A criminal defense lawyer in Southern Illinois is a legal advocate who defends individuals facing criminal charges in state courts, ensuring their rights are protected at every stage of the legal process.
If you’ve been arrested, charged with a crime, or are under investigation anywhere in Southern Illinois, you need a defense team that knows the local court system, knows the law, and knows how to win. Combs Waterkotte‘s Southern Illinois criminal defense lawyers provide aggressive, strategic, and compassionate representation for clients across the region, including Belleville, Marion, Carbondale, and beyond.
Whether you’re dealing with a DUI, drug offense, or serious felony, our attorneys are ready to step in immediately, explain your options, and fight for the best possible outcome.
What You’ll Learn on This Page
- What a criminal defense lawyer in Southern Illinois does — and why local experience matters
- The most common types of charges we defend, including DUI, drug, assault, and more
- How we approach every case with early intervention, investigation, and trial-readiness
- What to expect after an arrest: from booking to trial or plea negotiations
- How to choose the right lawyer for your case — and what makes us different
- What to do right now if you’re facing criminal charges or under investigation
Free book
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Protect Your Rights and Future
Combs Waterkotte has over 50 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.
Why Hire a Local Southern Illinois Criminal Defense Lawyer?
When you’re facing criminal charges, having a defense lawyer who knows the local Southern Illinois landscape can be the difference between a conviction and dismissal. Southern Illinois courts each have their prosecutors and personalities, and navigating them takes more than textbook legal knowledge.
Here’s why working with a truly local criminal defense attorney matters:
- We know the players. Every courthouse is different. We understand how individual judges approach cases and what local prosecutors consider during plea negotiations.
- We know the process. From pretrial diversion programs to probation office requirements, our familiarity with local systems helps us move cases faster, and smarter.
- We’re close by. When emergencies happen – like an arrest or being called into questioning – we’re already in the region and ready to act.
- We have a reputation. Combs Waterkotte is known and respected throughout Southern Illinois for strong advocacy, thorough preparation, and real results.
Hiring a local attorney gives yourself the best possible shot at a fair outcome – with someone who understands your charges, your court, and your community.
What Criminal Charges Do We Defend in Southern Illinois?
No two criminal cases are exactly alike, but the U.S. Constitution demands a fair trial and the opportunity for a robust defense for everyone. Combs Waterkotte’s Southern Illinois criminal defense lawyers defend clients against a wide range of state criminal charges across Southern Illinois, from misdemeanors to serious felonies.
Here are the most common charges we handle:
- DUI: Whether it’s a first offense or a repeat arrest, we fight to protect your license, limit penalties, and challenge breath or blood test evidence whenever possible.
- Drug Possession and Trafficking: From minor possession cases to large-scale distribution charges, we work to suppress unlawful searches, negotiate reduced charges, and avoid incarceration.
- Assault and Battery: We defend clients accused of everything from bar fights to aggravated assault, often uncovering self-defense arguments or inconsistencies in witness accounts.
- Domestic Battery: These emotionally complex cases demand a careful, strategic approach. We defend your rights while working to protect your personal relationships and future.
- Theft and Burglary: Whether you’re charged with shoplifting, robbery, or burglary, we challenge weak evidence and work to reduce or dismiss the charges.
- Weapons Charges: Southern Illinois courts take gun and weapon violations seriously. We defend unlawful possession, concealed carry violations, and gun-related enhancements to other charges.
- White Collar Crimes: Allegations of fraud, embezzlement, or financial theft can be devastating to your reputation. We help you respond quickly, strategically, and discreetly.
- Sex Offenses: These charges carry lifelong consequences. We provide aggressive and confidential defense for clients accused of sexual assault, misconduct, or exploitation.
- Juvenile Defense: When minors face criminal charges, the stakes are incredibly high. We work to protect their future and pursue rehabilitative options over punishment.
- Probation Violations: Missed a court date or failed a drug test? We help you avoid jail by challenging allegations and working toward alternatives.
While it may feel like the world is against you, facing a criminal charge doesn’t automatically make you guilty, and you don’t have to go through this alone. We’re here to help you understand your situation, defend your rights, and move forward feeling confident and empowered.
Southern Illinois Courts Our Criminal Defense Attorneys We Serve
We’ve represented clients in courtrooms throughout Southern Illinois and understand the nuances that can shape the outcome of your case. From how local judges handle bond hearings to how prosecutors evaluate plea deals, our experience gives you a critical edge.
We regularly defend clients in counties across the region, including:
- St. Clair County – Belleville: One of the busiest criminal court systems in Southern Illinois, where we’ve handled everything from DUIs to high-level felony trials.
- Madison County – Edwardsville: Known for its procedural formality and complex caseloads, we have a strong track record navigating its courtroom dynamics.
- Jackson County – Murphysboro: We represent both local residents and SIU students, helping clients avoid long-term consequences from youthful mistakes or overcharges.
- Williamson County – Marion: With proactive judges and structured dockets, we’re prepared for the pace and expectations unique to this jurisdiction.
- Franklin County – Benton: In this smaller venue, local knowledge and a professional reputation go a long way — and we’ve earned both.
If your case is in a neighboring county not listed above, we’ve practiced there, too. Reach out, and we’ll let you know exactly how we can help.
How Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Defend Charges in Southern Illinois
A strong defense doesn’t start in the courtroom – it starts the moment you hire us. Our Southern Illinois criminal defense lawyers take a proactive, strategic approach to every case, using our experience and insight to put you in the best possible position from day one.
Here’s how we build your defense:
- Early Intervention: Timing matters. We get involved quickly to protect your rights, advise you before police questioning, and take steps to limit the damage before charges are even filed.
- Independent Investigation: We don’t rely solely on the prosecution’s version of events. We examine police reports, interview witnesses, inspect the evidence, and often uncover facts that work in your favor.
- Pretrial Motions: We aggressively challenge unlawful searches, flawed warrants, and procedural missteps. In many cases, this leads to key evidence being thrown out, or charges being dropped altogether.
- Tactical Negotiation: If a plea deal is in your best interest, we negotiate from a position of strength. Prosecutors know we’re prepared to go to trial, and that gives us leverage.
- Trial-Ready Representation: If your case goes to trial, we come prepared, with a clear narrative, solid evidence, expert witnesses if needed, and a courtroom-tested plan to defend your rights.
- Client-Centered Advocacy: We don’t treat you like a case file. We take the time to understand your priorities, explain your options clearly, and build a defense strategy that allows you to move on with your life. We don’t charge by the hour, so you can contact us 24/7 with any questions about your case.
Our criminal defense lawyers in Southern Illinois build a strategy tailored to your situation, your goals, and your future. You’ll never be left wondering where your case stands or what comes next.
What Happens After an Arrest in Southern Illinois?
Being arrested is one of the most stressful experiences a person can go through, especially if it’s your first time. Understanding the steps that follow can help you feel more in control, and more importantly, help you avoid costly mistakes.
Here’s what typically happens after an arrest in Southern Illinois:
- Booking: After your arrest, you’ll be taken to the local jail for processing. This includes fingerprinting, photos, and official documentation of the charges.
- Bond Hearing: Within a day or two, you’ll appear before a judge who will determine whether you can be released and under what conditions. We advocate aggressively for your release or for the lowest possible bond.
- Arraignment: This is your first formal court appearance. The judge will read the charges against you, and you’ll enter a plea. We ensure you’re prepared, protected, and understand every step of the process.
- Discovery and Pretrial Motions: This is where we begin building your defense. We request all the prosecution’s evidence, challenge weak or illegally obtained evidence, and file motions to suppress or dismiss.
- Plea or Trial: Depending on the strength of the evidence and your goals, we may negotiate for a favorable plea deal or proceed to trial. Either way, you’ll have a clear strategy and confident representation.
When should you hire a lawyer?
Immediately. The earlier we’re involved, the more we can do to help, from protecting your rights during police questioning to influencing the direction of the case before it gains momentum.
Can charges be dropped before trial?
Yes. In many cases, charges can be dismissed or reduced through effective pretrial motions, lack of evidence, or successful negotiation. We review every detail to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
How to Choose the Right Southern Illinois Criminal Defense Lawyer
The lawyer you choose can make a massive difference in how your case plays out — and how your life looks afterward. But with so many attorneys out there, how do you know who’s the right fit?
Here’s what to look for when hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Southern Illinois:
- Local Experience: A lawyer who knows the local judges, prosecutors, and court procedures can spot opportunities — and avoid pitfalls — that outsiders might miss.
- Track Record of Results: Ask about outcomes in cases like yours. Dismissals, reduced charges, and not-guilty verdicts are all signs you’re working with a proven advocate.
- Responsive Communication: You should never be left in the dark about your own case. A good lawyer explains things clearly, answers questions quickly, and keeps you updated every step of the way.
- Trial Readiness: Many criminal cases don’t go to trial — but yours might. Your lawyer should be prepared to fight for you in the courtroom if that’s what it takes.
- Client-Focused Approach: You’re not just a case file. Look for a lawyer who listens, respects your goals, and takes the time to understand your story.
Our Southern Illinois criminal defense attorneys combine courtroom experience with a life-long passion for defending the rights of the accused. We’re here to defend your future and help you move forward with confidence.
Free book
How to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Charged with a crime? The lawyer you hire matters. Combs Waterkotte, recognized for top-tier criminal defense in Missouri, created this guide to help you find the right attorney. Learn what to look for, key questions to ask, and red flags to avoid.
Talk to a Southern Illinois Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
If you’re facing criminal charges – or even just being investigated – the decisions you make right now could shape the rest of your life. You need a criminal defense lawyer in Southern Illinois who knows the local courts, understands the stakes, and is ready to fight for you from the very first conversation.
Contact Combs Waterkotte online or call (314) 900-HELP today for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and begin building a strategy designed to protect your freedom and your future.
We proudly serve clients across Southern Illinois, including Belleville, Marion, Carbondale, Murphysboro, and surrounding communities.
