Homicide lawyer in Arnold, MO. Facing a homicide charge in Arnold, MO is one of the most severe legal challenges anyone can encounter. These charges carry serious consequences, including lengthy prison sentences or even the death penalty. If you have been accused of homicide in Arnold, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, you need to speak with an experienced homicide lawyer right away.
Don’t hesitate to call Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation. Discuss your case in detail with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our firm has handled more than 10,000 cases like yours with proven results.
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Types of Homicide Charges in Arnold, MO and Throughout Missouri
Homicide charges can differ significantly based on the circumstances surrounding the act and the intent behind it. Understanding the various types of homicide charges in Arnold, MO that may apply is crucial:
First-Degree Murder
First-degree murder in Arnold, MO involves a planned and intentional killing. This charge is classified as a class A felony, typically resulting in life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, or even the death penalty, depending on the specifics of the case.
Second-Degree Murder
Second-degree murder involves an intentional killing that was not premeditated. Also a class A felony, this offense can carry prison sentences ranging from 10 to 30 years, or even life. This differs from the first degree in that you may qualify for parole after serving more than 85 percent of the sentence.
Manslaughter:
Manslaughter refers to the unlawful killing of another individual without the intent to kill. It can be either voluntary – in the heat of passion – or involuntary – due to reckless or negligent behavior. Manslaughter is a class B or class C felony.
Vehicular Manslaughter
This charge involves causing the death of another through reckless or negligent driving. The charges can vary from a misdemeanor to a felony, with penalties depending on whether drugs, alcohol, or extreme recklessness were factors.
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What Steps Should I Take if Accused of Homicide in Arnold, MO?
Homicide is a manner of death, when one individual causes the death of another. However, not all instances of homicide quality as murder; some may be classified as manslaughter, while others may be deemed lawful, such as cases involving an affirmative defense like self-defense or insanity.
Being accused of homicide in Arnold, MO is a serious issue. It’s vital to know what actions to take after being questioned, arrested, or indicted. Our knowledgeable homicide legal team in Arnold, MO suggests the following steps:
- Hire an Attorney: Engaging a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney on your side in Arnold, MO as early as possible is critical to getting a successful outcome. A qualified attorney can review police reports, collect evidence, talk to witnesses, and build a strong defense. They can also look for potential ways to get your charges reduced or outright dismissed, or plan an effective, winning trial strategy. Give us a call at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
- Do Not Say Anything: When law enforcement informs you that “Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law” during the reading of your Miranda rights, heed their warning. Saying the wrong thing during an investigation can significantly impact the outcome of your case and provide prosecutors with evidence to establish your guilt. It’s essential to have a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Arnold, MO who can help you navigate this situation and articulate your side appropriately.
- Acknowledge Your Presumption of Innocence: Sadly, in this day and age, many individuals jump to conclusions, viewing an accusation as a sign of guilt. This perception can significantly impact your mental well-being and make you consider things that you would never do under better circumstances. Luckily for you, your Combs Waterkotte Arnold, MO homicide attorney understands your situation and is here to help you find clarity and strength during this difficult time.
Jefferson County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Jefferson County and Missouri.
The Importance of Hiring a Combs Waterkotte Arnold, MO Homicide Lawyer
Facing homicide charges in or around Arnold, MO is a serious matter with significant consequences. It’s critical not to leave your future to chance or to rely on a lawyer whose name you saw on a billboard or bus stop. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney can mean the difference between a lighter sentence or even freedom and spending years in prison. Here’s how the Arnold, MO Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyers can assist you:
- Case Investigation: Our homicide lawyers will initiate a detailed investigation into the facts of the case, reviewing police documents, forensic evidence, witness accounts, and any other material. They may also collaborate with private investigators and expert witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Identify Flaws in the Prosecution’s Case: Our dedicated homicide lawyers will examine every aspect of the case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. This could result in the dismissal of charges, a reduction in charges, or a successful acquittal.
- Ensure Your Rights are Protected: You have certain rights guaranteed by Arnold, MO and Missouri law, as well as by the Bill of Rights of the U.S. Constitution. These rights are essential for ensuring a fair and impartial justice system. Our Arnold, MO criminal defense attorneys have unfortunately seen a number of situations where our clients’ rights were violated. We do everything in our power to protect your rights and future. Three of the most violated rights in Arnold, MO homicide arrests and interrogations are:
- Violations of Due Process: When accused of homicide, or any crime for that matter, you are entitled to due process, ensuring fair treatment in the legal system. This means you’re entitled to receive notice of the charges against you and having the chance to respond. Additionally, you have the right to an impartial judge or jury to determine your guilt or innocence. Prosecutors must provide all exculpatory evidence, and failing to do so constitutes a violation of your due process rights.
- Failure to Provide the Miranda Warning: In the landmark case of Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court determined that police must inform you of your rights prior to any questioning. This includes the right to remain silent, your right to a lawyer, as well as a warning that anything you say can be used against you in court. Officers are only required to read your Miranda rights if they are detaining you and intend to use your statements in a court of law. While you can waive these rights, it’s not advisable. Instead, assert your right to remain silent and contact a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
- Illegal Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment safeguards against unreasonable searches and seizures. Police need reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you and must have probable cause to make an arrest in Arnold, MO and beyond. This means they need to provide facts justifying their belief that a crime has occurred or is in progress. If evidence is obtained through an illegal search, it may be excluded from court.
- Secure Expert Testimony: Our team at Combs Waterkotte works with a wide network of skilled professionals in and around Arnold, MO, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can enlist these specialists to dispute critical factors in your case, including the cause of death.
- Advocate for Lesser Charges: An experienced and aggressive Arnold, MO homicide attorney can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a guilty plea to a lesser charge, especially if the evidence against you is overwhelming. At Combs Waterkotte, our lawyers prioritize your interests, guiding you while allowing you to make the final decision.
When you are accused of homicide in Arnold, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the leading homicide lawyer in Arnold, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert criminal defense from our experienced homicide attorneys, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Arnold and beyond:
- Weapon Crime Defense Lawyer
- DWI Lawyer With Payment Plans
- Criminal Defense Lawyer with Payment Plans
Reach Out to an Expert Arnold, MO Homicide Lawyer Now at Combs Waterkotte
Since homicide is a serious felony crime, it’s essential for anyone facing these charges to speak with a Arnold, MO homicide attorney right away. Our experienced legal team has a deep understanding of Missouri laws and is dedicated to working tirelessly to have your charges reduced or dismissed. If you’re facing a homicide charge anywhere near Arnold, MO, take action now.
Get in touch with an expert Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Arnold, MO now to protect your rights, your future, and to secure the best possible defense. Call (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a no-obligation case review.
