Wentzville, MO criminal defense attorney. An arrest or criminal accusation can turn your world upside down — but it doesn’t have to define your future. With an experienced Combs Waterkotte Wentzville, MO criminal defense attorney on your side, you’ll have an experienced advocate protecting your rights, your reputation, and your freedom every step of the way.
At Combs Waterkotte, our mission is clear: deliver exceptional legal defense and life-changing results. Our Wentzville, 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 Wentzville, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation with a trusted criminal defense attorney.
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 …
What You’ll Learn on This Page
Facing criminal charges in Wentzville, 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 Wentzville, MO and throughout Missouri, including felony and misdemeanor laws, federal prosecution, sentencing, and how the team at Combs Waterkotte fights to protect your future.
Inside this guide, you’ll discover:
- The critical first steps to take after an arrest in Wentzville, MO
- How state and federal criminal processes differ—and what that means for you
- The penalties for Missouri felonies and misdemeanors
- Our proven defense strategies for DUI, drug, assault, fraud, and violent crime cases
- Why Combs Waterkotte is recognized as Wentzville, MO’s leading criminal defense firm
- How our experience and strategy can help you secure the best possible outcome in Wentzville, MO.
Cases Handled
Over 10,000
Jail Days Saved
Over 1 Million
Google Reviews
400+ Perfect
Legal Experience
Over 60 Years
What You Should Do Right After an Arrest in Wentzville, MO
Being arrested can be frightening and confusing—especially if it’s your first time dealing with the Wentzville, 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 Wentzville, MO:
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 Wentzville, 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: Exercise 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: Contact a Wentzville, MO Criminal Defense Lawyer Right Away
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 Wentzville, MO criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte involved early means:
- Law enforcement and investigators must go through your lawyer for all communication
- We can ensure your rights are protected from the start
- Our legal team can start building your defense and securing evidence right away in Wentzville, MO
- We’re available 24/7 to respond to emergencies anywhere in Wentzville, MO.
Step 4: Keep Details of Your Wentzville, MO Case Private
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 Wentzville, MO case with your attorney and legal team.
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 Wentzville, MO area.
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 being booked into a Wentzville, MO detention facility, you may qualify for bail or release on your own recognizance, depending on the charges. An experienced Wentzville, MO criminal defense attorney can act quickly to:
- File motions to lower your bond amount
- 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
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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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 choose a Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney in the Wentzville, MO area, you aren’t just choosing the ideal criminal defense attorney in Wentzville, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re safeguarding 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 Wentzville and beyond:
Your Trusted Wentzville, MO Criminal Defense Team
The dedicated Wentzville, 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 Wentzville, 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 Wentzville, 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.
The federal criminal defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte know exactly how to level the playing field. Our Wentzville, 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 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 Wentzville, 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.
Understanding Wentzville Criminal Penalties and Your Rights Under Missouri Law
Even a seemingly minor conviction in Wentzville, 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.
But there are opportunities for a fresh start. Missouri law allows individuals to restore their rights through expungement, pardons, or record sealing. The Wentzville, 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 Offense Levels and Sentencing in Wentzville, 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 — 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
Aggravating factors (weapons, repeat offenses, or hate-related motives) can elevate a felony’s class—increasing penalties. However, a skilled Wentzville, MO criminal defense lawyer can often negotiate charge reductions, diversion programs, or case dismissals.
Understanding Misdemeanor Charges in Wentzville, 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; a fine of up to $1,000
- Class C Misdemeanor — Up to 15 days in jail and fines 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 Wentzville, MO criminal defense attorneys fight to ensure you receive the most favorable outcome possible.
Why Combs Waterkotte Is the Right Criminal Defense Firm for You in Wentzville, 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 Wentzville, MO criminal defense lawyers apart:
- Client-Focused Representation: We’re available 24/7 for our clients in Wentzville, 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: 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 utilize expert witnesses, forensic specialists, and private investigators to uncover critical details that can make or break your case.
- Proven Local Experience in Wentzville. MO: Our attorneys know the judges, prosecutors, and court systems throughout Wentzville, MO, allowing us to tailor defense strategies that work effectively in your jurisdiction.
When everything is on the line, trust a Wentzville, 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 Wentzville, MO
What should I do first if I’m arrested in Wentzville, 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 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.
Can I avoid jail time for a criminal charge in Wentzville, MO?
Yes. Depending on your case, our Wentzville, 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 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 Wentzville, 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 Wentzville, MO attorney can argue for reduced penalties, probation, or even case dismissal.
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, Wentzville, 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 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 Wentzville, 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.
