New Madrid County, MO

Homicide lawyer in New Madrid County, MO. Being charged with homicide in New Madrid County, 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 New Madrid County, MO or anywhere across Missouri, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced homicide lawyer right away.

Contact Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a free, one-on-one consultation. You’ll have the chance to discuss the specifics of your case with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our seasoned team has successfully handled over 10,000 cases just like yours.

The Different Types of New Madrid County, 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 New Madrid County, 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 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.

What Do I Do If I’m Accused Of Homicide in New Madrid County, 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 New Madrid County, MO, it’s a grave situation. Understanding the steps to take after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is essential. Our experienced New Madrid County, MO homicide legal team recommends the following actions:

• Hire an Attorney: Having a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in New Madrid County, MO by your side as soon as possible to help ensure a successful outcome. A qualified attorney can analyze police reports, collect critical evidence, interview witnesses, and develop a strong defense. They can also look for potential ways to get your charges reduced or outright dismissed, or plan an effective, winning trial strategy. Call us at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
• Do Not Say Anything: 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. 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. It’s essential to have a skilled criminal defense lawyer in New Madrid County, MO who can help you navigate this situation and articulate your side appropriately.
• Acknowledge Your Presumption of Innocence: 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 well-being and make you consider things that you would never do under better circumstances. Luckily for you, your Combs Waterkotte New Madrid County, MO homicide lawyer understands your situation and is here to help you find clarity and strength during this difficult time.

The Importance of Hiring a Combs Waterkotte New Madrid County, MO Homicide Lawyer

Facing homicide charges in or around New Madrid County, MO is a serious matter with significant consequences. You shouldn’t gamble with your future or choose a lawyer based on an advertisement. 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 New Madrid County, MO:

• Thorough Case Analysis: Our homicide attorneys will conduct an exhaustive investigation of the circumstances surrounding the facts of the case, reviewing police reports, forensic data, witness statements, and any other pertinent information. They may also collaborate with private investigators and expert witnesses to effectively challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
• 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 reduction in charges, or a successful acquittal.
• Make Sure Your Rights Weren’t Violated: You have specific rights guaranteed by New Madrid County, MO and Missouri law, as well as by the Bill of Rights of the U.S. Constitution. These rights protect you and help ensure that our justice system remains fair and impartial. Unfortunately, our New Madrid County, MO criminal defense attorneys have witnessed many instances where clients’ rights were compromised. We do everything in our power to protect your rights and future. Three of the most violated rights in New Madrid County, MO homicide arrests and interrogations are:
  • Violations of Due Process: When accused of homicide, or any crime for that matter, you are entitled 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 constitutes a violation of 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 prior to any 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 waiving these rights is an option, it’s best to assert your right to remain silent and immediately contact a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer at (314) 900-HELP or get in touch online.
  • Illegal Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment safeguards you from unreasonable searches and seizures. Police need reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you and must have probable cause to make an arrest in New Madrid County, MO and beyond. This means they must present facts justifying 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.
• Provide Expert Witnesses: Our team at Combs Waterkotte works with a wide network of experts in the New Madrid County, MO area, from forensic scientists and ballistics experts to medical examiners and crime scene analysts. Our attorneys can enlist these experts to dispute critical factors in your case, including the cause of death.
• Advocate for Lesser Charges: A skilled and aggressive New Madrid County, 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 compelling. At Combs Waterkotte, our lawyers prioritize your interests, guiding you while allowing you to make the final decision.

If you’re accused of homicide in New Madrid County, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting the leading homicide lawyer in New Madrid County, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our knowledgeable homicide attorneys, our entire staff provides expertise in the following areas for New Madrid County, MO residents:

• Weapons Crime Attorney
• DWI Administrative Hearing Lawyer
• Violent Crime Lawyer
• Drug Crimes Lawyer
• Gun Crime Lawyer
• Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer

Consult an Experienced Homicide Lawyer in New Madrid 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 New Madrid County, MO homicide attorney right away. 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 facing a homicide charge in or around New Madrid County, MO, take action now.

Contact a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in New Madrid 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 free case review.