Criminal defense attorney in University City, 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 University City, 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 University City’s premier criminal defense firm by combining aggressive advocacy with strategic legal insight. Our University City, 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 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 University City, 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 University City, 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 University City, 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:
- What to do right after being arrested in University City, 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 University City, MO and beyond
- Why thousands across Missouri trust our firm when their future is on the line
- How we help you take control of your University City, MO case, and your future, from day one.
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 University City, MO
Being arrested in University City, 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 Cooperate
Even if you believe the arrest is unfair, do not argue or resist. Resisting arrest in the University City, 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
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 University City, 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 University City, MO criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte on your side from the very beginning, you can be confident that:
- Law enforcement and investigators must go through your lawyer for all communication
- We can ensure your rights are protected from the start
- We can begin gathering evidence immediately to strengthen your defense in University City, MO
- We’re available 24/7 to respond to emergencies anywhere in University City, MO.
Step 4: Don’t Talk About Your University City, 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 University City, MO case with your attorney and legal team.
Step 5: Never Agree to a Search Without a Warrant
If law enforcement asks to search your University City, 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.
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: Work to Secure Bail or Release
After being processed at a detention center in University City, 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 University City, MO criminal defense team at Combs Waterkotte can help:
- File for a bond reduction hearing
- Advocate for release pending trial
- Work directly with bail bondsmen to secure your release fast
- Early release allows you to continue working, caring for family, and helping with your defense
Step 7: Document Everything You Remember
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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When you hire a Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney in the University City, MO area, you aren’t just choosing the ideal criminal defense attorney in and around University City, MO – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and offers experience and expertise in the following areas for residents in University City and beyond:
A Comprehensive University City, MO Criminal Defense Firm
The University City, MO criminal defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte handle all levels of criminal cases—from traffic tickets and misdemeanors to serious felony and federal offenses.
Our University City, MO practice areas include:
- 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 University City, 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.
At Combs Waterkotte, our University City, 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 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.
Learn more about how we handle University City, MO federal criminal cases, what makes them unique, and how they are different from state cases.
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.
University City Criminal Convictions and Their Impact in Missouri
Even a seemingly minor conviction in University City, 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 University City, MO defense lawyers work tirelessly to help clients clear their records and move forward with confidence and dignity.
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 Classifications and Penalties in University City, 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 — at least 5 but no more than 15 years in prison
- Class C Felony — 3 to 10 years in prison
- Class D Felony — no more than 7 years in prison
- Class E Felony — no more than 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 University City, 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 University City, 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 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 University City, MO defense team at Combs Waterkotte will fight to keep your record clean and your life on track.
Why Choose Combs Waterkotte as Your Criminal Defense Attorney in University City, MO?
When your freedom and reputation are at stake, experience and strategy make all the difference. At Combs Waterkotte, our defense philosophy is built on preparation, client trust, and a proven record of results. With over six decades of combined experience, our team offers unmatched dedication and insight into the University City, MO court system:
- Client-Centered Representation: We’re available 24/7 for our clients in University City, 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-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 utilize expert witnesses, forensic specialists, and private investigators to uncover critical details that can make or break your case.
- Proven Local Experience in University City. MO: With decades of combined courtroom experience in University City, 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 your future is at stake, you deserve a University City, MO defense team that’s experienced, aggressive, and completely committed to protecting your freedom.
Common Questions About Criminal Defense in University City, MO
What should I do first if I’m arrested in University City, 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 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.
Is it possible to avoid jail time for a criminal charge in University City, MO?
Yes. Depending on the circumstances, our experienced University City, 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 necessarily. Missouri law allows for the expungement of certain criminal convictions after a set waiting period. Our University City, 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 consider lack of prior convictions as a mitigating factor. With the right representation, your University City, MO attorney can argue for reduced penalties, probation, or even case dismissal.
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.
Protect Your Rights and Your Future — Call Combs Waterkotte, University City, MO’s Premier Criminal Defense Firm Now
The University City, 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 University City, 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.
