Criminal lawyer in Independence, MO. Are you staring down criminal charges in Independence, MO or anywhere in Missouri and in need of an experienced and skilled legal team to safeguard your rights and fight for your freedom? Look no further. The adept criminal lawyers at Combs Waterkotte, detailed in various legal aspects, are committed to delivering exceptional legal representation tailored specifically to your unique case.
If you are grappling with criminal charges in Independence, give us a call as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a complimentary, obligation-free consultation. Our legal experts will delve into the specifics of your case and provide legal guidance regarding next steps. We recognize that good people find themselves in bad situations throughout the Independence, MO area, and we will do whatever it takes to help.
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 …
Cases Our Independence, MO Criminal Lawyer Takes
Our team of Independence, MO criminal lawyers has experience getting positive client outcomes in a variety of cases, from relatively minor misdemeanor infractions to the most serious charges such as murder and homicide. Some of the cases we see most often in the Independence, MO area include:
- Violent Crimes
- Felonies
- Theft/Larceny
- DWI/DUI
- Probation Violation
- Drug Charges
- Child Abuse, Neglect or Abandonment
- Gun Charges
- Sex Crimes
- Juvenile Crimes

How a Independence, MO Criminal Lawyer Can Help
A Combs Waterkotte criminal lawyer can help your Independence, MO case in the following ways:
Safeguard Your Rights
Law enforcement goes to great lengths to obtain the evidence needed for a conviction, no matter the situation. After all, if they don’t have a “criminal,” they don’t have a crime. A criminal lawyer will stand by your side and make sure law enforcement in Independence, MO or elsewhere in Missouri does not violate:
- Your Fourth Amendment right against illegal search and seizure
- Your Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination
- Your Sixth Amendment right to an attorney
Delay or Stop Charges From Being Filed
After an arrest, a skilled criminal lawyer can engage with the prosecution in Independence, MO or elsewhere in Missouri. By presenting compelling evidence supporting your version of events, we aim to lessen the severity of charges, or, in some cases, prevent charges from being filed altogether. Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Conduct a Comprehensive Investigation
Our criminal lawyer in Independence, MO will conduct a thorough investigation, one that exceeds that of law enforcement’s, in an effort to secure physical evidence and witnesses that are favorable to your case. We’ll additionally examine how the evidence brought against you was gathered, and if there were any procedural errors or if there are holes in the prosecution’s case.
Offer Expert Legal Counsel
At Combs Waterkotte, our criminal lawyers are dedicated to transparency and honesty. We provide candid insights into the potential outcomes of your case, given the evidence and charges. Ultimately, we provide recommendations based on what we believe is in your best interest, allowing you to make informed decisions.
Our skilled attorneys ensure that the residents of Independence, MO get full, effective legal representation in any situation. In addition to providing an award-winning criminal lawyer throughout the Independence, MO area, our firm is experienced in may types of cases, like:

Why Opt For the Combs Waterkotte Team as Your Criminal Lawyers in Independence, MO?
Legal representation is essential to ensure that your rights are safeguarded throughout the criminal justice process, regardless of the severity of your charges or where they took place in the Independence, MO or surrounding areas. Our criminal defense team has:
- Proven Track Record: The Combs Waterkotte criminal lawyers boast a proven track record of successfully handling a wide range of criminal cases in Independence, MO and across Missouri. Our achievements range from dismissals and reduced charges to outright acquittals. That is our mission, no matter the severity of your charges. Give us a call right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
- Legal Expertise: With over 40 years of combined experience in criminal defense, our lawyers possess extensive knowledge of local laws and court procedures. This expertise extends to municipalities across the Independence, MO area and other jurisdictions throughout Missouri. We leverage this insight to construct robust defense strategies and navigate the intricacies of your case.
- Aggressive Defense: When your freedom and future are at stake, you need a Independence, MO legal team that will aggressively fight on your behalf. Our criminal lawyers are renowned for their tenacity, both in and out of the courtroom, challenging evidence, questioning witnesses, and advocating aggressively for your rights.
- Client-Centered Approach: Recognizing the uniqueness of each case in and around Independence, MO, we prioritize listening to your perspective. Our client-centered approach ensures that our legal strategies are tailored to your unique circumstances and objectives.
Jackson County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Jackson County and Missouri.
What You Should Do If Charged With a Crime in Independence, MO
If you find yourself facing criminal charges in Independence, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, it is crucial to take immediate and strategic steps to safeguard your rights and build a strong defense. Here are essential actions:
- Remain Calm – Stay composed and avoid making impulsive decisions. Emotional reactions can complicate the legal process and potentially lead to further charges.
- Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent – Refrain from making any statements to law enforcement without an attorney present. You have the right to remain silent, and anything you say can – and will be – used against you.
- Request a Criminal Defense Lawyer – Assert your right to legal representation. A recent study found that prosecutors are more likely to offer a favorable deal to a private criminal lawyer than to a public defender. Call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP. Having legal representation in Independence, MO is crucial when navigating the criminal justice system.
- Avoid Self-Incrimination – Refrain from discussing the specifics of your case with anyone other than your criminal defense attorney. This caution extends to conversations on social media, as statements made online can be used against you.
- Fully Comprehend Your Charges – Gain a clear and concise understanding of the criminal charges against you. Your Independence, MO Combs Waterkotte criminal lawyer will explain the specific allegations, possible consequences, and the legal options available.
- Investigate Defense Strategies – We always listen to your side of the story. Collaborating with you, we explore potential defense strategies, which may involve challenging evidence, questioning procedures, or negotiating plea deals. Our commitment is unwaveringly focused on your best interests.

Schedule a Consultation Now With an Award-Winning Independence, MO Criminal Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte
Don’t navigate the complexities of the local Independence, MO legal system alone. The Combs Waterkotte criminal lawyers are ready to provide the exact, strong legal representation you need.
Give us a call right now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a free, no-obligation consultation for your criminal charges in Independence, MO.

