Homicide lawyer in Florissant, MO. Facing a homicide charge in Florissant, 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 Florissant, MO or anywhere in Missouri, speaking with an experienced homicide lawyer right away is essential.
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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Homicide Charges in Florissant, 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 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 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 involves causing an individual’s death through reckless or negligent driving. Charges range from a misdemeanor to a felony, and penalties for vehicular manslaughter vary depending on whether drugs, alcohol, or extreme recklessness were involved.
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What Steps Should I Take if Accused of Homicide in Florissant, 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 are facing homicide charges in Florissant, MO, it’s a grave situation. Understanding the steps to take after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is essential. Our experienced Florissant, MO homicide legal team recommends the following actions:
- Contact a Lawyer: Engaging a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney in Florissant, MO by your side as soon as possible to help ensure a successful outcome. A good lawyer can help review police reports, collect evidence, talk to witnesses, and develop a strong defense. They can also seek ways to have charges reduced or dismissed and formulate an effective trial strategy. Reach us 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” during the reading of your Miranda rights, take that seriously. Saying the wrong thing during an investigation could sway the case against you and offer prosecutors evidence to demonstrate your guilt. Having a good criminal defense lawyer in Florissant, MO is critical in this regard, as you would want to tell the truth but in the correct way.
- Acknowledge Your Presumption of Innocence: 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 health and lead you to consider actions you might not otherwise contemplate. Fortunately, your Combs Waterkotte Florissant, 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 Importance of Hiring a Combs Waterkotte Florissant, MO Homicide Lawyer
Facing homicide charges in or around Florissant, 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 helps in Florissant, MO:
- Case Investigation: Our homicide attorneys will initiate a detailed investigation of the circumstances surrounding the facts of the case, reviewing police documents, forensic data, witness testimonies, and all relevant materials. They may also engage private investigators and expert witnesses to effectively challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
- Find Gaps in the Prosecution’s Case: Our relentless homicide lawyers will meticulously analyze every aspect of the case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. This could result in the dismissal of charges, a reduction in charges, or an acquittal.
- Verify That Your Rights Were Respected: You have protected rights guaranteed by Florissant, MO and Missouri law, as well as by the Bill of Rights of the U.S. Constitution. These rights are essential for ensuring a fair and impartial justice system. Unfortunately, our Florissant, MO criminal defense attorneys have witnessed many instances where clients’ rights were compromised. We are committed to defending your rights and securing your future throughout the Florissant, MO area. Three of the most violated rights in Florissant, MO homicide arrests and interrogations are:
- Violations of Due Process: When you are accused of homicide or any crime, you have the right to due process, ensuring fair treatment in the legal system. This includes being informed of the charges against you and the opportunity 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 Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court determined that law enforcement must inform you of your rights before conducting any questioning. This includes the right to remain silent, your right to legal representation, and the warning that anything said can be used in court. Police only need to read your Miranda rights if they detain and question you with the intent to use your statements in court. 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 reach out online.
- Unlawful Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment safeguards against unreasonable searches and seizures. Police must have reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you in Florissant, MO and elsewhere, and must possess probable cause for an arrest. This means they must present factual justification for their belief that a crime has occurred or is in progress. If evidence is obtained through an illegal search, it may be excluded from court.
- Engage Expert Witnesses: Combs Waterkotte has access to a diverse network of skilled professionals in and around Florissant, MO, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can enlist these specialists to dispute critical factors in your case, including the cause of death.
- Negotiate Lesser Charges: An experienced and aggressive Florissant, MO homicide attorney 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. At Combs Waterkotte, our lawyers prioritize your interests, guiding you while allowing you to make the final decision.
When you’re accused of homicide in the Florissant, MO area and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the leading homicide lawyer in Florissant, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our esteemed homicide attorneys, our entire staff offers expertise in the following areas for Florissant, MO residents:
Contact a Skilled Florissant, MO Homicide Lawyer Now at Combs Waterkotte
Given the severity of homicide charges, it’s crucial for anyone facing such allegations to consult a Florissant, MO homicide lawyer as soon as possible. Our experienced legal team understands 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 anywhere near Florissant, MO, don’t wait.
Get in touch with an expert Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Florissant, 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 no-obligation case review.
