The Importance of Hiring a Skilled Defense Attorney inMaries County, MO
Maries County, MO Defense Attorney. When you’re accused of a crime, it’s natural to panic, feel hopeless or be tempted to run and avoid the issue for as long as you can. It’s scary, and the consequences — regardless of your actual guilt — can be significant. However, all is not lost. Having a defense attorney represent you can improve your chances of a positive outcome and provide you with support and guidance during the legal proceedings.
In case you are charged with a criminal offense, hiring a skilled defense attorney can be one of the most significant decisions you make. You not only need a legal expert to navigate your case and ensure laws are followed on both sides of the courtroom, but you deserve someone in your corner, an attorney you trust and feel comfortable with, one who is knowledgeable and skilled in cases like yours.
Our firm has a team of legal professionals and staff who defend those accused of crimes in courts across Maries County and throughout the state of Missouri. Find out how we can help you with your criminal case by calling (314) 900-HELP or contacting us online now.
Maries County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Maries County and Missouri.
The Critical Role of Your Maries County, MO Defense Attorney
As your defense attorney, our team is tasked with protecting your legal rights and interests throughout the criminal justice process. We adhere to the highest standard and guarantee that you receive fair treatment, from your Miranda rights during the arrest and the prosecution’s use of evidence.
In addition to looking out for your basic constitutional rights, we work to help resolve your case while minimizing the impact of the legal consequences on your life. Depending on the situation and the charges, we will insist upon the ideal outcome, which might be receiving a lesser sentence, getting the charges reduced to less serious crimes, getting the case dismissed entirely, defeating the charges at trial, or working out a plea deal.
Your Combs Waterkotte legal defense team works tirelessly to examine the evidence surrounding the allegations against you. From questioning witnesses and consulting with topical experts to negotiating with the prosecuting attorneys, when you hire us, we are focused to building a strong defense. And when it comes time for court proceedings to take place, we are right there with you (or there on your behalf), supplying legal counsel, representation and support in court proceedings, such as plea negotiations, pre-trial hearings, and trials.
Why Hire a Defense Attorney?
When suspected of a crime, hiring a strong defense attorney in Maries County, MO is essential. Combs Waterkotte’s defense attorneys bring years of specialized expertise, training, and records of success in Missouri criminal cases similar to yours and will lead you through the legal process.
When you retain the right criminal defense lawyer in Maries County, MO, we will:
- Protect your rights: As your Maries County, MO area defense attorney, we ensure that your legal rights are protected throughout the criminal justice process. Behaviors such as unlawful search and seizure, coerced confessions, or other infringements violate the protections put into law to protect the accused. We see to it that Missouri courts are held accountable when they breach your rights.
- Investigate your case: One of the advantages of a defense attorney in Maries County, MO and reasons for hiring one is to investigate your case to access evidence and facts that support your defense case. We question witnesses, consult with experts, and examine police reports, medical records, and other documents related to the case.
- Navigate the legal system: The Missouri criminal justice system can be complex and confusing. A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney in Maries County, MO will help you navigate the legal system and grasp the charges against you, the possible consequences of a conviction, and your options for resolving the matter.
- Provide legal counsel and guidance: As experienced Maries County, MO criminal defense lawyers, we are able to advise you on all aspects of and possibilities in your case. We help you grasp the Missouri criminal justice system and the potential consequences of a conviction so you can make the right move.
- Build a strong defense: A defense attorney has the knowledge, proficiency, and resources to build a strong defense on your behalf. We examine the evidence, question witnesses, consult with experts and present a compelling case in your defense.
- Negotiate a favorable outcome: Your defense attorney will negotiate with prosecutors to arrive at the best possible outcome for your case. The possible outcomes depend on the details of your arrest and the case the prosecution has built you. We may be able to persuade the prosecutor to drop the case against you, negotiate a plea bargain, seek a reduction in charges or sentence or obtain an acquittal at trial.
- Minimize the impact: A criminal conviction can significantly impact your life, both personal and professional. With the help of a skilled and dedicated defense attorney in Maries County, MO, you can minimize the impact of criminal charges through probation or other sentencing options. If you are ultimately charged, as your Maries County, MO defense attorney we may be able to help address your criminal record and refer you with resources to help you retain certain rights, secure employment and do other things that are difficult to do with a criminal record.
- Provide access to resources: A defense attorney has access to a number of resources that can be used to win your case and that would be difficult to make use of if you were to represent yourself. We might work with private investigators, scientists or other professionals to compile evidence and build a strong case on your behalf.
- Experience peace of mind: Dealing with the reality of Maries County, MO criminal charges can be a scary and uncertain time. By hiring an experienced defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte, you will have peace of mind knowing that you have a qualified professional advocating for your legal rights and standing beside you along the way.
At the end of the day, each case is unique, and you need personalized legal advice. That starts with a free consultation where you talk to a prospective defense attorney to determine the fit and what you can expect if you were to work together. Schedule a consultation today by calling (314) 900-HELP or requesting one online.
At Combs Waterkotte in Maries County, MO, we’ve represented clients facing a wide range of criminal charges in our practice from simple misdemeanors to complex felonies. Every case comes with its own set of challenges that require the expertise of a seasoned Maries County, MO defense attorney. Below are some of the most common types of criminal charges that we handle. For additional case types, check out our full list of criminal defense practice areas or contact an attorney now.
Drug Charges
We often represent clients facing drug charges. The charges can vary from minor possession charges to trafficking and distribution. These charges are often the result of a drug bust or investigation by law enforcement.
If you are facing drug charges in Maries County, MO, you owe it to yourself to hire a defense attorney near Maries County, MO who has handled drug-related charges. A skilled Combs Waterkotte attorney will question the legality of the search and seizure, argue against the admissibility of evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors to obtain a favorable plea agreement.
DWI
DWI or driving while intoxicated charges can be life-altering. The consequences can be severe, including significant fines and even imprisonment. Though a DWI is often the result of driving while drunk, you can also be arrested for a DWI even if you are under the influence of drugs. If you have been arrested for DWI, it is essential to contact a defense attorney in Maries County, MO without delay. An experienced attorney can question the accuracy of the tests, seek to exclude evidence obtained during the stop, and negotiate with prosecutors to reduce the severity of the charges.
Gun Charges
Though Missouri gun laws are fairly permissive, gun owners must operate firearms within the specifications of state and federal gun laws, and those who don’t can be subject to severe penalties. Gun charges can include illegal possession, brandishing a weapon, and using a weapon in the commission of a crime. These charges can carry serious consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and the loss of your right to own a firearm. A defense attorney can work to challenge the evidence against you, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your Second Amendment rights.
Violent Crimes
Violent crimes refers to an entire category of crimes that range in severity and punishment, including assault, battery, manslaughter and homicide. A skilled defense attorney can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, negotiate plea agreements, and build a strong defense on your behalf.
Sex Crimes
There are a variety of crimes that fall under the category of sex crimes, such as charges of rape, sexual assault, statutory rape, and child exploitation. Although the severity and penalties for each crime may differ, charges like these can have long-lasting consequences, such as mandatory sex offender registration. If you are facing charges for any of these crimes, a Combs Waterkotte defense attorney in Maries County, MO can challenge the evidence, negotiate plea agreements, and protect your legal rights every step of the way.
Theft Charges
Embezzlement, identity theft, credit card fraud, and larceny are all instances of theft-related crimes. Theft-related charges can result in fines and other penalties, as well as jail time or even imprisonment. However, in addition to the court’s sentence, you will also be left with a criminal record that can impact your personal and professional life. It can make it extremely difficult to obtain a job, receive assistance, or qualify for opportunities that you want to pursue. Hire a defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte in Maries County, MO to dispute the prosecution’s evidence, negotiate plea agreements, and build a strong defense on your behalf.
If you are charged with a crime of any kind, it is crucial to retain a defense attorney who has experience managing cases comparable to yours. Each type of charge presents its own unique legal issues and complications, and a skilled attorney can help you get through the complexities of the criminal justice system and strive for the optimal result in your case. As a criminal defense law firm serving Maries County, MO, we are dedicated to protecting our clients’ legal rights and offering empathetic and effective representation. To schedule a consultation and find out how we can assist you with your criminal case, contact us now. Call (314) 900-HELP or send us a message.
Common Questions about Criminal Defense
What should I look for when hiring a defense attorney?
When hiring a defense attorney, it is important to look for someone with experience in handling your specific type of case, one with a strong track record of success in the courtroom You also should look for a lawyer who communicates with you, answers your questions and provides the information you need to make sound decisions for yourself during the case.
What are the fees for a defense attorney?
The cost of legal representation from a qualified Maries County, MO criminal defense lawyer depends on a number of factors, such as the complexity of your case and the attorney’s level of experience. It is important to discuss fees and payment plans with your attorney before hiring them. Start with a free consultation from a Combs Waterkotte attorney so we can understand your case and the cost of the legal representation you require.
How can a defense attorney assist me in avoiding jail time?
Even though it is not guaranteed that you can avoid jail time, an adept defense attorney such as the ones at Combs Waterkotte can strive to reach plea deals, dispute the proof presented by the prosecution, and build a solid argument in your favor. Ultimately, your case result will depend on various factors, like the strength of the evidence against you and how the judge and prosecutor handle your case.
Speak to a Defense Attorney in Maries County, MO Today | Combs Waterkotte
If you have been accused of any crime, whether an municipal offense, misdemeanor, breach of supervision or felony, the sooner you speak to a lawyer, the better. You deserve a strong defense and protection from injustice.
Your Combs Waterkotte defense lawyer will stand proudly by your side and serve as your advocate, someone you can trust to work toward your best interest and fight for your freedom and fair treatment. Reach out to our office to speak to an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Maries County, MO right away. Call us at (314) 900-HELP or fill out our form online.