Criminal Defense Attorney University City, MO

University City, 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 University City, MO from Combs Waterkotte by your side, you can protect your rights, fight for your freedom, and move forward with confidence.

At Combs Waterkotte, we believe every client deserves a powerful defense and a fair chance to rebuild their life. Our University City, MO criminal defense lawyers handle everything from misdemeanors and felonies to complex federal cases. We take a proactive, strategic approach—building your case with precision, compassion, and determination.

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 University City, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation with a trusted criminal defense attorney.

What You’ll Learn on This Page

If you’ve been arrested or accused of a crime in University City, MO, your choice of attorney can determine your future. This page covers everything you need to know about criminal defense in University City, MO and across Missouri, from felony and misdemeanor classifications to federal cases, sentencing guidelines, and how Combs Waterkotte protects your rights.

Read on to learn:

• What to do right after being arrested in University City, MO
• How state and federal prosecutions differ
• The penalties for Missouri felonies and misdemeanors
• How our attorneys defend clients in drug, assault, fraud, DUI, sex crime, and homicide cases
• 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.

What to Do After You’re Arrested in University City, MO

Being arrested can be frightening and confusing—especially if it’s your first time dealing with the University City, 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 University City, MO:

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 University City, 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: 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 University City, 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 University City, MO criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte right after your arrest gives you the strongest start possible because:

• Police and prosecutors are required to 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 University City, MO
• Our attorneys are available 24/7 for emergency calls after an arrest in University City, MO—day or night.

Step 4: Keep Details of Your University City, MO Case Private

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: Refuse 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 University City, 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: Get Out on Bail or Release Quickly

After being booked into a University City, MO detention facility, you may qualify for bail or release on your own recognizance, depending on the charges. An experienced University City, MO criminal defense attorney can act quickly to:

• 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: Record Every Detail You Can 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.

If you hire a Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney in or around University City, MO, you aren’t just hiring a leading criminal defense attorney in University City, MO and beyond – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys, our staff is available 24/7 and provides experience and expertise in the following areas for University City, MO residents:

Your Trusted University City, MO Criminal Defense Team

The dedicated University City, 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 University City, 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

University City, MO Federal Crime Lawyer You Can Trust

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 University City, MO federal criminal defense attorneys are equipped to take on the most complex and high-stakes federal cases. With decades of combined courtroom experience, we stand up to the U.S. Department of Justice and other federal agencies to protect our clients’ rights. We handle a wide range of federal offenses, 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 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 University City, MO area, and how federal prosecutions differ from state-level ones, explore our comprehensive guide to federal felony charges.

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How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Protect Your Rights and Future

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University City Criminal Charges and Consequences Under Missouri Law

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.

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.

However, there is hope. Missouri law provides ways to restore your rights, including expungement, pardon, or record sealing. The University City, MO attorneys at Combs Waterkotte can help you explore your post-conviction options and start reclaiming your freedom.

Felony Offense Levels and Sentencing in University City, 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 — no more than 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 University City, 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.

Misdemeanor Offenses and Penalties in University City, 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; a fine of up to $2,000
• Class B Misdemeanor — Up to 6 months in jail; a fine of up to $1,000
• Class C Misdemeanor — Up to 15 days in jail; 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 University City, MO criminal defense attorneys fight to ensure you receive the most favorable outcome possible.

Why Hire Combs Waterkotte as Your Criminal Defense Lawyer in University City, MO?

Not all University City, 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:

• Personal Attention, 24/7: 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.
• Aggressive, Trial-Ready 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.
• 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.
• Proven Local Experience in University City. MO: Our attorneys know the judges, prosecutors, and court systems throughout University City, MO, allowing us to tailor defense strategies that work effectively in your jurisdiction.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in University City, MO

What should I do first if I’m arrested in University City, 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.

How are state and federal criminal charges different?

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 avoid jail time for a criminal charge in University City, MO?

Yes. Depending on your case, our University City, MO criminal defense attorneys may negotiate probation, suspended sentences, diversion programs, or treatment alternatives instead of jail time—especially for first-time offenders.

Will a criminal conviction stay on my record forever?

Not always. Missouri allows for expungement of certain crimes after a waiting period. Our University City, MO criminal defense attorneys can determine if you qualify for expungement and help clear your record.

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 University City, MO attorney can make sure your clean history works in your favor.

Can Combs Waterkotte still help if I already pled guilty?

Yes. Our attorneys regularly handle post-conviction relief cases, including appeals, motions for sentence reduction, and other remedies. Contact us right away—strict time limits may apply to your case, so acting quickly is essential.

Protect Your Rights and Your Future — Call Combs Waterkotte, University City, MO’s Premier Criminal Defense Firm 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 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 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.