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Defense Attorney

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Posted by Christopher Combs on January 30, 2024

Defense Attorney in St. Louis, Missouri. When you’re accused of a crime, every second counts. Fear, confusion, and stress are natural reactions, but trying to ignore the charges will only make the situation worse. A skilled St. Louis defense attorney can be the difference between losing everything and protecting your freedom, reputation, and future. At Combs Waterkotte, we deliver aggressive, trial-tested representation for individuals facing criminal charges throughout the Greater St. Louis area and across Missouri.

If you are under investigation or have been charged with a crime, don’t wait until it’s too late. The prosecution is already building its case against you. Our team of experienced defense attorneys will immediately go to work to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and pursue the best possible outcome. Call (314) 900-HELP today or contact us online to schedule a free, confidential consultation.


Article Summary

Being charged with a crime in St. Louis can feel overwhelming. But, you don’t have to face the legal system alone. This page explains the critical role a skilled St. Louis defense attorney plays in protecting your rights, minimizing the consequences, and guiding you through every stage of the criminal process. We covered the types of charges Combs Waterkotte handles, from drug offenses and DWIs to violent crimes and white-collar cases, as well as the steps involved from arrest to trial. Our team brings decades of combined experience, a client-centered approach, and proven courtroom success to every case we take. Whether your goal is dismissal, reduced charges, or an acquittal, we fight tirelessly for the best possible outcome. If you are facing criminal charges in St. Louis, now is the time to act.


Top Defense Attorney St. Louis, Missouri | Combs Waterkotte Law

The Role of Your St. Louis Defense Attorney

As your defense attorney in St. Louis, our team is your shield against the full power of the criminal justice system. Our job is to ensure that the police, prosecutors, and courts play by the rules and that your constitutional rights are protected at every stage, from the moment you’re accused to the final resolution of your case. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor, felony, or federal charge, we fight to keep you out of jail and protect your future.

Our representation is comprehensive. We investigate the facts, interview witnesses, consult with experts, negotiate with prosecutors, and prepare for trial when necessary. This approach not only positions you for the strongest defense but also gives you leverage in plea negotiations and sentencing hearings. Your case is never just a file number to us—it’s your life, and we take that seriously.

Why Hire a Defense Attorney in St. Louis?

Attempting to represent yourself or relying on an overworked public defender can leave you vulnerable to harsh penalties. An experienced St. Louis defense attorney gives you a fighting chance. Here’s what we do for you:

  • Protect Your Rights: We challenge illegal searches, coerced confessions, and procedural violations to make sure evidence used against you is admissible.
  • Investigate the Case: We dig deeper than the prosecution, finding witnesses, uncovering exculpatory evidence, and exposing flaws in the state’s case.
  • Navigate the Process: Our experienced St. Louis defense attorney guides you through arraignments, hearings, motions, and trial preparation, so you know what to expect at every step.
  • Provide Skilled Counsel: You get clear explanations of the charges, potential penalties, and available defenses so you can make informed decisions.
  • Negotiate Outcomes: We seek charge reductions, dismissals, or alternative sentences like probation, drug court, or community service when appropriate.
  • Fight in Court: If your case goes to trial, we build a strong defense strategy designed to create reasonable doubt and win an acquittal.
  • Minimize Long-Term Damage: We work to protect your job, family, and reputation, and can assist with record expungement or sealing where possible.
  • Provide Peace of Mind: Having a skilled legal team in your corner gives you confidence and reduces the anxiety of facing criminal charges.

Types of Criminal Charges We Defend in St. Louis

At Combs Waterkotte, we handle virtually every type of criminal case. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or serious felony, we have the experience and resources to defend you effectively:

St. Louis Drug Charges

From simple possession to trafficking, we challenge illegal searches, fight to suppress evidence, and pursue reduced charges or alternative sentencing programs like drug court.

DWI/DUI in St. Louis

A DWI conviction can cost you your license, your job, and even your freedom. We investigate traffic stops, breathalyzer accuracy, and police procedures to protect your rights and your ability to drive.

Gun & Weapons Charges in the St. Louis Area

Firearm offenses in Missouri can be complex. We defend against allegations of unlawful possession, brandishing, concealed carry violations, and use of a weapon during a crime.

St. Louis Violent Crimes

Charges like assault, homicide, and robbery carry severe penalties. We analyze witness credibility, forensic evidence, and self-defense claims to protect your freedom.

Sex Crimes in St. Louis

Allegations of sexual assault, exploitation, or child pornography can destroy your reputation even before trial. We fight aggressively to challenge the evidence, protect your rights, and avoid sex offender registration where possible.

Theft & White-Collar Crimes St. Louis

From shoplifting to embezzlement or identity theft, we defend against property crimes that threaten your record, career, and future opportunities.

Criminal Defense Lawyer St. Louis | Protect Your Rights

A Step-by-Step Guide to the Criminal Case Process in St. Louis

One of the most stressful parts of facing criminal charges is not knowing what happens next. At Combs Waterkotte, we believe knowledge is power—and that means helping you understand every stage of the process. Here’s what to expect when you’re facing criminal charges in St. Louis or anywhere in Missouri:

Step 1: Investigation

Most cases begin with an investigation, sometimes long before you know you’re a suspect. Police may gather evidence, interview witnesses, or conduct surveillance. If federal authorities are involved, this phase can last months or even years. During this stage, we can intervene early to protect your rights, prevent overreach, and in some cases stop charges from ever being filed.

Step 2: Arrest & Booking

If police believe they have probable cause, they will arrest you. You’ll be transported to the local police department or jail, fingerprinted, photographed, and formally booked. This is often the most frightening step for clients, but having a skilled St. Louis defense attorney involved as soon as possible can ensure you don’t say anything that harms your defense.

Step 3: Bail & Bond Hearing

In many cases, you have the right to post bail to secure your release until trial. The judge sets the amount based on the severity of the charges, your criminal history, and flight risk. We can argue for reduced bail, personal recognizance release, or favorable bond conditions so you can return home and continue working while your case moves forward.

Step 4: Arraignment

This is your first formal court appearance, where you are informed of the charges against you and asked to enter a plea: guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Having legal representation at this point is critical—we will enter a plea on your behalf, advise you on next steps, and start positioning your case for success.

Step 5: Discovery Phase

Discovery is the process where the prosecution must share its evidence with your defense team. This can include police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, forensic results, and more. We thoroughly review every piece of evidence, looking for inconsistencies, constitutional violations, and opportunities to file motions to suppress evidence.

Step 6: Pretrial Motions

Pretrial motions can make or break a case. We may file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, exclude witness testimony, or even dismiss charges entirely if your constitutional rights were violated. Winning pretrial motions can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case, sometimes resulting in a full dismissal before trial.

Step 7: Plea Negotiations

Not every case goes to trial. If it’s in your best interest, we will negotiate aggressively with prosecutors to reduce charges, minimize penalties, or secure alternatives like probation, diversion programs, or community service. Our trial-ready reputation often helps us achieve better offers because prosecutors know we’re not afraid to fight in court.

Step 8: Trial

If negotiations don’t result in a favorable resolution, your case proceeds to trial. Depending on the circumstances, you may have a bench trial (before a judge) or a jury trial. Our defense team meticulously prepares witnesses, cross-examines the prosecution’s case, and presents a compelling defense designed to create reasonable doubt and secure an acquittal.

Step 9: Sentencing

If you are convicted or plead guilty, the next step is sentencing. This is where mitigation matters, we present evidence of your good character, employment, family responsibilities, or rehabilitation efforts to persuade the judge to impose the lightest possible penalty.

Step 10: Appeals & Post-Conviction Relief

Your fight doesn’t always end with sentencing. We can file appeals, seek sentence reductions, request expungements, or pursue post-conviction relief to clear your record. Our defense attorneys remain committed to protecting your rights even after the verdict.

Key Takeaway: Understanding the process helps you make informed decisions and stay one step ahead of the prosecution. The earlier you involve a St. Louis defense attorney, the more opportunities you have to shape the outcome in your favor.

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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.










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    Why Hire Combs Waterkotte as Your Defense Attorney in St. Louis?

    When your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line, the St. Louis defense attorney you choose can make the difference between moving on with your life and living with the weight of a criminal conviction. Combs Waterkotte is more than a law firm. We are a team of relentless advocates who stand with you from the moment you call us until your case is resolved.

    Here’s why St. Louis residents trust us to defend their most serious criminal cases:

    • Client-Centered Approach: You’re never just another case number to us. We listen to your story, explain your options in plain language, and work with you to build a defense that matches your goals.
    • Proven Trial Experience: Our attorneys are in court regularly and have earned a reputation as fearless litigators who won’t hesitate to take a case to trial if it’s in your best interest.
    • Comprehensive Resources: From investigators and forensic experts to cutting-edge technology, we bring every resource necessary to level the playing field against the government.
    • Strategic Negotiation: Because prosecutors know we are trial-ready, we have leverage to secure better plea deals, charge reductions, and alternative sentencing options.
    • Results That Matter: Our track record speaks for itself—dismissals, acquittals, and reduced sentences in some of the toughest cases in Missouri.
    • Deep Local Knowledge: We know the St. Louis courts, judges, and prosecutors. This insight allows us to anticipate challenges, identify opportunities, and craft the most effective strategies.
    • 24/7 Support: Criminal charges don’t keep business hours. Neither do we. Our team is available when you need us most, even in emergencies.

    Bottom Line: When you choose Combs Waterkotte, you get a defense team that fights as hard for your case as they would for their own family. Call (314) 900-HELP now or request a free consultation and put our experience to work for you today.


    Frequently Asked Questions our St. Louis Defense Attorneys Hear

    What should I look for when hiring a defense attorney?

    Choose a lawyer with proven courtroom experience, excellent communication skills, and a strong track record of getting charges reduced or dismissed. Your attorney should be responsive and make you feel confident about your defense strategy.

    How much does a St. Louis defense attorney cost?

    The cost of legal representation from a qualified St. Louis criminal defense attorney depends on a number of factors, such as the complexity of your case, the attorney’s level of experience, and whether it goes to trial. We offer transparent fee structures and start with a free consultation so you can make an informed decision about your legal representation.

    Can a defense attorney keep me out of jail?

    While no lawyer can promise a specific outcome, experienced attorneys like Combs Waterkotte can negotiate plea deals, argue for probation or diversion programs, and build strong defenses that may lead to acquittals or dismissals.


    Contact a St. Louis Defense Attorney Today

    If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation, time is critical. The sooner you involve an experienced defense attorney in St. Louis, the more options you have to protect your freedom. At Combs Waterkotte, we are relentless advocates for our clients, standing by your side from day one until your case is resolved.

    Call (314) 900-HELP or contact us online today for a free, no-obligation case review and take the first step toward protecting your rights and future.

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