A criminal defense lawyer in Edwardsville, IL 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.
Facing criminal charges in Edwardsville, IL? You deserve a legal team that understands the local system and knows how to win. Combs Waterkotte‘s Edwardsville, IL criminal defense lawyers deliver focused, trial-ready, and personalized defense strategies for clients in Edwardsville and across Southern Illinois.
No matter the charge — whether it’s a DUI, a drug case, or a major felony — we’re here to fight for the best possible outcome.
What You’ll Learn on This Page
- What a criminal defense lawyer in Edwardsville, IL does — and why hiring someone local matters
- An overview of the most common charges we defend — from DUI to drug crimes and assault
- How our defense strategy starts with fast action, deep investigation, and courtroom preparation
- What happens after an arrest in Edwardsville, IL, and what steps to expect in the legal process
- How to choose the right attorney for your situation, and what makes our team different
- What immediate steps to take if you’re charged or under investigation in Edwardsville, IL
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.
Why Hire a Local Edwardsville, IL Criminal Defense Lawyer?
In criminal cases, local experience matters. A defense lawyer who knows Edwardsville, IL courts inside and out can help you avoid costly mistakes. Southern Illinois courts each have their own prosecutors and personalities, and navigating them takes more than textbook legal knowledge.
These are just a few reasons a local criminal defense attorney is the right choice:
- We know the players. Each judge and prosecutor brings their own style and expectations. We understand how individual judges approach cases and what local prosecutors consider during plea negotiations.
- We know the process. Our familiarity with programs, policies, and procedures helps us keep your case moving efficiently.
- We’re close by. If you’re arrested or called in for questioning, we’re already nearby and ready to move.
- 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 you the best possible chance at a fair outcome — with someone who knows your court and your community.
What Criminal Charges Do We Defend in Edwardsville, IL?
Criminal cases vary, but the Constitution guarantees your right to a fair trial and legal representation. Combs Waterkotte’s Edwardsville, IL criminal defense lawyers represent clients across Southern Illinois facing charges ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies.
Here are the offenses we most frequently defend:
- DUI: Our goal in every DUI case is to minimize the damage — including fighting the evidence and protecting your license from suspension.
- 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: From bar fights to felonies, we defend assault and battery cases by exposing inconsistencies in evidence and asserting your right to a fair trial.
- Domestic Battery: We take a thoughtful but firm approach to domestic battery cases, balancing legal strategy with concern for your relationships and future stability.
- Theft and Burglary: We fight theft and burglary charges by scrutinizing police reports, witness statements, and the strength of the evidence.
- Weapons Charges: Gun and weapon offenses often carry mandatory time and steep consequences — we fight to reduce or dismiss those charges.
- White Collar Crimes: When you’re facing allegations like financial theft or fraud, we act fast to contain the damage and build a detailed, strategic defense.
- Sex Offenses: The consequences of a sex offense charge can last a lifetime — we provide aggressive, private, and judgment-free representation.
- Juvenile Defense: When minors are charged with crimes, our priority is protecting their future — not just fighting charges.
- Probation Violations: Probation violations don’t always mean jail time — we fight to keep you out of custody and back in compliance.
Just because you’re accused doesn’t mean you’re convicted — and we’re here to make sure you don’t go through this process by yourself. Our job is to help you regain control — by clarifying your options, protecting your rights, and preparing you for what comes next.
How Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Defend Charges in Edwardsville, IL
We don’t wait for court to start building your case — your defense begins on day one. Our Edwardsville, IL criminal defense lawyers immediately begin working with you to analyze your case, protect your rights, and build the strongest defense possible.
Here’s how we build your defense:
- Early Intervention: The earlier we’re involved, the more options we have to protect you and influence the direction of your case.
- Independent Investigation: We verify and challenge the facts. That means reviewing every piece of evidence and tracking down what the state might have missed.
- Pretrial Motions: We challenge unlawful searches, faulty warrants, and other procedural violations that could invalidate the case.
- Tactical Negotiation: If a plea deal is in your best interest, we aim for the best possible terms by showing the prosecution we’re ready to fight.
- Trial-Ready Representation: When trial is the right path, we come prepared with a clear strategy, compelling evidence, and a focused courtroom presence.
- Client-Centered Advocacy: We don’t treat you like a case number. We listen to your priorities, answer your questions, and make sure you’re involved in every decision.
With Combs Waterkotte on your side in Edwardsville, IL, you’ll have a plan, a clear line of communication, and a defense that puts you first.
What Happens After an Arrest in Edwardsville, IL?
Being arrested is one of the most stressful experiences anyone can face — especially if it’s your first time. Knowing the steps ahead can help you avoid critical missteps and feel more confident in your next move.
These are the steps you can expect after getting arrested in Edwardsville, IL:
- Booking: Once you’re arrested, you’re transported to the local jail for official booking procedures. You’ll be fingerprinted, photographed, and formally charged as part of the booking process.
- 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: Your arraignment marks the beginning of the court process. You’ll hear your charges read aloud by the judge and be asked to enter a plea. Our job is to make sure you’re informed, supported, and legally protected at this stage.
- 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. Whatever direction your case takes, we provide strong guidance and skilled advocacy.
When should you hire a lawyer?
As soon as possible. 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 Edwardsville, IL Criminal Defense Lawyer
Your choice of defense lawyer can impact not just your case, but your future. Still, with countless options, it can be hard to know who to trust.
What should you prioritize when selecting a criminal lawyer in Edwardsville, IL?
- Local Experience: Knowing the personalities and patterns of the local courts gives your defense a real edge.
- Track Record of Results: Results matter — look for a defense lawyer who can show a track record of meaningful wins.
- Responsive Communication: Communication is key — you deserve a lawyer who is clear, responsive, and keeps you informed at all times.
- Trial Readiness: Even if a plea is possible, your attorney should be prepared to argue your case before a judge or jury.
- Client-Focused Approach: A strong defense starts with understanding you — your background, your goals, and your side of the story.
At Combs Waterkotte, we bring together legal skill and genuine dedication to protecting the people we represent. 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 and Southern Illinois, 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 Edwardsville, IL Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
The choices you make right now — even before charges are filed — can affect your future for years to come. An experienced Edwardsville, IL criminal defense lawyer can step in immediately and start defending your future.
Contact Combs Waterkotte online or call (314) 900-HELP today for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll talk through your situation, outline your next steps, and start developing a defense strategy that works for you.
