotte by your side, you can protect your rights, fight for your freedom, and move forward with confidence.
At Combs Waterkotte, our mission is clear: deliver exceptional legal defense and life-changing results. Our St. Charles, 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.
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 St. Charles, 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 …
Overview of This Article
If you’ve been charged with a crime in St. Charles, 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.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- What to do right after being arrested in St. Charles, MO
- The key differences between state and federal criminal charges
- The penalties for St. Charles, MO felonies and misdemeanors
- How our attorneys defend clients in drug, assault, fraud, DUI, sex crime, and homicide cases
- Why Combs Waterkotte is one of Missouri’s top-rated criminal defense firms
- How our experience and strategy can help you secure the best possible outcome in St. Charles, MO.
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 St. Charles, MO
Being arrested can be frightening and confusing—especially if it’s your first time dealing with the St. Charles, 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 St. Charles, MO:
Step 1: Stay Calm and Cooperate
No matter how unfair or unnecessary the arrest may feel, it’s essential to remain composed. Arguing or resisting, even verbally, can lead to additional charges in St. Charles, MO. Keep your hands visible, follow all lawful instructions, and avoid sudden movements. Remember, your behavior is being closely observed and could later become part of the evidence against you.
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: Get a St. Charles, MO Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately
Don’t say a word or sign any papers until you’ve spoken with a lawyer. This is your right—use it. Calling a St. Charles, MO criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte right after your arrest gives you the strongest start possible because:
- 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 St. Charles, MO
- You can reach us 24 hours a day anywhere in the St. Charles, MO area and beyond—day or night, weekends and holidays included.
Step 4: Avoid Discussing Your St. Charles, MO Case with Anyone
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
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 St. Charles, MO area.
Evidence obtained through an illegal or warrantless search can often be suppressed, meaning it may be ruled inadmissible in court and cannot be used against you.
Step 6: Work to Secure Bail or Release
After booking, you’ll be taken to a detention facility near St. Charles, MO. Depending on your charges, you may be eligible for bond or release on recognizance. Our St. Charles, MO criminal defense attorneys can:
- File for a bond reduction hearing
- Argue for your release pending trial
- Work directly with bail bondsmen to secure your release fast
- Help you return to work, care for family, and assist in building your defense
Step 7: Document Everything You Remember
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.
-
Protect Your Life
![Image]()
Protect Your Life
A felony can have long-term consequences. Act quickly and carefully to protect your future and your livelihood.
Reach Out Now
-
Know Your Next Steps
![Image]()
Know Your Next Steps
Wondering what happens after your felony arrest? The skilled Combs Waterkotte attorneys have the answers.
Stay Informed
-
Title
![Image]()
Ready to Talk to an Expert?
Contact the experienced Combs Waterkotte felony lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP to get started on your defense.
Get Started
If you choose a Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney in or around St. Charles, MO, you aren’t just hiring a leading criminal defense attorney in St. Charles, MO and throughout Missouri – you are safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with trustworthy criminal defense attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and provides experience and expertise in the following areas for St. Charles, MO residents:
A Comprehensive St. Charles, MO Criminal Defense Firm
The dedicated St. Charles, MO criminal defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte are equipped to handle any criminal matter—whether you’re dealing with a simple ticket, a misdemeanor offense, or a high-stakes felony or federal charge.
We provide comprehensive legal defense across a full range of practice areas in and around St. Charles, 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
Federal Criminal Defense Attorney St. Charles, MO
Being charged with a federal crime is vastly different, and far more serious, than facing charges in state court. Federal prosecutors have nearly unlimited resources, extensive investigative power, and a conviction rate of over 90%, according to Pew Research.
At Combs Waterkotte, our St. Charles, 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 St. Charles, 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.
St. Charles Criminal Charges and Consequences Under Missouri Law
Even a minor conviction in St. Charles, 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 St. Charles, 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 St. Charles, 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 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 — up to 7 years in prison
- Class E Felony — no more than 4 years in prison
Factors like prior offenses, use of weapons, or crimes motivated by bias can increase the severity of a charge and the sentence you face. The good news is that a knowledgeable St. Charles, MO criminal defense lawyer can often step in early to negotiate reduced charges, alternative sentencing options, or even a complete dismissal — helping you protect your record and your future.
Understanding Misdemeanor Charges in St. Charles, 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 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 St. Charles, MO criminal defense attorneys fight to ensure you receive the most favorable outcome possible.
Why Hire Combs Waterkotte as Your Criminal Defense Lawyer in St. Charles, MO?
Not all St. Charles, MO criminal defense lawyers are created equal. Our legal team’s approach to defense is built on client focus, trial readiness, unmatched resources, and over six decades of combined expertise:
- Client-Centered Representation: We’re available 24/7 in St. Charles, 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-Tested Defense: We prepare every case like it’s going to court. That mindset not only strengthens your defense but gives us a clear advantage during plea negotiations and trial proceedings.
- Extensive Resources: We bring in the right resources, whether it’s witnesses, forensic experts, or investigators, to challenge the state’s evidence and expose weaknesses in their case.
- Local Knowledge & Experience in St. Charles. MO: Our attorneys know the judges, prosecutors, and court systems throughout St. Charles, MO, allowing us to tailor defense strategies that work effectively in your jurisdiction.
When everything is on the line, trust a St. Charles, MO criminal defense team that has the experience, resources, and commitment to fight for your best possible outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in St. Charles, MO
What should I do immediately after being arrested in St. Charles, MO?
Stay calm and avoid confrontation. Do not answer any questions or make statements without legal representation. Politely invoke your right to remain silent and contact an attorney immediately. Call (314) 900-HELP or reach out to Combs Waterkotte right away so our defense team can step in to protect your rights and begin preparing your case.
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 St. Charles, MO?
Yes. Depending on the circumstances, our experienced St. Charles, 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 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 St. Charles, 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 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 St. Charles, MO attorney can make sure your clean history works in your favor.
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 St. Charles, 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 St. Charles, 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.
