Criminal defense lawyers in Lathrop, MO. If you’ve been arrested, charged, or questioned in connection with a crime in or around Lathrop, MO, your freedom and future are on the line. Whether you’re staring at minor misdemeanor charges or serious felony accusations, having skilled legal representation is crucial. Don’t take chances with your Lathrop, MO case—choose a team that knows how to protect your rights.
Contact the trustworthy Lathrop, MO criminal defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte immediately by calling (314) 900-HELP or reaching out online to schedule a free, confidential consultation in Lathrop, MO. With over 60 years of combined experience and more than 10,000 successful cases handled in Lathrop and across Missouri, we have the expertise to fight for you.
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 …
What Do Lathrop, MO Criminal Defense Lawyers Do?
Criminal defense lawyers specialize in defending individuals and organizations in and around Lathrop, MO charged with criminal offenses. At Combs Waterkotte, they have multifaceted roles involving:
- Case Analysis in Lathrop, MO: Examining evidence, police reports, and witnesses testimonies to gain a full understanding of the charges and circumstances.
- Strategic Defense Planning: Creating a tailored approach to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and support your innocence or mitigate penalties in Lathrop, MO.
- Courtroom Representation: Arguing motions, cross-examining witnesses, and presenting your defense to the judge or jury.
- Securing Favorable Plea Agreements: Working with prosecutors to reduce charges, minimize sentences, or explore alternative penalties in Lathrop, MO.

Areas of Expertise For the Combs Waterkotte Lathrop, MO Criminal Defense Lawyers
The Combs Waterkotte criminal defense lawyers handle a wide range of cases throughout the Lathrop, MO area, including but not limited to:
The Role of Lathrop, MO Criminal Defense Lawyers in Your Case
A criminal charge doesn’t have to derail your life in Lathrop, MO. The Combs Waterkotte criminal defense lawyers are committed to turning things around for clients facing tough situations. Leveraging decades of experience and a meticulous client-focused approach, we build comprehensive defenses while staying ready to take your case to trial if needed. Our team has the tools and resources to deliver impactful results.
The sooner you hire our Lathrop, MO criminal defense lawyers, the more opportunities they have to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build your defense. Also, our skilled defense attorneys in Lathrop, MO can avoid conviction or negotiate for reduced charges or alternative options by identifying procedural errors, question the validity of any evidence, or expose flaws in the prosecution’s case, potentially leading to dismissal or acquittal.
Finding the Best Lathrop, MO Criminal Defense Lawyers
When searching for a Lathrop, MO criminal defense lawyer, consider the following factors to make sure you make the right choice:
- Proven Expertise: Look for criminal defense lawyers with a proven track record in cases similar to yours.
- Local Knowledge: Laws and courtroom procedures differ by jurisdiction. A criminal defense lawyer well-versed in the legal landscape of Lathrop, MO can provide an edge. An attorney familiar with local courts and prosecutors will have a decisive advantage.
- Strong Reputation: Evaluate online reviews, client testimonials, and peer endorsements to gauge the lawyer’s track record and success rate.
- Effective Communication: Your lawyer should be approachable, responsive, and able to clearly explain legal jargon and strategies in plain language.
- Cost Clarity: Make sure the criminal defense lawyer provides a clear explanation of costs upfront so there are no surprises later.
Why Hiring a Lathrop, MO Criminal Defense Lawyer is Critical
Facing criminal charges in Lathrop, MO is an overwhelming experience, but having the right legal support can make all the difference. The Combs Waterkotte Lathrop, MO criminal defense lawyers are dedicated to proving top-tier representation for every client in Missouri. Here’s why hiring a defense attorney is critical in Lathrop, MO:
- Knowledge of Criminal Law in Lathrop, MO:
Criminal defense lawyers are well-versed in Missouri Revised Statutes, precedents, and procedural rules. Their expertise ensures that no legal detail is overlooked or downplayed, which could be critical to your defense. - Making Sure Your Rights are Respected:
Your constitutional rights are paramount. A defense attorney will challenge violations and make sure law enforcement acts within legal bounds. - Strategic Case Analysis:
A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney in Lathrop, MO will access every aspect of your case, exposing weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and building a customized defense strategy. - Negotiation Expertise:
Plea agreements are common in Lathrop, MO criminal cases. An adept defense attorney can negotiate with prosecutors to secure the best possible terms, whether it’s reduced charges or alternative sentencing. - Preparedness for Trial:
If your case goes to trial, having a relentless litigator by your side is invaluable in Lathrop, MO. They’ll present evidence, challenge the prosecution, and advocate for your acquittal.

When you choose Combs Waterkotte’s criminal defense lawyers in or around Lathrop, MO, you’re not just choosing a leading criminal defense attorney in and around Lathrop, MO – you’re safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Lathrop and beyond:
The High Stakes of Facing Charges Without a Lathrop, MO Criminal Defense Lawyer
The risks of forgoing a Lathrop, MO criminal defense lawyer are far-reaching. Without professional guidance, you could unintentionally incriminate yourself, miss procedural deadlines, and fail to mount a proper defense. Judges won’t offer leniency due to inexperience, and negotiating favorable plea agreements without a lawyer’s expertise is an uphill battle. Courts are less likely to consider mitigating factors, increasing your chances of facing harsher penalties. Even minor convictions can create lasting consequences for your future, from diminished career opportunities to social stigma and financial hardships.
Act Now in Lathrop, MO: Speak With the Premier Criminal Defense Lawyers at Combs Waterkotte
Facing criminal charges in Lathrop, MO can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. A skilled criminal defense lawyer from Combs Waterkotte can protect your rights, build a strong defense, and help you get the best possible outcome for your case. Every moment counts in Lathrop, MO—taking action now could be the difference between freedom and a life-altering setback.
Call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a free case review with one of Lathrop, MO’s top criminal defense lawyers. Let’s start building your defense today.

