Homicide lawyer in Creve Coeur, MO. Being charged with homicide in Creve Coeur, 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 Creve Coeur, MO or anywhere across Missouri, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced homicide lawyer right away.
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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The Different Types of Creve Coeur, MO Homicide Charges
Homicide charges vary depending on the circumstances and intent behind the killing. It’s important to understand the different types of homicide charges that could apply:
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 encompasses intentional killings that occur without premeditation. This charge is also a class A felony and can lead to sentences of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment. Unlike murder in the first degree, individuals convicted of this crime may qualify for parole after serving at least 85 percent of their sentence.
Manslaughter:
Manslaughter is the unlawful killing of someone without the intent to end their life. It can be categorized as voluntary – triggered by a sudden emotional reaction – or involuntary – resulting from careless or reckless actions. This offense is classified as a class B or class C felony.
Vehicular Manslaughter
This charge refers to the act of causing someone’s death through reckless or negligent driving. Charges may range from a misdemeanor to a felony, and the penalties for vehicular manslaughter depend on whether substances like drugs or alcohol, or factors such as extreme recklessness, were involved.
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What Should I Do If I’m Charged with Homicide in Creve Coeur, MO?
Homicide occurs when one individual causes the death of another. Not all homicide is murder though, as some deaths caused by another individual are manslaughter, and some are lawful – like when justified by an affirmative defense, such as insanity or self-defense.
If you’re accused of homicide in Creve Coeur, MO, it is a serious matter. Knowing what to do after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is crucial, and our skilled Creve Coeur, MO homicide legal team suggests you take the following steps:
- Contact a Lawyer: Having a Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney on your side in Creve Coeur, MO as early as possible is critical to getting a successful outcome. A qualified attorney can review police reports, gather evidence, talk to witnesses, and create a robust defense strategy. They can also explore opportunities to reduce or dismiss charges and devise an effective trial plan. Reach 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” as they read your Miranda rights, believe them. 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 Creve Coeur, MO who can help you navigate this situation and articulate your side appropriately.
- Acknowledge Your Presumption of Innocence: Sadly, in our current climate, simply being accused of a crime automatically makes you guilty in the minds of many people. This perception can significantly impact your mental health and lead to decisions you would not normally make. Thankfully, your Combs Waterkotte Creve Coeur, MO homicide attorney is aware of the challenges you’re facing and can help you find hope amid adversity.
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.
The Significance of Choosing a Combs Waterkotte Homicide Lawyer in Creve Coeur, MO
Facing homicide charges in or around Creve Coeur, MO is a serious matter with significant consequences. You can’t leave this to chance or to a lawyer found on a billboard or bus stop. Securing a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can be the difference between a reduced sentence or freedom and a life behind bars. Here’s how the Creve Coeur, MO Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyers can assist you:
- Thorough Case Analysis: Our homicide attorneys will launch a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding your case, examining police documents, forensic data, witness statements, and any other pertinent information. They may also work with private investigators and expert witnesses to effectively challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
- Spot Weaknesses in the Prosecution’s Argument: Our relentless homicide attorneys will examine every aspect of the case to uncover any flaws in the prosecution’s evidence. This diligent approach may lead to a dismissal of charges, a reduction in charges, or a successful acquittal.
- Verify That Your Rights Were Respected: Under Creve Coeur, MO and Missouri law, as well as the U.S. Constitution’s Bill of Rights, you possess specific rights. These rights protect you and help ensure that our justice system remains fair and impartial. Unfortunately, our Creve Coeur, MO criminal defense attorneys have witnessed many instances where clients’ rights were compromised. We do everything in our power to protect your rights and future. Here are three frequently violated rights during Creve Coeur, MO homicide arrests and interrogations:
- Violations of Due Process: When you are accused of homicide or any crime, 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 infringes on your due process rights.
- Failure to Read the Miranda Warning: In the landmark case of Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court determined that law enforcement must inform you of your rights before conducting any questioning. This includes your 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 only need to read your Miranda rights if they are detaining you and intend to use your statements in a court of law. 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 get in touch 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 Creve Coeur, MO and beyond. This means they must provide factual justification for their belief that a crime was or is being committed. If evidence is obtained through an illegal search, it may be excluded from court.
- Engage Expert Witnesses: Our team at Combs Waterkotte has access to a diverse network of experts in the Creve Coeur, MO area, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can enlist these experts to challenge key elements of the case, such as the cause of death.
- Negotiate for Reduced Charges: A talented and proactive Creve Coeur, MO homicide lawyer can negotiate with the prosecution for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a guilty plea to a lesser charge, particularly 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 are accused of homicide in or around Creve Coeur, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the ideal homicide lawyer in Creve Coeur, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert criminal defense from our knowledgeable homicide lawyers, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for Creve Coeur, MO residents:
Contact a Skilled Creve Coeur, 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 Creve Coeur, MO homicide attorney right away. 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 facing a homicide charge in or around Creve Coeur, MO, take action now.
Contact an expert Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Creve Coeur, 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 review.
