Criminal Defense Lawyer in St. Louis

Trusted St. Louis, MO Criminal Defense Lawyers

Though you have rights and protections when accused of a crime in St. Louis or anywhere else in Missouri, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney fighting for you and preserving those rights. The possible outcomes after being arrested for a crime vary so greatly and it takes a skilled St. Louis criminal defense lawyer to navigate the legal proceedings that follow. We will lead the way and protect you from unfair and unlawful treatment by the courts.

We help people just like you when facing life-altering criminal charges. Our criminal defense legal team has more than 60 years of combined experience and has successfully handled over 10,000 cases just like yours. Speak to a criminal defense lawyer today at (314) 900-HELP.

A Full St. Louis Criminal Defense Team to Support You

By hiring Combs Waterkotte, you get an entire team of skilled criminal defense lawyers, paralegals, and staff working together on your case. From seasoned trial attorneys to friendly, compassionate, and client-focused support staff, every member of our office is dedicated to:

• Protecting your rights
• Guiding you through the entire process
• Helping you move forward
• Fighting for the best possible resolution to your case

St. Louis Criminal Defense Lawyer | Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in St. Louis, MO

Our firm has successfully handled thousands of criminal cases across the St. Louis area, from misdemeanor charges to serious felonies. Whether you’re facing accusations of assault, drug possession, theft, or complex federal cases, we have the experience and determination to fight for you. We win cases other firms in St. Louis won't even take on, and are prepared to defend you against any criminal charge in Missouri.

How Our St. Louis Criminal Defense Lawyers Help You

Being charged doesn’t mean you’ll be convicted. Combs Waterkotte moves quickly to protect your freedom, record, and future at every stage of a case.

• Pre-charge protection: Intervene before filing, handle police contact, assert your rights, and push for declination or reduced charges. (Watch Video: What Should I Say to Police?)


• Bail & bond: Seek release on recognizance or bond reductions; argue for reasonable conditions; request modifications (travel/work/school) and removal of unnecessary monitoring. (Watch Video: What Is the Process for Getting Bail in Missouri)


• Warrants & new court dates: Quash/recall warrants and get you back on the calendar without another arrest.


• Suppress illegal evidence: Challenge stops, searches, and statements; file motions to suppress and exclude evidence obtained in violation of your rights.


• Motion to dismiss or reduce: Attack probable cause, charging defects, overcharging, and enhancements to pursue dismissals or lesser counts. (Watch Video: Can Criminal Charges Be Dropped?)


• Full discovery pressure: Demand complete evidence, enforce deadlines, and sanction late disclosures so you aren’t ambushed.


• Independent investigation: Interview witnesses, retain a private investigator, issue subpoenas, secure surveillance/911/body-cam, and develop alibis.


• Forensics & lab challenges: Re-test when appropriate; scrutinize chain of custody, contamination risks, and methodology; cross-examine lab personnel.


• Digital evidence review: Analyze phone downloads, social media, GPS, and video; move to limit unreliable or prejudicial material.


• Strategic negotiations: Leverage weaknesses for charge reductions, deferred dispositions, or dismissals—only when it benefits you. (Watch Video: How Does Plea Bargaining Work?)


• Diversion & alternatives: Pursue diversion, treatment courts, community service, classes, and other outcomes that avoid jail and protect your record.


• Missouri-specific relief (SIS/SES): Seek suspended imposition/execution of sentence where eligible to minimize or avoid a conviction on your record.


• Sentencing mitigation: Build mitigation packets (work/school history, character letters, treatment, restitution plans) to reduce penalties.


• Collateral-consequence planning: Advise on effects to employment, professional licenses, housing, firearms, and immigration; coordinate with outside counsel when needed.


• Probation & parole help: Defend alleged violations, argue for alternatives to revocation, seek early discharge, and adjust conditions so you can keep working and caring for family.


• Protective orders crossover: Defend against orders of protection and related contempt issues that can impact your criminal case.


• Asset forfeiture defense: Contest seizures and negotiate returns when the state targets your property.


• Trial-ready from day one: Prepare motions in limine, jury selection strategy, and witness examinations so you’re positioned to win if trial is the best path.

Your First and Last Defense Against the State

Although we hope that most St. Louis citizens know their constitutional rights when facing questioning or arrest, there is a strict protocol that law enforcement must follow. Our St. Louis criminal defense attorneys holds them accountable. Police will go to great lengths to obtain the “evidence” needed for a conviction. In fact, police are even allowed to lie during interrogations. A Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney will make sure law enforcement does not violate:

• Your Fourth Amendment right against illegal search and seizure
• Your Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination
• Your Sixth Amendment right to a lawyer

Criminal law in St. Louis is complicated. In certain cases, it may be best to accept a plea deal or negotiate with the prosecution to reduce the charges. However, every case is different. Our legal team has strong relationships with local courts and judges throughout St. Louis, and may be able to ask for leniency due to mitigating circumstances. If the case goes to trial, we may be able to show there is insufficient evidence to convict you beyond a reasonable doubt. Or maybe the evidence was contaminated? Call Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us.

Every case is different, but our goal is constant: the best possible outcome. Read more about why you should choose Combs Waterkotte here.

Charges Our St. Louis Criminal Defense Lawyers Take On

If you’ve been charged with a crime in St. Louis, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney with experience in Missouri. Combs Waterkotte has successfully defended clients against a wide range of charges, from drug crimes to domestic violence offenses. A conviction can impact your freedom, career, and future. Our skilled legal team fights tenaciously to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome in your case.

Felony Defense Lawyer in St. Louis, MO

Being accused of a crime classified by Missouri as a felony can have years-long or permanent consequences for your life. In Missouri, crimes that are considered felonies are classified into categories based on the severity.

Felonies range from class A crimes, such as murder or kidnapping, all the way to class D felonies like third-degree assault or leaving the scene of an accident.

Sentencing guidelines and punishments vary depending on what class of felony you are facing. This could include a potentially long prison sentence, substantial fines, or a lengthy probation period. In addition, you might run into difficulty finding work, and may not be able to exercise your right to vote or possess a firearm.

• Class A Felony — Minimum of 10 years and no more than 30 years in prison, or life in prison. (Watch Video)


• Class B Felony — At least five but no more than 15 years in prison. (Watch Video)


• Class C Felony — Between three and 10 years in prison. (Watch Video)


• Class D Felony — Up to seven years in prison. (Watch Video)


• Class E Felony — Up to four years in prison. (Watch Video)

Read our Top 10 Felony FAQs.

Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer St. Louis, MO

Being accused of a misdemeanor in St. Louis may not sound as serious as a felony, but it’s still a criminal charge that can carry jail time, fines, probation, and a record that follows you for years. Common misdemeanors in St. Louis include DWI (first offense), possession drug paraphernalia, third-degree domestic assault, petty theft or shoplifting, trespassing, peace disturbances, and some traffic-related charges.

Misdemeanors may not carry the same prison sentences as felonies, but a conviction can still mean jail time, expensive fines, probation, and a criminal record that follows you for years. Employers, landlords, schools, and even professional licensing boards often treat misdemeanors as red flags, making it harder to move forward with your life if you’re convicted.

Missouri divides misdemeanors into five categories:

• Class A Misdemeanor — Up to 1 year in jail and $2,000 in fines. (Watch Video)


• Class B Misdemeanor — Up to 6 months in jail and $1,000 in fines. (Watch Video)


• Class C Misdemeanor — Up to 15 days in jail and $700 in fines. (Watch Video)


• Class D Misdemeanor — Up to a $500 fine. (Watch Video)


• Unclassified Misdemeanor — Penalties set by the specific statute. (Watch Video)

Our St. Louis criminal defense attorneys work to keep misdemeanors off your record entirely. That can mean pushing for dismissals when your rights are violated, negotiating for entry into diversion programs, or reducing charges to infractions that don’t carry jail time.

And if the prosecution won’t back down, our criminal defense lawyers are prepared to take your case to trial and fight for an acquittal.

DWI/DUI Lawyer St. Louis, MO

Combs Waterkotte is an experienced DWI/DUI law firm in St. Louis, MO that has helped countless clients fight drunk and drugged driving charges.

Missouri takes impaired driving very seriously: even a first offense can mean license suspension, steep fines, skyrocketing insurance rates, ignition interlock requirements, and a criminal record.

Repeat offenses carry even harsher penalties, including mandatory jail time and multi-year license revocations.

Missouri law sets penalties for DWI/DUI convictions as follows:

• First Offense — Up to 6 months in jail, $1,000 in fines, 30-day license suspension, ignition interlock in some cases.


• Second Offense — Up to 1 year in jail, $2,000 in fines, 1-year license revocation, ignition interlock required.


• Third Offense (Persistent Offender) — Felony charge, up to 4 years in prison, $10,000 in fines, 10-year license denial.


• Fourth Offense (Aggravated Offender) — Felony charge, up to 7 years in prison, $10,000 in fines, permanent license revocation.


• Fifth Offense (Chronic Offender) — Felony charge, up to 15 years in prison, $10,000 in fines, permanent license revocation.


• DWI With Accident — Added penalties for property damage or endangerment of others.


• DWI Resulting in Serious Injury — Felony charge, up to 7 years in prison, major fines, restitution, and multi-year license loss.


• DWI Resulting in Death (Vehicular Manslaughter) — Felony charge, up to 15 years in prison, $10,000 in fines, permanent license revocation.


• DWI With Child Endangerment — Felony charges if a minor was in the vehicle, with enhanced penalties on top of standard sentencing.


• Hit and Run DWI — Leaving the scene while intoxicated can mean stacked felony charges, longer prison terms, and harsher license consequences.

Our St. Louis DWI defense lawyers don’t just accept the state’s version of events or pressure you to take an unfavorable plea deal. Our DWI defense approach begins with a thorough review of a police report and all the evidence against you. While you may think that you are going to be certainly convicted, the facts of your case may show that this may not be the case.

Police officers and staff are required by law to follow a particular procedure when making arrests for DWI/DUI. If they deviate from this protocol even slightly, or improperly administer components like field sobriety tests, what was once an airtight case can now become one with grounds for dismissal.

We scrutinize traffic stops, field sobriety tests, and breath or blood results for errors. Our lawyers regularly succeed in having charges reduced or dismissed, negotiating for alternatives like treatment or diversion programs, or winning outright acquittals at trial. We also fight aggressively to protect your driver’s license in the separate Administrative Hearing, and in most cases are able to save a license.

Our firm has helped many people who have been arrested for DWI/DUI and wish to fight their charges. We have succeeded in reducing charges, getting fair adjudications, and having DWI/DUI cases dismissed. Combs Waterkotte is ready to take your DWI/DUI case and provide you with the legal representation you deserve.

Read our Top 10 DWI FAQs.

Violent Crimes Lawyer St. Louis, MO

Combs Waterkotte is an experienced violent crimes defense law firm in St. Louis, MO that has defended clients facing some of the most serious accusations under Missouri law.

Violent offenses in St. Louis carry especially severe consequences: long prison sentences, steep fines, loss of civil rights such as voting and firearm ownership, and a permanent criminal record. Even a single conviction can alter the course of your life.

Depending on the facts of the case, charges may range from misdemeanors to Class A felonies punishable by decades behind bars. Prosecutors treat these cases aggressively, which means you need a defense team that is trial-ready from day one.

Common violent crime cases we defend include:

• Murder (First Degree – §565.020, Second Degree – §565.021) — Class A felonies; punishable by life in prison or even the death penalty for first degree.


• Voluntary Manslaughter & Involuntary Manslaughter — Felony charges with sentences ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison, depending on circumstances.


• Assault (First, Second, Third, and Fourth Degree) — From misdemeanors up to Class B felonies; penalties include years in prison and steep fines.


• Robbery (First & Second Degree) — Felonies carrying 5 to 30 years in prison, with armed robbery often requiring mandatory prison time.


• Kidnapping — A Class A or B felony depending on severity, with possible life imprisonment.


• Armed Criminal Action / Weapons Offenses — Charges tied to using a weapon in the commission of a crime; sentencing enhancements often add 3 years to life in prison, consecutive to the underlying charge.


• Other Violent Offenses — Such as carjacking, unlawful use of a weapon, or child abuse, each carrying severe felony-level penalties.

Our St. Louis violent crimes defense lawyers act quickly to build your case. We scrutinize police reports, forensics, and witness credibility, and present defenses such as self-defense, mistaken identity, or lack of intent. If trial is the best option, we are prepared to fight for acquittals and protect your future.

Domestic Violence Lawyer St. Louis, MO

Domestic violence cases are highly emotional and often move quickly through Missouri courts. A conviction can bring jail or prison time, fines, firearm restrictions, and a permanent criminal record that can’t be expunged. On top of the criminal penalties, many people also face civil issues like Orders of Protection that impact custody, housing, and even where you’re allowed to go.

Our St. Louis domestic violence attorneys defend clients against domestic assault charges of every degree, and we also help navigate the Order of Protection process. Our attorneys work to protect your parental rights, maintain your freedom of movement, and safeguard your reputation while fighting the underlying criminal allegations.

Common domestic violence charges and related offenses include:

• Domestic Assault (First Degree) — Attempting to kill or knowingly causing serious physical injury to a household or family member. A Class B or A felony; punishable by 5–30 years or life in prison if serious injury or a deadly weapon is involved.


• Domestic Assault (Second Degree) — Causing injury with a dangerous weapon, choking, or recklessly causing serious harm. A Class C felony; carries 3–10 years in prison.


• Domestic Assault (Third Degree) — Knowingly inflicting physical injury or attempting to cause harm without a weapon. A Class E felony; up to 4 years in prison.


• Domestic Assault (Fourth Degree) — Threatening harm, offensive physical contact, or attempts to injure. A Class A misdemeanor, or Class E felony for repeat offenders; up to 1 year in jail.


• Child Endangerment — Placing a child in a situation that risks injury, neglect, or exposure to drugs/alcohol. Penalties range from misdemeanors to Class C felonies depending on the level of risk or harm.


• Elder Abuse / Abuse of a Vulnerable Person — Physically harming, neglecting, or exploiting an elderly or disabled person. Felony charges that can lead to multi-year prison sentences.


• Violation of an Order of Protection — Entering restricted areas, contacting a protected person, or otherwise disobeying a court-issued protective order. A Class A misdemeanor for a first offense; repeat violations can be charged as felonies.


• Stalking / Harassment (Domestic Context) — Following, threatening, or repeatedly contacting a partner or family member to cause fear or distress. Charges vary from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the conduct and prior history.

Our domestic violence defense team challenges questionable accusations, exposes inconsistencies, and makes sure your side of the story is heard. We understand that these cases often hinge on conflicting testimony, and we fight to protect your rights both in criminal court and in civil protection order hearings.

Read our Top 10 Domestic Violence FAQs.

Drug Charges Lawyer St. Louis, MO

Our St. Louis criminal defense attorneys know that even good people who live productive lives can get caught up in drug addiction, which can lead them to desperate acts to support said addiction. In Missouri, drug charges are largely based on the type of drug involved and the amount one had in possession. In addition, the law differs between whether you simply possessed an illegal substance, or were intending to sell or distribute it.

Common drug-related charges we defend against include:

• Possession of a Controlled Substance — Having even a small amount of an illegal drug can result in misdemeanor or felony charges.


• Possession with Intent to Distribute — Prosecutors may use the amount, packaging, or paraphernalia to claim you planned to sell.


• Distribution / Delivery of Controlled Substances — Felony-level offenses with penalties tied to the type of drug and quantity involved.


• Drug Trafficking — Among the most serious drug charges; large-scale cases often carry mandatory minimum prison terms.


• Drug Manufacturing — Producing or cultivating controlled substances, such as methamphetamine labs or marijuana grow operations.


• Cocaine Charges — Possession or distribution of cocaine is a felony in Missouri, with penalties depending on the quantity and intent.


• Heroin Charges — Missouri courts impose severe penalties for heroin possession or trafficking, often including mandatory prison terms.


• Methamphetamine Charges — From possession to operating meth labs, meth charges often carry some of the harshest sentences under Missouri law.


• Prescription Drug Crimes — Fraudulent prescriptions, doctor shopping, or unlawful possession of medications like opioids or benzodiazepines.


• Paraphernalia Charges — Items like pipes, baggies, or syringes can lead to separate criminal charges.


• Federal Drug Offenses — Large-scale trafficking, distribution across state lines, or conspiracy cases that carry harsh federal penalties.

Our firm has helped many people in St. Louis, MO facing drug charges. We take each illegal drug case seriously and work with you to determine the best course of action to take. We dig deep, examine all the details of your case, and formulate a defense that is unique for your case. We will fight your charges every step of the way and will tirelessly work to get them reduced, if not dropped entirely. In addition, we will actively work with prosecuting attorneys to determine if alternative resolutions, such as drug treatment programs, are viable options to pursue in your case.

Sex Crimes Lawyer St. Louis, MO

Sex crime allegations carry some of the harshest legal and social consequences in Missouri. Even an accusation can damage your reputation, career, and relationships, while a conviction often means prison time, lifetime registration as a sex offender, and strict limits on where you can live or work. These cases are also highly technical, often hinging on issues of consent, forensic evidence, and constitutional rights.

Our attorneys at Combs Waterkotte understand both the sensitivity and the severity of these cases. We challenge unreliable testimony, expose investigative errors, and fight to protect your rights at every stage. We also represent clients in related matters such as orders of protection, custody concerns, and restrictions on freedom of movement.

Common sex crimes we defend in St. Louis include:

• Rape (First & Second Degree) — Felony charges involving non-consensual sexual intercourse; penalties can include decades in prison or even life sentences.


• Statutory Rape (First & Second Degree) — Sexual intercourse with a minor; punishable by lengthy prison terms and mandatory registration as a sex offender.


• Statutory Sodomy (First & Second Degree) — Sexual acts with minors under statutory age; Class A or B felonies with decades-long sentences.


• Child Molestation (First & Second Degree) — Criminal sexual contact with a child; penalties range from multi-year prison terms to life sentences depending on circumstances.


• Child Molestation (First & Second Degree) — Criminal sexual contact with a child; penalties range from multi-year prison terms to life sentences depending on circumstances.


• Child Pornography / Exploitation — Possession, production, or distribution of child sexual abuse material; severe felony charges under Missouri and federal law.


• Sexual Misconduct — Includes indecent exposure or sexual activity in public; penalties range from misdemeanors to felonies.


• Indecent Exposure — Exposing oneself in public or to a minor; often prosecuted as sexual misconduct.


• Prostitution / Solicitation — Engaging in or soliciting paid sexual activity; can result in jail time, fines, and long-term consequences if tied to trafficking or minors.


• Promoting Prostitution — Facilitating or profiting from prostitution; prosecuted as a felony with harsher penalties than solicitation.


• Sexual Abuse — Sexual contact without consent; felony-level charges carrying multi-year sentences.


• Stalking (Sexual Context) — Repeated unwanted contact or harassment with sexual intent; charges can escalate from misdemeanors to felonies.


• Human / Child Trafficking (Sex-Related) — Exploiting a person for commercial sex; carries extremely severe penalties under Missouri and federal law.

Read our Top 10 Sex Crime FAQs.

Weapons Offenses Lawyer St. Louis, MO

While Missouri is generally known as a gun-friendly state, weapons crimes are still taken extremely seriously and can increase the penalties of nearly any other alleged crime. Simply possessing a firearm under certain conditions can result in felony charges. When weapons are alleged to have been used in violent crimes, prosecutors will often push for mandatory prison sentences with no possibility of probation.

• Unlawful Use of a Weapon — Includes firing a gun recklessly, carrying a firearm while intoxicated, or displaying a weapon in a threatening manner; penalties range from misdemeanors to felonies.


• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm — Felony charges for individuals barred from possessing guns, including convicted felons or domestic violence offenders.


• Armed Criminal Action (ACA) — Adds 3 years to life in prison, served consecutively, if a weapon is used in the commission of another felony.


• Carrying a Concealed Weapon Without a Permit — Can lead to criminal charges and steep fines.


• Possession of a Defaced Firearm — Owning or selling a firearm with a removed or altered serial number is a felony offense.


• Federal Firearms Offenses — Includes gun trafficking, straw purchases, or possession of restricted weapons; penalties are often severe and prosecuted in federal court.

Theft & Property Crimes Lawyer St. Louis, MO

Theft and property crimes cover a wide range of offenses in Missouri, from shoplifting to burglary to large-scale fraud. A conviction can mean heavy fines, restitution, probation, or years in prison depending on the value of property involved and the nature of the crime. Even a misdemeanor theft charge can leave you with a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and reputation. Our criminal defense lawyers in St. Louis investigate the details of your case, challenge weak evidence, and work toward reductions, dismissals, or alternative outcomes like diversion programs.

Common theft and property charges we take on in St. Louis include:

• Stealing / Theft — Ranges from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the value of property or services taken.


• Shoplifting — Often charged as misdemeanor stealing, but penalties can escalate with prior offenses or higher-value property.


• Burglary — Entering a building unlawfully with intent to commit a crime; first- and second-degree burglary are felony charges.


• Robbery — Taking property by force or threat; considered a violent felony with long prison terms.


• Auto Theft / Tampering — Includes stealing or unlawfully operating a vehicle; frequently prosecuted as a felony.


• Arson — Setting fire to property or structures; penalties vary from Class E felonies to life imprisonment if serious injury results.


• Property Damage — Ranges from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the extent of the damage and whether explosives or fire are involved.


• Credit Card Fraud / Financial Theft — Using stolen cards or information for purchases; penalties increase with value and number of victims.


• Identity Theft — Illegally obtaining or using another person’s information for financial gain; felony charges that often carry steep prison terms.


• Receiving Stolen Property / Sale of Stolen Goods — Possessing or selling property known to be stolen; can be charged as misdemeanor or felony.

Juvenile Crimes Lawyer St. Louis, MO

Juvenile cases in Missouri are handled differently than adult criminal cases, but the consequences can still be life-changing. A juvenile adjudication can affect a child’s education, employment opportunities, and even future ability to serve in the military or attend college.

Our St. Louis juvenile crimes defense attorneys know that when a child is accused of a crime, the whole family feels the weight of it. We help by protecting your child’s future, preserving opportunities, and making sure one mistake doesn’t define the rest of their life. Our attorneys focus on defense strategies that keep kids in school, at home, and on the right path.

• Juvenile Theft & Shoplifting — Taking property without consent; penalties can include restitution, probation, or detention, but we fight for second chances.


• Assault & Fighting — School or neighborhood altercations can result in assault charges; we work to minimize consequences and keep records clean.


• Drug Possession & Distribution — Even small amounts of marijuana, pills, or other substances can jeopardize a child’s future; we push for treatment, not incarceration.


• Alcohol Offenses — Underage drinking, fake IDs, or juvenile DWIs can result in license suspension and fines; we fight to protect driving privileges and futures.


• Weapons Possession — Juveniles caught with firearms or other weapons face serious charges; we work to protect their record and prevent long-term harm.


• Sexual Offenses — Allegations like sexting, misconduct, or assault carry severe penalties; we ensure your child’s rights are protected and that the law isn’t applied unfairly.


• Vandalism & Property Damage — Graffiti, property destruction, or arson can bring steep restitution and penalties; we fight to keep kids out of detention.


• Truancy & Status Offenses — Repeated truancy, running away, or curfew violations can lead to court supervision; we help families find solutions instead of punishments.

Our goal in every juvenile case is simple: protect your child’s record, preserve their future opportunities, and guide them back onto the right path. We stand with families during their most stressful moments, offering both strong legal defense and compassionate support.

Federal Crimes Lawyer St. Louis, MO

Federal charges are among the most serious cases we handle. Unlike state prosecutions, federal cases involve U.S. Attorneys, federal investigators, and mandatory sentencing guidelines. A conviction can mean years—or even decades—in federal prison, along with massive fines and life-long consequences. These cases require a defense team that understands both the law and the complex federal system.

Our St. Louis defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte have experience defending clients in federal court, including pre-indictment investigations, negotiations with prosecutors, and trial work. We work quickly to protect your rights, challenge the government’s evidence, and pursue the best possible resolution.

Examples of federal cases we handle include:

• Federal Drug Charges
• Federal Weapons & Firearm Offenses
• Federal Bank Fraud
• Federal Check & Credit Card Fraud
• Federal Child Exploitation & Pornography
• Federal Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances
• Federal Conspiracy to Commit Murder
• Federal Conspiracy
• Federal Drug Trafficking
• Federal Embezzlement
• Federal Espionage & National Security Violations
• Federal Hate Crimes
• Federal Felonies
• Federal Exploitation of a Child
• Federal Human Trafficking
• Federal Identity Theft & Fraud
• Federal Immigration Fraud
• Federal Kidnapping
• Federal Internet, Computer & Cyber Crimes
• Federal Internet Fraud
• Federal Mail Fraud
• Federal Misdemeanors
• Federal Money Laundering
• Federal RICO Charges
• Federal Possession of Child Pornography
• Federal Murder
• Federal Securities & Investment Fraud
• Federal Sex Crimes
• Federal Sexual Exploitation of a Child
• Federal White Collar Crimes
• Federal Terrorism Crimes
• Federal Tax Evasion & Fraud
• Federal Wire Fraud

Federal sentencing is complex. It depends on mandatory minimums, the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, enhancements, and prior criminal history — which makes having a skilled St. Louis federal crimes defense team in your team a must.

Common Criminal Defense Strategies in St. Louis

Being charged with a crime does not mean you are guilty. In fact, prosecutors must prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt, and there are many ways to challenge their claims and evidence. Here's some of the proven defense strategies the Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorneys use:

• Alibi: Proves you were somewhere else when the crime occurred, making it impossible for you to be responsible. We can essentially prove your absence from the crime scene through evidence like location data or witness testimony.


• Battered Spouse Syndrome: We argue that your use of force was justified due to your traumatic experiences. Due to an existence of a pattern of abuse, you acted out of a reasonable belief of danger.


• Castle Doctrine: Allows you to use to use force, including deadly force, against an intruder in your home without a duty to retreat, essentially stating that a "a man's home is his castle."


• Consent: We prove that the alleged victim willingly agreed to the actions that form the basis of the criminal charge. This defense is often used in assault and sex crimes.


• Defense of Others: Involves proving you are justified in using reasonable force to protect someone else from imminent harm.


• Duress: Claims you committed a crime because you were forced to do so under immediate threat of serious harm or death, leaving no other reasonable alternative but to commit the crime. This defense acknowledges that the act was illegal but argues that you should not be held accountable due to the coercive circumstances.


• Entrapment: Occurs when you're induced by law enforcement to commit a crime you would not have otherwise committed.


• Lack of Intent: Argues the absence of the necessary mental state to commit the crime, such as accidental actions.


• Miranda Rights: Challenges the admissibility of evidence or statements when you were not informed of your rights during arrest.


• Necessity: Justifies your actions as necessary to prevent a greater harm in an emergency situation. This defense demonstrates that were no other viable options to avoid the harm besides committing the illegal act.


• Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity: You admit to committing the crime, but we argue that you were mentally ill at the time and therefore lacked the capacity to understand the wrongfulness of your actions. The focus here is on your mental condition at the moment of the crime, not your current or past state.


• Self-Defense: Justifies the use of reasonable force to protect yourself from imminent harm. This is a common defense is assault, homicide, and other violent crimes.


• Stand Your Ground: Extends the right to use force without retreating beyond the home, applicable in any location where you feel threatened.

Areas Our St. Louis Criminal Defense Attorneys Serve:

We serve clients throughout the entire state of Missouri:

• Andrew County, MO
• Atchison County, MO
• Audrain County, MO
• Barry County, MO
• Barton County, MO
• Bates County, MO
• Bollinger County, MO
• Boone County, MO
• Buchanan County, MO
• Butler County, MO
• Caldwell County, MO
• Callaway County, MO
• Camden County, MO
• Cape Girardeau County, MO
• Carroll County, MO
• Cass County, MO
• Chariton County, MO
• Christian County, MO
• Clark County, MO
• Clay County, MO
• Clinton County, MO
• Cole County, MO
• Cooper County, MO
• Crawford County, MO
• Dade County, MO
• Dallas County, MO
• Daviess County, MO
• DeKalb County, MO
• Dent County, MO
• Dunklin County, MO
• Franklin County, MO
• Gasconade County, MO
• Gentry County, MO
• Greene County, MO
• Grundy County, MO
• Harrison County, MO
• Henry County, MO
• Holt County, MO
• Howard County, MO
• Howell County, MO
• Jackson County, MO
• Jasper County, MO
• Jefferson County, MO
• Johnson County, MO
• Laclede County, MO
• Lafayette County, MO
• Lawrence County, MO
• Lewis County, MO
• Lincoln County, MO
• Linn County, MO
• Livingston County, MO
• Macon County, MO
• Madison County, MO
• Maries County, MO
• Marion County, MO
• McDonald County, MO
• Miller County, MO
• Mississippi County, MO
• Moniteau County, MO
• Monroe County, MO
• Montgomery County, MO
• Morgan County, MO
• New Madrid County, MO
• Newton County, MO
• Nodaway County, MO
• Osage County, MO
• Pemiscot County, MO
• Perry County, MO
• Pettis County, MO
• Phelps County, MO
• Pike County, MO
• Polk County, MO
• Pulaski County, MO
• Putnam County, MO
• Ralls County, MO
• Randolph County, MO
• Ray County, MO
• Ripley County, MO
• Saline County, MO
• Scotland County, MO
• Scott County, MO
• Shelby County, MO
• St. Charles County, MO
• St. Francois County, MO
• St. Louis County, MO
• Ste. Genevieve County, MO
• Stone County, MO
• Stoddard County, MO
• Taney County, MO
• Texas County, MO
• Vernon County, MO
• Warren County, MO
• Washington County, MO
• Wayne County, MO
• Webster County, MO
• Worth County, MO
• Wright County, MO