Criminal Defense Attorney St. Louis, MO

Criminal defense attorney in St. Louis, MO. Being accused of a crime is one of the most serious challenges you can face — but with the right legal team, it’s one you can overcome. A dedicated Combs Waterkotte St. Louis, MO criminal defense attorney will fight for your rights, protect your freedom, and work relentlessly to secure the best outcome possible.

At Combs Waterkotte, we believe every client deserves a powerful defense and a fair chance to rebuild their life. Our St. Louis, MO criminal defense lawyers handle everything from misdemeanors and felonies to complex federal cases. We take a proactive, strategic approach—building your case with precision, compassion, and determination.

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 St. Louis, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation with a trusted criminal defense attorney.

What You’ll Learn on This Page

Facing criminal charges in St. Louis, 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 St. Louis, MO and throughout Missouri, including felony and misdemeanor laws, federal prosecution, sentencing, and how the team at Combs Waterkotte fights to protect your future.

Read on to learn:

• What to do right after being arrested in St. Louis, MO
• The key differences between state and federal criminal charges
• The penalties for St. Louis, MO felonies and misdemeanors
• Our proven defense strategies for DUI, drug, assault, fraud, and violent crime cases
• Why thousands across Missouri trust our firm when their future is on the line
• How our experience and strategy can help you secure the best possible outcome in St. Louis, MO.

Steps to Take After an Arrest in St. Louis, MO

Being arrested can be frightening and confusing—especially if it’s your first time dealing with the St. Louis, 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 St. Louis, 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 St. Louis, 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: Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent

The U.S. Constitution protects your right to remain silent, and it’s one of your most powerful legal tools. After confirming your identity, you are under no obligation to answer questions about the alleged offense. Politely state: “I am exercising my right to remain silent and would like to speak with my attorney.” Do not attempt to explain or defend yourself; even innocent remarks can be misinterpreted and used against you in court.

Step 3: Ask for a St. Louis, MO Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately

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 St. Louis, MO criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte involved early means:

• Police and investigators must communicate through your attorney
• We can ensure your rights are protected from the start
• Our legal team can start building your defense and securing evidence right away in St. Louis, MO
• We’re available 24/7 to respond to emergencies anywhere in St. Louis, MO.

Step 4: Avoid Discussing Your St. Louis, MO Case with Anyone

Silence is protection. Avoid talking about your arrest with anyone, even people you trust, and stay off social media. Texts, DMs, and posts can be taken out of context and used against you. Only discuss your situation with your attorney or legal team at Combs Waterkotte, where your information stays completely confidential.

Step 5: Don’t Consent to Searches Without a Warrant

If law enforcement asks to search your St. Louis, MO home, vehicle, or phone, you are under no obligation to agree. Unless officers present a valid warrant signed by a judge, you have the legal right to refuse. Calmly state, “I do not consent to a search.” Exercising this right protects you from unlawful or overreaching police actions.

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: Secure Bail or Release

After being processed at a detention center in St. Louis, MO, your next goal is getting home as soon as possible. Depending on your charges, you might qualify for bail or release on recognizance. The St. Louis, MO criminal defense team at Combs Waterkotte can help:

• File motions to lower your bond amount
• Advocate for release pending trial
• Work with bail bondsmen to secure your freedom quickly
• 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.

When you choose a Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney in the St. Louis, MO area, you aren’t just choosing a leading criminal defense attorney in St. Louis, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with trustworthy criminal defense attorneys, our staff is available 24/7 and provides experience and expertise in the following areas for St. Louis, MO residents:

• Criminal Defense Lawyer with Payment Plans

A Full-Service St. Louis, MO Criminal Defense Firm

At Combs Waterkotte, our experienced St. Louis, MO criminal defense attorneys represent clients facing every type of criminal charge—from minor traffic violations and misdemeanors to the most serious felony and federal cases.

Our St. Louis, 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

St. Louis, MO Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

Federal charges are among the most serious a person can face. Unlike state prosecutions, federal cases involve powerful government agencies, lengthy investigations, and prosecutors who win more than 90% of their cases, according to Pew Research.

The federal criminal defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte know exactly how to level the playing field. Our St. Louis, 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

We understand that federal prosecutors are driven to win. They often push for plea bargains that result in lengthy prison sentences and lifelong records. Our firm’s approach is different—we challenge the evidence, expose procedural errors, and fight to have charges dismissed or reduced before they ever reach a plea stage.

Learn more about how we handle St. Louis, MO federal criminal cases, what makes them unique, and how they are different from state cases.

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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.

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Understanding St. Louis Criminal Penalties and Your Rights Under Missouri Law

Even a seemingly minor conviction in St. Louis, 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.

Under Missouri law, convicted felons are prohibited from owning guns, serving on juries, or holding public office. They are also often required to disclose their criminal history on employment and housing applications, making it much harder to move forward after a conviction.

However, there is hope. Missouri law provides ways to restore your rights, including expungement, pardon, or record sealing. The St. Louis, MO attorneys at Combs Waterkotte can help you explore your post-conviction options and start reclaiming your freedom.

Felony Offense Levels and Sentencing in St. Louis, 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 — 5 to 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 — up to 4 years in prison

Factors like prior offenses, use of weapons, or crimes motivated by bias can increase the severity of a charge and the sentence you face. The good news is that a knowledgeable St. Louis, MO criminal defense lawyer can often step in early to negotiate reduced charges, alternative sentencing options, or even a complete dismissal — helping you protect your record and your future.

Understanding Misdemeanor Charges in St. Louis, MO

Not all criminal charges are felonies, but even a misdemeanor in Missouri can have serious consequences if it’s not properly addressed. Misdemeanors are classified into four categories, each with different potential penalties:

• Class A Misdemeanor — Up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of 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 or a fine of 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 St. Louis, 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 St. Louis, MO

Not all St. Louis, MO criminal defense lawyers are created equal. Our legal team’s approach to defense is built on client focus, trial readiness, unmatched resources, and over six decades of combined expertise:

• Client-Focused Representation: We’re always available when you need us in St. Louis, MO—day or night. Our team takes time to understand your concerns, explain your options, and guide you every step of the way. You’ll never feel left in the dark about your case.
• Aggressive, Trial-Ready Defense: We prepare every St. Louis, MO case as though it will go before a judge, giving us leverage to secure better outcomes in negotiations. Prosecutors know which attorneys are prepared to go to trial and which aren’t.
• Extensive Resources: We bring in the right resources, whether it’s witnesses, forensic experts, or investigators, to challenge the state’s evidence and expose weaknesses in their case.
• Local Knowledge & Experience in St. Louis. MO: With decades of combined courtroom experience in St. Louis, MO and across Missouri, our criminal defense attorneys know the judges, prosecutors, and unique procedures in local courts—and how to use that knowledge to your advantage.

When your future is at stake, you deserve a St. Louis, MO defense team that’s experienced, aggressive, and completely committed to protecting your freedom.

Criminal Defense FAQs for St. Louis, MO

What should I do first if I’m arrested in St. Louis, MO?

The most important thing is to stay calm and say nothing until you speak with a lawyer. Anything you say could be used against you. Call (314) 900-HELP or contact Combs Waterkotte immediately—our team can guide you through what to expect, handle communications with law enforcement, and start building your defense from day one.

What’s the difference between state and federal 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 St. Louis, MO?

Yes. Depending on your case, our St. Louis, 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 conviction stay on my record permanently?

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 St. Louis, MO criminal defense attorneys can help you find out if you qualify and take steps to restore your reputation.

What if I’ve been charged with a felony but have no prior offenses?

Having a clean record can work in your favor. Courts often view a lack of prior convictions as a mitigating factor, which can lead to reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or even dismissal. With skilled representation from a St. Louis, MO criminal defense attorney, you have a far greater chance of avoiding severe penalties.

Can Combs Waterkotte help if I already pled guilty in St. Louis, MO?

Yes. In many cases, we can file post-conviction motions, appeals, or petitions for sentence reduction. Contact us immediately—time limits apply.

Take Control of Your Future. Call Combs Waterkotte to Hire Your St. Louis, MO Criminal Defense Attorney Now.

The St. Louis, MO criminal defense attorney you choose could determine your entire future. Don’t leave that to chance. While public defenders are often overwhelmed and other attorneys might shy away from trial, we at Combs Waterkotte fight every case as if your freedom depends on it—because it does.

Our clients are never just case numbers. You’ll have direct access to your St. Louis, MO criminal defense lawyer 24/7, no matter the hour, day, or circumstance.

Don’t take chances with your freedom. Make Combs Waterkotte your first call. Contact us today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a no-obligation case evaluation. The sooner we start, the stronger your defense will be.