The Importance of Hiring a Skilled Defense Attorney inUniversity City, MO

University City, MO Defense Attorney. When facing the potential of a criminal conviction, 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 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 process.

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 serve people who have been accused of crimes in courts across University City 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 Essential Role of Your University City, MO Defense Attorney

As your defense attorney, we is tasked with preserving your legal rights and interests during the course of the criminal justice process. We adhere to the highest standard and ensure that you receive fair treatment, from your Miranda rights during the arrest and evidence they use to the trial proceedings — if your case goes to trial.

In addition to looking out for your basic constitutional rights, we strive to help resolve your case while lessening the reach of the legal consequences on your life. Depending on the situation and the charges, we will battle for the ideal outcome, which could 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 investigate 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 committed to building a strong defense. And when your court dates roll around, we are right there with you (or there on your behalf), providing legal counsel, representation and support during plea negotiations, pre-trial hearings, and trials.

Why Hire a Defense Attorney?

If you are suspected of a crime, hiring a strong defense attorney in University City, 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 guide you through the legal process.

When you retain the right criminal defense lawyer in University City, MO, we will:

• Enforce your rights: As your University City, MO area defense attorney, your Combs Waterkotte legal team will ensure that your legal rights are protected throughout the criminal justice process. Actions such as unlawful search and seizure, coerced confessions, or other infringements violate the protections put into law to protect the accused. We hold Missouri courts accountable when they breach your rights.
• Investigate your case: One of the duties of a defense attorney in University City, MO and reasons for hiring one is to conduct an investigation to access evidence and facts that support your defense case. We interview witnesses, consult with experts, and review 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 University City, MO will help you maneuver the legal system and understand the charges against you, the possible consequences of a conviction, and your options for resolving the matter.
• Provide legal counsel and guidance: As experienced University City, 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 take the appropriate decision.
• Build a strong defense: A defense attorney has the knowledge, skills, and resources to build a strong 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 against 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 land an acquittal at trial.
• Minimize the impact: A criminal conviction can greatly impact your life, both personal and professional. With the help of a skilled and dedicated defense attorney in University City, MO, you can minimize the impact of criminal charges through probation or other sentencing options. If you are ultimately charged, as your University City, MO defense attorney we may be able to help address your criminal record and refer you with resources to help you keep 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 investigators, scientists or other professionals to collect evidence and build a strong case on your behalf.
• Find peace of mind: Dealing with the reality of University City, MO criminal charges can be a scary and uncertain time. By hiring an experienced defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte, you will experience peace of mind knowing that you have a skilled professional advocating for your legal rights and standing beside you along the way.

In the end, each case is unique, and you deserve personalized legal advice. That starts with a free consultation where you meet with 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 University City, MO, we’ve represented a wide variety of criminal charges over the years from simple misdemeanors to complex felonies. Every type of charge brings its own set of legal complexities that call for the experience of a seasoned University City, MO defense attorney. Below are some of the most common types of criminal charges that we work. For additional case types, check out our full list of criminal defense practice areas or contact an attorney now.

Drug Charges

Drug charges can be complex and challenging cases. 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 University City, MO, you owe it to yourself to hire a defense attorney near University City, MO who has handled drug-related charges. A skilled Combs Waterkotte attorney can 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 potential penalties include fines, license suspension, and jail time. 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 imperative to contact a defense attorney in University City, MO as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can question the accuracy of the tests, argue against the legality of the traffic 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 are vulnerable to very serious criminal charges. 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 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 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 sex offender registration. If you are facing charges for any of these crimes, a Combs Waterkotte defense attorney in University City, 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 forms of theft charges. Theft-related charges can result in fines and penalties, as well as jail time or even imprisonment. But in addition to the court’s sentence, you will also be left with a criminal record that can have an impact on your personal and professional life. It can make it very difficult to obtain a job, receive assistance, or qualify for opportunities that you want to pursue. With the help of a criminal defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte representing you in University City, MO, you can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, negotiate plea agreements, and build a strong defense.

If you are facing criminal charges of any kind, it is important to hire a defense attorney who has experience handling cases like yours. Each type of charge presents its own distinct legal issues and complications, and a skilled attorney can help you work through the complications of the criminal justice system and strive for the most favorable outcome in your case. As a criminal defense law firm serving University City, MO, we are committed to protecting our clients’ legal rights and providing empathetic and effective representation. To schedule a consultation and discover our capabilities regarding your criminal case, reach out to us today. Call (314) 900-HELP or send us a message.

Frequently Asked Questions our Attorneys Hear

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. You also 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 much does a defense attorney cost?

The cost of legal representation from a qualified University City, 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 starting your case. 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 in avoiding jail time?

Despite the fact that there is no assurance that you can avoid jail time, a proficient defense attorney like the ones at Combs Waterkotte can strive to reach plea deals, contest the evidence of the prosecution, and construct a solid argument on your behalf. At the end of the day, the outcome of your case will depend on various factors, like the strength of the evidence against you and how the judge and prosecutor handle your case.

Contact a Defense Attorney in University City, MO Today | Combs Waterkotte

If you have been accused of any crime, whether an ordinance violation, minor crime, parole or probation violation or felony, the sooner you speak to a lawyer, the better. You deserve a solid 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. Contact the Combs Waterkotte office to speak to an experienced criminal defense lawyer in University City, MO right away. Call us at (314) 900-HELP or send us a message online.