Homicide lawyer in DeKalb County, MO. Facing a homicide charge in DeKalb County, 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 DeKalb County, 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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Homicide Charges in DeKalb County, MO and Across Missouri
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 refers to an intentional killing that lacks premeditation. Also categorized as a class A felony, this crime can lead to prison sentences ranging from 10 to 30 years, or potentially life. Unlike first-degree murder, those convicted may be eligible for parole after serving at least 85 percent of their 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 Do I Do If I’m Accused Of Homicide in DeKalb County, 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.
Being accused of homicide in DeKalb County, 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 DeKalb County, MO suggests the following steps:
- Hire an Attorney: Engaging a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney in DeKalb County, MO as soon as possible is crucial for achieving a favorable outcome. A good lawyer can review police reports, collect critical evidence, talk to witnesses, and develop a solid 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.
- Remain Silent: When police say “Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law” while reading you your Miranda rights, believe them. Saying the wrong thing during investigations could potentially change the outcome of your case and give prosecutors ample material to prove guilt. Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer in DeKalb County, MO is crucial to ensuring you communicate effectively.
- Remember You Are Presumed Innocent: 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 make you consider things that you would never do under better circumstances. Fortunately, your Combs Waterkotte DeKalb County, MO homicide attorney is aware of the challenges you’re facing and can help you find hope amid adversity.
DeKalb County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in DeKalb County and Missouri.
The Significance of Choosing a Combs Waterkotte Homicide Lawyer in DeKalb County, MO
If you’re facing homicide charges, the stakes are incredibly high in DeKalb County, MO. 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 can support you in DeKalb County, MO:
- Thorough Case Analysis: Our homicide lawyers will initiate a detailed investigation of the circumstances surrounding your case, examining police documents, forensic data, witness accounts, and any other pertinent information. They may also work with private investigators and expert witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
- Identify Flaws in the Prosecution’s Case: Our tenacious homicide attorneys will scrutinize every aspect of the case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. This diligent approach may result in the dismissal of charges, a reduction in charges, or an acquittal.
- Make Sure Your Rights Weren’t Violated: Under DeKalb County, 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. Our DeKalb County, MO criminal defense attorneys have unfortunately encountered numerous instances where our clients’ rights were violated. We are committed to defending your rights and securing your future throughout the DeKalb County, MO area. Here are three frequently violated rights during DeKalb County, MO homicide arrests and interrogations:
- Violations of Due Process: When accused of homicide, or any crime for that matter, you have the right to due process, ensuring fair treatment throughout the legal system. This includes being informed 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 Provide the Miranda Warning: In Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that police must inform you of your rights before conducting any questioning. This includes the right to remain silent, the right to legal representation, 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 against unreasonable searches and seizures. Police need reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you and must have probable cause to make an arrest in DeKalb County, MO and beyond. This means they need to present factual justification for 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 has access to a diverse network of skilled professionals in the DeKalb County, MO area, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can enlist these experts to dispute critical factors in your case, including the cause of death.
- Negotiate for Reduced Charges: A talented and proactive DeKalb County, MO homicide lawyer can negotiate with the prosecution for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a guilty plea to a lesser charge, especially if the evidence against you is compelling. At Combs Waterkotte, our attorneys prioritize your interests, guiding you while allowing you to make the final decision.
When you are accused of homicide in DeKalb County, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the leading homicide lawyer in DeKalb County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our esteemed homicide lawyers, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for DeKalb County, MO residents:
- Weapon Crime Defense Lawyer
- DWI Lawyer With Payment Plans
- Criminal Defense Lawyer with Payment Plans
Consult an Experienced Homicide Lawyer in DeKalb County, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
Since homicide is a serious felony crime, it’s essential for anyone facing these charges to speak with a DeKalb County, 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 in or around DeKalb County, MO, don’t delay.
Contact a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in DeKalb County, MO today to protect your rights and future while ensuring the best possible defense. Call (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a no-obligation case review.
