Homicide Lawyer Kirkwood, MO

Homicide lawyer in Kirkwood, MO. Facing a homicide charge in Kirkwood, 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 Kirkwood, 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.

Types of Homicide Charges in Kirkwood, MO and Throughout Missouri

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

The most serious of homicide charges, first-degree murder involves a premeditated, intentional killing. This is class A felony, often carrying life imprisonment without eligibility for probation or parole, or even the death penalty depending on the circumstances.

Second-Degree Murder

Second-degree murder involves an intentional killing that was not premeditated. Also a class A felony, this offense can carry prison sentences ranging from 10 to 30 years, or even life. This differs from the first degree in that you may qualify for parole after serving more than 85 percent of the 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 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.

What Steps Should I Take if Accused of Homicide in Kirkwood, 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 Kirkwood, MO, it is a serious matter. Knowing what to do after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is crucial, and our skilled Kirkwood, MO homicide legal team suggests you take the following steps:

• Contact a Lawyer: It’s essential to have a competent Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney in Kirkwood, MO as soon as possible is crucial for achieving a favorable outcome. A qualified attorney can review police reports, collect critical evidence, speak with witnesses, and develop a robust defense strategy. They can also explore opportunities to reduce or dismiss charges and devise an effective trial plan. Give us a call at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
• Keep Quiet: 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, heed their warning. Saying the wrong thing during an investigation could sway the case against you and offer prosecutors evidence to demonstrate your guilt. It’s essential to have a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Kirkwood, MO who can help you navigate this situation and articulate your side appropriately.
• Acknowledge Your Presumption of Innocence: Sadly, in this day and age, being accused of a crime can lead many to presume your guilty. This stigma can negatively affect your mental health and lead you to consider actions you might not otherwise contemplate. Luckily for you, your Combs Waterkotte Kirkwood, MO homicide lawyer understands what you are going through.

The Significance of Choosing a Combs Waterkotte Homicide Lawyer in Kirkwood, MO

Facing homicide charges in or around Kirkwood, 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 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 Kirkwood, MO:

• Comprehensive Case Investigation: Our homicide attorneys will initiate a detailed investigation of the circumstances surrounding the facts of the case, reviewing police reports, forensic evidence, witness statements, and any other material. They may also work with private investigators and expert witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
• Identify Flaws in the Prosecution’s Case: Our relentless homicide attorneys will scrutinize every detail of the case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. Identifying these weaknesses could lead to a dismissal of charges, a plea reduction, or a successful acquittal.
• Make Sure Your Rights Weren’t Violated: Under Kirkwood, MO and Missouri law, as well as the U.S. Constitution’s Bill of Rights, you possess specific rights. These rights are essential for ensuring a fair and impartial justice system. Our Kirkwood, 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 Kirkwood, MO area. Here are three frequently violated rights during Kirkwood, MO homicide arrests and interrogations:
  • Due Process Violations: When accused of homicide, or any crime for that matter, 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. Withholding it is a violation of your due process rights.
  • Failure to Read the Miranda Warning: In Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court determined that police must inform you of your rights before questioning. This includes the right to remain silent, your right to a lawyer, 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 Kirkwood, MO and beyond. This means they must provide 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: Our team at Combs Waterkotte works with a wide network of skilled professionals in the Kirkwood, MO area, from forensic scientists and ballistics experts to medical examiners and crime scene analysts. 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 aggressive Kirkwood, MO homicide lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a plea to a lesser offense, 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’re accused of homicide in the Kirkwood, MO area and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the ideal homicide lawyer in Kirkwood, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert criminal defense from our experienced homicide attorneys, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Kirkwood and beyond:

• Drivers License Reinstatement Attorney
• Careless Imprudent Driving Attorneys
• Weapons Crime Attorney

Contact a Skilled Kirkwood, MO Homicide Lawyer Now at Combs Waterkotte

As homicide in Kirkwood, MO is a serious felony offense, anyone facing such charges should connect with a homicide lawyer in Kirkwood, MO immediately. Our experienced legal team understands 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 Kirkwood, MO, take action now.

Contact an expert Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Kirkwood, MO now to protect your rights and future while ensuring the best possible defense. Call (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free case review.