Homicide lawyer in Independence, MO. Being charged with homicide in Independence, 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 Independence, 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 Independence, MO Homicide Charges
Homicide charges can differ significantly based on the circumstances surrounding the act and the intent behind it. Understanding the various types of homicide charges in Independence, MO that may apply is crucial:
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 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 Do I Do If I’m Accused Of Homicide in Independence, MO?
Homicide refers to the act of one individual causing 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 Independence, MO, it’s a grave situation. Understanding the steps to take after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is essential. Our experienced Independence, MO homicide legal team recommends the following actions:
- Consult a Lawyer: Engaging a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney on your side in Independence, MO as early as possible is critical to getting a successful outcome. A good lawyer can review police reports, gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and create a solid defense. They can also explore opportunities to reduce or dismiss charges and devise an effective trial plan. Call 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” while reading you your Miranda rights, take that seriously. Making an ill-timed statement during an investigation can significantly impact the outcome of your case and provide prosecutors with evidence to establish your guilt. Having a good criminal defense lawyer in Independence, 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, simply being accused of a crime automatically makes you guilty in the minds of many people. This stigma can negatively affect your mental well-being and make you consider things that you would never do under better circumstances. Thankfully, your Combs Waterkotte Independence, MO homicide lawyer is aware of the challenges you’re facing and can help you find hope amid adversity.
Jackson County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Jackson County and Missouri.
Why You Should Hire a Combs Waterkotte Homicide Lawyer in Independence, MO
If you’re facing homicide charges, the stakes are incredibly high in Independence, MO. 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 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 Independence, MO:
- Case Investigation: Our homicide lawyers will initiate a detailed investigation into the facts of the case, reviewing police documents, forensic evidence, witness testimonies, and any other material. They may also engage private investigators and expert witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
- Identify Flaws in the Prosecution’s Case: Our dedicated homicide attorneys will examine every aspect of the case to uncover any flaws in the prosecution’s evidence. This diligent approach may result in the dismissal of charges, a reduction in charges, or a successful acquittal.
- Verify That Your Rights Were Respected: You have specific rights under Independence, 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 Independence, 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. Here are three frequently violated rights during Independence, 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. 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: In Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court established that police must inform you of your rights prior to any conducting any questioning. This includes your 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 reach out online.
- Unlawful Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. Police must have reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you in Independence, MO and elsewhere, and must possess probable cause for an arrest. This means they need to provide factual evidence to support their belief that a crime has occurred or is in progress. Evidence gathered through unlawful searches may be deemed inadmissible in court.
- Engage Expert Witnesses: Combs Waterkotte has access to a diverse network of experts in and around Independence, MO, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can call these specialists to dispute critical factors in your case, including the cause of death.
- Negotiate for Reduced Charges: A skilled and aggressive Independence, 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 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 facing homicide charges in the Independence, MO area and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the leading homicide lawyer in Independence, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert criminal defense from our esteemed homicide lawyers, our entire legal team provides expertise in the following areas for Independence, MO residents:
Consult an Experienced Homicide Lawyer in Independence, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
As homicide in Independence, MO is a serious felony offense, anyone facing such charges should connect with a homicide lawyer in Independence, MO immediately. Our experienced legal team has a deep understanding of 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 Independence, MO, take action now.
Contact an expert Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Independence, 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, no-obligation case review.
