Criminal defense attorney in Texas County, MO. 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 Texas County, 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 Texas County, 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.
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 Texas 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.
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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.
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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 Texas County, 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.
Inside this guide, you’ll discover:
- What to do right after being arrested in Texas County, MO
- The key differences between state and federal criminal charges
- Penalties and sentencing for misdemeanors and felonies in Texas County, MO
- How our attorneys defend clients in drug, assault, fraud, DUI, sex crime, and homicide cases
- Why Combs Waterkotte is recognized as Texas County, MO’s leading criminal defense firm
- How our experience and strategy can help you secure the best possible outcome in Texas County, MO.
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What to Do After You’re Arrested in Texas County, MO
Getting arrested is a stressful and confusing experience, especially if you’ve never dealt with the criminal justice system before. But your actions in the first few hours after an arrest can shape your entire case. Here’s exactly what to do to protect your rights and avoid common mistakes that could hurt your defense:
Step 1: Keep Calm and Avoid Resistance
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 Texas County, 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: Stay Silent and Ask for an Attorney
You have the constitutional right to remain silent. After providing basic identifying information (name, date of birth, address), you are not required to answer any questions about the alleged crime. Politely say: “I am invoking my right to remain silent. I would like to speak with my attorney.” Do not try to explain, justify, or talk your way out of the arrest, those statements can and will be used by prosecutors later.
Step 3: Get a Texas 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 Texas 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 Texas County, MO
- Our attorneys are available 24/7 for emergency calls after an arrest in Texas County, MO—day or night.
Step 4: Don’t Talk About Your Texas 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 Texas 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 Texas County, 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 being processed at a detention center in Texas County, 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 Texas County, MO criminal defense team at Combs Waterkotte can help:
- 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: Record Every Detail You Can Remember
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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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 criminal defense attorney in or around Texas County, MO, you’re not just hiring a leading criminal defense attorney in Texas County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting 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 Texas County and beyond:
A Full-Service Texas County, MO Criminal Defense Firm
The dedicated Texas County, 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.
Our legal team defends clients throughout Texas 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
Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Texas County, MO
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.
The federal criminal defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte know exactly how to level the playing field. Our Texas County, 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 Texas County, 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.
Texas County Criminal Charges and Consequences Under Missouri Law
Even a seemingly minor conviction in Texas County, 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.
Missouri law bars convicted felons from owning firearms, serving on juries, or holding public office. Many must also disclose their conviction status when applying for jobs or housing, creating lasting barriers even after they’ve served their time.
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 Texas County, MO defense lawyers work tirelessly to help clients clear their records and move forward with confidence and dignity.
Texas County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Texas County and Missouri.
Felony Offense Levels and Sentencing in Texas County, 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 — 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
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 Texas 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.
Misdemeanor Offenses and Penalties in Texas County, MO
Not all criminal charges are felonies, but even a misdemeanor in Missouri can have serious consequences if it’s not properly addressed. Misdemeanors are classified into four categories, each with different potential penalties:
- Class A Misdemeanor — Up to 1 year in jail; a fine of 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
Many misdemeanor offenders qualify for probation, community service, or expungement—and our experienced and relentless Texas County, MO criminal defense attorneys fight to ensure you receive the most favorable outcome possible.
Why Choose Combs Waterkotte as Your Criminal Defense Attorney in Texas 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 Texas County, MO criminal defense lawyers apart:
- Client-Centered Representation: We’re available 24/7 in Texas County, 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: Every case is prepared as if it’s going to trial. That level of readiness gives us the leverage to negotiate from a position of strength and the confidence to go the distance when necessary.
- Strategic 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 Texas 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 Texas County, MO defense team that’s experienced, aggressive, and completely committed to protecting your freedom.
Common Questions About Criminal Defense in Texas County, MO
I was just arrested in Texas County, MO. What should I do?
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 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 Texas County, MO?
Often, yes. Every case is different, but our Texas County, 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 Texas County, 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 happens if I’m charged with a felony but have no prior record?
Having a clean record can work in your favor. Courts often view a lack of prior convictions as a mitigating factor, which can lead to reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or even dismissal. With skilled representation from a Texas County, MO criminal defense attorney, you have a far greater chance of avoiding severe penalties.
Can Combs Waterkotte help if I already pled guilty in Texas County, MO?
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 Texas County, MO Criminal Defense Lawyers Right Away
The Texas County, 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 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 Texas County, 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 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.
