Homicide lawyer in Chesterfield, MO. Facing a homicide charge in Chesterfield, MO is probably one of the most critical legal challenges anyone can endure. These accusations carry harsh punishments, including extended jail time or even the possibility of the death penalty. If you’ve been charged with homicide in Chesterfield, MO or anywhere in Missouri, speaking with an experienced homicide lawyer right away is essential.
Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation where you can discuss the specifics of your case with an expert criminal defense attorney. Our legal team has successfully handled over 10,000 cases just like yours.
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Types of Homicide Charges in Chesterfield, MO and Throughout Missouri
Homicide charges can differ based on the intent and situation surrounding the killing. It’s essential to grasp the various types of homicide charges that may be relevant:
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 is defined as the unlawful killing of another individual without the intention to take their life. It can be classified as voluntary – occurring in a moment of passion – or involuntary – resulting from reckless or negligent conduct. Manslaughter is categorized as 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 Should I Do If I’m Charged with Homicide in Chesterfield, 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 mental incapacity.
If you’re accused of homicide in Chesterfield, MO, it is a serious matter. Knowing what to do after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is crucial, and our skilled Chesterfield, MO homicide legal team suggests you take the following steps:
- Hire an Attorney: Having a Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney in Chesterfield, MO by your side as soon as possible to help ensure a successful outcome. A qualified attorney can analyze police reports, collect evidence, talk to witnesses, and develop a robust defense strategy. They can also seek ways to have charges reduced or dismissed and formulate an effective trial strategy. Give us a call at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
- Keep Quiet: When police say “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. Making an ill-timed statement during an investigation could sway the case against you and offer prosecutors evidence to demonstrate your guilt. Having a good criminal defense lawyer in Chesterfield, MO is critical in this regard, as you would want to tell the truth but in the correct way.
- Remember You Are Presumed Innocent: Sadly, in our current climate, being accused of a crime can lead many to presume your guilty. This stigma can negatively affect your mental well-being and lead to decisions you would not normally make. Fortunately, your Combs Waterkotte Chesterfield, MO homicide lawyer understands your situation and is here to help you find clarity and strength during this difficult time.
St. Louis County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in St. Louis County and Missouri.
Why You Should Hire a Combs Waterkotte Homicide Lawyer in Chesterfield, MO
Facing homicide charges in or around Chesterfield, MO is a serious matter with significant consequences. You shouldn’t gamble with your future or choose a lawyer based on an advertisement. Securing a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney could determine whether you receive a reduced sentence, achieve freedom, or face life imprisonment. Here’s how the Combs Waterkotte homicide legal team helps in Chesterfield, MO:
- Thorough Case Analysis: Our homicide attorneys will launch a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding your case, examining police documents, forensic evidence, witness testimonies, and any other pertinent information. They may also collaborate with private investigators and expert witnesses to effectively challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
- Find Gaps in the Prosecution’s Case: Our tenacious homicide attorneys will meticulously analyze every detail of the case to find flaws in the prosecution’s evidence. This diligent approach may lead to a dismissal of charges, a reduction in charges, or an acquittal.
- Ensure Your Rights are Protected: You have specific rights guaranteed by Chesterfield, 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 Chesterfield, MO criminal defense attorneys have witnessed many instances where clients’ rights were compromised. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and securing your future throughout the Chesterfield, MO area. Here are three frequently violated rights during Chesterfield, MO homicide arrests and interrogations:
- Due Process Violations: When you are accused of homicide or any crime, you have the right to due process, ensuring fair treatment throughout 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 constitutes a violation of your due process rights.
- Failure to Read the Miranda Warning: According to Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court determined that police must inform you of your rights prior to any questioning. This includes your right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the warning that anything said can be used in court. Officers only need to read your Miranda rights if they detain and question you with the intent to use your statements in court. While waiving these rights is an option, it’s best to assert your right to remain silent and immediately contact a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
- Unlawful Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures. Police need reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you and must have probable cause to make an arrest in Chesterfield, MO and beyond. This means they must present facts justifying their belief that a crime was or is being committed. Evidence gathered through unlawful searches may be deemed inadmissible in court.
- Provide Expert Witnesses: Combs Waterkotte works with a wide network of experts in and around Chesterfield, MO, from forensic scientists and ballistics experts to medical examiners and crime scene analysts. Our attorneys can enlist these experts to dispute critical factors in your case, including the cause of death.
- Negotiate for Reduced Charges: A skilled and aggressive Chesterfield, MO homicide lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a plea to a lesser offense, especially if the evidence against you is overwhelming. 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 facing homicide charges in the Chesterfield, MO area and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the leading homicide lawyer in Chesterfield, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our esteemed homicide lawyers, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for Chesterfield, MO residents:
Consult an Experienced Homicide Lawyer in Chesterfield, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
Given the severity of homicide charges, it’s crucial for anyone facing such allegations to consult a Chesterfield, MO homicide lawyer as soon as possible. Our experienced legal team is well-versed in Missouri laws and will do everything in its power to make sure your charges are dropped or reduced. If you’re confronted with a homicide charge anywhere near Chesterfield, MO, don’t delay.
Contact a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Chesterfield, 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 free case assessment.
