Homicide lawyer in Osage County, MO. Facing a homicide charge in Osage County, 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 Osage County, 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.
Legal Videos
Homicide Charges in Osage County, MO and Across Missouri
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 Osage 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 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.
-
Protect Your Life
![Image]()
Protect Your Life
A felony can have long-term consequences. Act quickly and carefully to protect your future and your livelihood.
Reach Out Now
-
Know Your Next Steps
![Image]()
Know Your Next Steps
Wondering what happens after your felony arrest? The skilled Combs Waterkotte attorneys have the answers.
Stay Informed
-
Title
![Image]()
Ready to Talk to an Expert?
Contact the experienced Combs Waterkotte felony lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP to get started on your defense.
Get Started
What Do I Do If I’m Accused Of Homicide in Osage County, MO?
Homicide occurs when one individual causes 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.
If you’re accused of homicide in Osage County, MO, it is a serious matter. Knowing what to do after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is crucial, and our skilled Osage County, MO homicide legal team suggests you take the following steps:
- Hire an Attorney: Engaging a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney in Osage County, MO as soon as possible is crucial for achieving a favorable outcome. A good lawyer can help review police reports, gather evidence, talk to witnesses, and develop a strong defense. 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.
- 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, heed their warning. 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 Osage County, MO who can help you navigate this situation and articulate your side appropriately.
- Acknowledge Your Presumption of Innocence: Unfortunately, in today’s society, many individuals jump to conclusions, viewing an accusation as a sign of guilt. This can deeply alter your mental health and make you consider things that you would never do under better circumstances. Luckily for you, your Combs Waterkotte Osage County, MO homicide attorney is aware of the challenges you’re facing and can help you find hope amid adversity.
Osage County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Osage County and Missouri.
Why You Should Hire a Combs Waterkotte Homicide Lawyer in Osage County, MO
If you’re facing homicide charges, the stakes are incredibly high in Osage County, MO. 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 be the difference between a reduced sentence or freedom and a life behind bars. Here’s how the Combs Waterkotte homicide legal team helps in Osage County, MO:
- Case Investigation: Our homicide legal team will launch a thorough investigation into the facts of the case, reviewing police reports, forensic evidence, witness statements, and any other material. They may also collaborate with private investigators and expert witnesses to effectively challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
- Identify Flaws in the Prosecution’s Case: Our dedicated homicide lawyers will scrutinize every detail of the case to find flaws in the prosecution’s evidence. This diligent approach may result in the dismissal of charges, a plea reduction, or an acquittal.
- Ensure Your Rights are Protected: Under Osage County, 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. Unfortunately, our Osage 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 Osage 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 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 Provide the Miranda Warning: In the landmark case of Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court established that law enforcement must inform you of your rights before questioning. This includes your right to remain silent, the 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.
- 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 Osage County, MO and elsewhere, and must possess probable cause for an arrest. This means they must present factual evidence to support their belief that a crime was or is being committed. If evidence is obtained through an illegal search, it may be excluded from court.
- Provide Expert Witnesses: Our team at Combs Waterkotte collaborates with a broad array of skilled professionals in and around Osage County, MO, from forensic scientists and ballistics experts to medical examiners and crime scene analysts. Our attorneys can call these experts to dispute critical factors in your case, including the cause of death.
- Negotiate for Reduced Charges: An experienced and proactive Osage County, MO homicide lawyer can negotiate with the prosecution for reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a plea to a lesser offense, especially 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.
If you’re accused of homicide in Osage County, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just hiring the ideal homicide lawyer in Osage County, 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 Osage County, MO residents:
Reach Out to an Expert Osage County, MO Homicide Lawyer Now at Combs Waterkotte
Given the severity of homicide charges, it’s crucial for anyone facing such allegations to consult a Osage County, MO homicide lawyer as soon as possible. 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 dealing with a homicide charge in or around Osage County, MO, take action now.
Get in touch with a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Osage County, 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 no-obligation case assessment.
