Homicide lawyer in Ferguson, MO. Facing a homicide charge in Ferguson, 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 Ferguson, 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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The Different Types of Ferguson, MO Homicide Charges
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 in Ferguson, 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 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 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 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 Ferguson, 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 mental incapacity.
Being accused of homicide in Ferguson, 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 Ferguson, MO suggests the following steps:
- Hire an Attorney: It’s essential to have a competent Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney in Ferguson, MO by your side as soon as possible to help ensure a successful outcome. A qualified attorney can help review police reports, gather critical evidence, speak with witnesses, and create a strong defense. 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” during the reading of your Miranda rights, take that seriously. Saying the wrong thing during investigations could potentially change the outcome of your case and give prosecutors ample material to prove guilt. Having a good criminal defense lawyer in Ferguson, MO is critical in this regard, as you would want to tell the truth but in the correct way.
- Understand You are Innocent Until Proven Guilty: Unfortunately, in today’s society, simply being accused of a crime automatically makes you guilty in the minds of many people. This stigma can negatively affect your mental health and lead to decisions you would not normally make. Fortunately, your Combs Waterkotte Ferguson, MO homicide attorney understands what you are going through.
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 Ferguson, MO
Facing homicide charges in or around Ferguson, 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. 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 Combs Waterkotte homicide legal team can support you in Ferguson, MO:
- Comprehensive Case Investigation: Our homicide attorneys will launch a thorough investigation into the facts of the case, reviewing police documents, forensic evidence, witness statements, and all relevant materials. They may also engage private investigators and expert witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Spot Weaknesses in the Prosecution’s Argument: Our dedicated homicide attorneys will examine every aspect of the case to uncover any flaws in the prosecution’s evidence. Identifying these weaknesses could lead to a dismissal of charges, a plea reduction, or a not-guilty verdict.
- Verify That Your Rights Were Respected: You have certain rights under Ferguson, MO and Missouri law, as well as the Bill of Rights of the U.S. Constitution. These rights are essential for ensuring a fair and impartial justice system. Our Ferguson, MO criminal defense attorneys have unfortunately encountered numerous instances 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 Ferguson, MO homicide arrests and interrogations are:
- Due Process Violations: When you are accused of homicide or any crime, you are entitled 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. 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 before conducting any questioning. This includes your right to remain silent, your right to an attorney, and the warning that anything said can be used in court. Officers are only required to read your Miranda rights if they detain and question you with the intent to use your statements in court. 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 get in touch online.
- Illegal Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures. Police must have reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you in Ferguson, MO and elsewhere, and must possess probable cause for an arrest. This means they must provide 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: Our team at Combs Waterkotte has access to a diverse network of experts in and around Ferguson, MO, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can enlist these experts to dispute the cause of death or other crucial factors in the case.
- Advocate for Lesser Charges: A skilled and proactive Ferguson, MO homicide attorney can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a guilty plea to a lesser charge, 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 Ferguson, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the best homicide lawyer in Ferguson, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our knowledgeable homicide lawyers, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for Ferguson, MO residents:
- Weapon Crime Defense Lawyer
- DWI Lawyer With Payment Plans
- Criminal Defense Lawyer with Payment Plans
Consult an Experienced Homicide Lawyer in Ferguson, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
As homicide in Ferguson, MO is a serious felony offense, anyone facing such charges should connect with a homicide lawyer in Ferguson, MO immediately. 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 dealing with a homicide charge anywhere near Ferguson, MO, don’t wait.
Contact an expert Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Ferguson, 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 assessment.
