Homicide lawyer in Bolivar, MO. Being charged with homicide in Bolivar, MO is one of the most serious legal battles you could ever face. The penalties can be life-altering, ranging from long-term imprisonment to capital punishment. If you’ve been accused of homicide in Bolivar, MO or anywhere across Missouri, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced homicide lawyer right away.
Contact Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a free, one-on-one consultation. You’ll have the chance to discuss the specifics of your case with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our seasoned team has successfully handled over 10,000 cases just like yours.
Legal Videos
Types of Homicide Charges in Bolivar, 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 Bolivar, MO that may apply is crucial:
First-Degree Murder
First-degree murder is the most serious homicide charge, involving a deliberate and premeditated act. This offense is classified as a class A felony, often resulting in a life sentence without the possibility of parole, or even the death penalty, depending on the details 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.
-
Protect Your Life
![Image]()
Protect Your Life
A felony can have long-term consequences. Act quickly and carefully to protect your future and your livelihood.
Reach Out Now
-
Know Your Next Steps
![Image]()
Know Your Next Steps
Wondering what happens after your felony arrest? The skilled Combs Waterkotte attorneys have the answers.
Stay Informed
-
Title
![Image]()
Ready to Talk to an Expert?
Contact the experienced Combs Waterkotte felony lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP to get started on your defense.
Get Started
What Should I Do If I’m Charged with Homicide in Bolivar, MO?
Homicide refers to the act of one individual causing 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.
If you’re accused of homicide in Bolivar, MO, it is a serious matter. Knowing what to do after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is crucial, and our skilled Bolivar, MO homicide legal team suggests you take the following steps:
- Consult a Lawyer: It’s essential to have a competent Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney in Bolivar, MO as soon as possible is crucial for achieving a favorable outcome. A good lawyer can analyze police reports, gather critical evidence, interview 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. Call us at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
- Remain Silent: 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 Bolivar, MO who can help you navigate this situation and articulate your side appropriately.
- Remember You Are Presumed Innocent: Sadly, in this day and age, being accused of a crime can lead many to presume your guilty. 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 Bolivar, MO homicide attorney understands your situation and is here to help you find clarity and strength during this difficult time.
Polk County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Polk County and Missouri.
The Significance of Choosing a Combs Waterkotte Homicide Lawyer in Bolivar, MO
Facing homicide charges in or around Bolivar, 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. Securing a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney could determine whether you receive a reduced sentence, achieve freedom, or face life imprisonment. Here’s how the Bolivar, MO Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyers can assist you:
- Case Investigation: Our homicide attorneys will conduct an exhaustive investigation into your case, reviewing police reports, forensic data, witness testimonies, and all relevant materials. They may also collaborate with private investigators and expert witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
- Find Gaps in the Prosecution’s Case: Our tenacious homicide lawyers will scrutinize every aspect of the case to uncover any flaws in the prosecution’s evidence. This could result in the dismissal of charges, a plea reduction, or an acquittal.
- Verify That Your Rights Were Respected: You have protected rights guaranteed by Bolivar, MO and Missouri law, as well as by the Bill of Rights of the U.S. Constitution. These rights protect you and help ensure that our justice system remains fair and impartial. Unfortunately, our Bolivar, MO criminal defense attorneys have witnessed many instances where clients’ rights were compromised. We are committed to protecting your rights and securing your future throughout the Bolivar, MO area. Three of the most violated rights in Bolivar, MO homicide arrests and interrogations are:
- Violations of Due Process: When accused of homicide, or any crime for that matter, you have the right 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. You also have the right to an unbiased judge or jury to evaluate your guilt or innocence. Prosecutors must provide all exculpatory evidence, and failing to do so infringes on your due process rights.
- Failure to Provide the Miranda Warning: According to Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court established that police must inform you of your rights before questioning. This includes the right to remain silent, your right to an attorney, and the warning that anything said can be used in court. Police are only required to read your Miranda rights if they are detaining you and intend to use your statements in a court of law. Although you may waive these rights, it’s advisable to assert your right to remain silent and contact a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer immediately at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.
- Unlawful Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures. Police must have reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you in Bolivar, MO and elsewhere, and must possess probable cause for an arrest. This means they need to provide facts justifying their belief that a crime was or is being committed. Evidence gathered through unlawful searches may be deemed inadmissible in court.
- Engage Expert Witnesses: Our team at Combs Waterkotte has access to a diverse network of experts in and around Bolivar, MO, from forensic scientists and ballistics experts to medical examiners and crime scene analysts. Our attorneys can call these specialists to challenge key elements of the case, such as the cause of death.
- Advocate for Lesser Charges: A talented and aggressive Bolivar, MO homicide attorney can negotiate with the prosecution for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a plea to a lesser offense, particularly if the evidence against you is compelling. The Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyers always act in your best interest. While they may provide guidance and expert legal advice, the final decision is yours.
When you’re accused of homicide in the Bolivar, MO area and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the leading homicide lawyer in Bolivar, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our esteemed homicide attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Bolivar and beyond:
Reach Out to an Expert Bolivar, 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 Bolivar, MO homicide attorney right away. Our experienced legal team has a deep understanding of Missouri laws and is committed to doing everything possible to have your charges reduced or dropped. If you’re facing a homicide charge in or around Bolivar, MO, don’t delay.
Get in touch with a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Bolivar, MO today to protect your rights, your future, and to secure the best possible defense. Call (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, no-obligation case review.
