The Importance of Hiring a Skilled Defense Attorney inSt. Peters, MO

St. Peters, MO Defense Attorney. When you’re facing the potential of a criminal conviction, who among us wouldn’t be frightened, stressed, or possibly even tempted to run and ignore reality? It’s scary, and the consequences — regardless of your actual guilt — can be severe. However, all is not lost. Having a defense attorney represent you can make a night-to-day difference in the outcome of your case and your peace of mind during the process.

In case you are charged with a criminal offense, finding a competent defense lawyer 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.

Combs Waterkotte has a team of attorneys and legal assistants who defend those accused of crimes in courts across St. Peters 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.

The Critical Role of Your St. Peters, 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 make sure that you receive fair treatment, from your Miranda rights during the arrest and the prosecution’s use of evidence.

In addition to protecting your basic constitutional rights, we strive to help resolve your case while minimizing the reach of the legal consequences on your life. Depending on the situation and the charges, we will fight for the best possible outcome, which might be receiving a lesser sentence, getting the charges reduced to lesser 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 scrutinize the evidence presented in the allegations against you. From interviewing 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 your court dates roll around, we are right there with you (or there on your behalf), offering legal counsel, representation and support during plea negotiations, pre-trial hearings, and trials.

Why Hire a Defense Attorney?

When facing criminal charges, hiring a strong defense attorney in St. Peters, MO is crucial. Combs Waterkotte’s defense attorneys bring years of specialized expertise, training, and records of success in Missouri criminal cases similar to yours and will guide you through the legal process.

When you retain a qualified criminal defense lawyer in St. Peters, MO, we will:

• Enforce your rights: As your St. Peters, MO area defense attorney, we look out for your best interests and protect you throughout the criminal justice process. Behaviors such as unlawful search and seizure, coerced confessions, or other infringements go against the laws put in place to protect the accused. We hold Missouri courts accountable when they violate your rights.
• Investigate your case: One of the duties of a defense attorney in St. Peters, MO and reasons for retain one is to investigate your case to uncover 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 intricate and bewildering. A Combs Waterkotte defense attorney in St. Peters, MO will help you work through the legal system and grasp the charges against you, the potential impact of a criminal conviction on your life, and your options for resolving the matter.
• Provide legal counsel and guidance: As experienced St. Peters, MO criminal defense lawyers, we are able to counsel 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 take the right move.
• Build a strong defense: A defense attorney has the knowledge, proficiency, and resources to build a solid defense on your behalf. We examine the evidence, interview witnesses, consult with experts and offer 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 secure an acquittal at trial.
• Minimize the impact: A criminal conviction can significantly impact your life, both personal and professional. Your Combs Waterkotte defense attorney in St. Peters, MO will help you keep the effect of your criminal charges on your life by way of probation or other sentencing options. If you are ultimately charged, as your St. Peters, MO defense attorney we may be able to help address your criminal record and refer you with resources to help you retain certain rights, find employment and do other things that are difficult to do with a criminal record.
• Leverage our resources: A defense attorney has access to a number of resources that can help support your defense that you would otherwise not be able to use if you were to represent yourself. We might work with detectives, scientists or other professionals to gather evidence and build a strong case on your behalf.
• Find peace of mind: Dealing with the reality of St. Peters, MO criminal charges can be a unsettling and uncertain time. By hiring an experienced defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte, you can enjoy 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 speak 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.

As a criminal defense law firm in St. Peters, MO, we’ve seen clients facing a wide range of criminal charges in our practice carrying potential sentences ranging from minor to life-altering. Each type of charge comes with its own set of challenges that require the skillset of a seasoned St. Peters, MO defense attorney. Below are some of the most common types of criminal charges that we handle. If you don’t see the kind of charges you are facing listed here, check out our full list of criminal defense practice areas or contact an attorney now.

Drug Charges

Drug charges are one of the most common cases we handle. The charges can vary from possession to trafficking and distribution. Drug charges typically stem from police investigations and arrests.

If you are facing drug charges in St. Peters, MO, it is critical to hire a defense attorney near St. Peters, MO who has handled these types of cases. A skilled Combs Waterkotte attorney will challenge the legality of the search and seizure, argue against the admissibility of evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss the charges or land an alternative sentencing deal such as rehab or drug court.

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 important to contact a defense attorney in St. Peters, MO as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can challenge the accuracy of the breathalyzer or blood test, seek to exclude evidence obtained during the stop, and negotiate with prosecutors to obtain a favorable plea agreement.

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 are vulnerable to very serious legal repurcussions. Gun charges can include illegal possession, brandishing a weapon, and using a weapon in the commission of a crime. The potential penalties include fines, imprisonment, and loss of the right to own firearms. A defense attorney can work to question the validity of the evidence, 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 seek to exclude evidence obtained by the prosecution, 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 St. Peters, MO can fight the evidence, negotiate plea agreements, and protect your legal rights from start to finish.

Theft Charges

Embezzlement, identity theft, credit card fraud, and larceny are all instances of theft-related crimes. Conviction for any of these crimes can result in monetary penalties and probation, 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 incredibly difficult to obtain a job, receive assistance, or qualify for opportunities that you want to pursue. With a criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte representing you in St. Peters, MO, you can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, negotiate plea agreements, and build a strong defense.

If you are charged with a crime of any kind, it is important to retain a defense attorney who has experience managing cases like yours. Each type of charge presents its own unique legal issues and obstacles, and a skilled attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system and strive for the most favorable outcome in your case. As a criminal defense law firm serving St. Peters, MO, we are dedicated to defending our clients’ legal rights and offering empathetic and effective representation. To book a consultation and discover our capabilities regarding your criminal case, get in touch with us immediately. Call (314) 900-HELP or send us a message.

Common Questions from our Clients

How do I choose a good defense attorney?

You should look for an experienced defense attorney with experience in handling your specific type of case, one with a strong track record of winning in court. On top of that, you deserve an attorney who communicates with you, answers your questions and provides the information you need to make sound decisions for yourself during the case.

How do I pay for a defense attorney?

The cost of legal representation from a qualified St. Peters, 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.

Is it possible for a defense attorney to assist me stay out of jail?

Even though it is not guaranteed that you can avoid jail time, a skilled defense attorney like the lawyers at Combs Waterkotte can work to negotiate plea agreements, dispute the proof presented by the prosecution, and create a solid argument in your favor. Ultimately, the outcome of your case will depend on a number of factors, like the strength of the evidence against you and the decision of the judge and prosecutor handling your case.

Consult a Defense Attorney in St. Peters, MO Now | Combs Waterkotte

If you have been accused of any crime, whether an municipal offense, minor crime, parole or probation violation or felony, the sooner you speak to a lawyer, the better. You deserve a strong defense and a chance for fair treatment from the court.

Your Combs Waterkotte defense attorney 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 the Combs Waterkotte office to consult an experienced criminal defense lawyer in St. Peters, MO right away. Call us at (314) 900-HELP or request a consultation online.