Springfield, MO

Homicide lawyer in Springfield, MO. Facing a homicide charge in Springfield, MO is one of the most severe legal challenges anyone can encounter. These charges carry serious consequences, including lengthy prison sentences or even the death penalty. If you have been accused of homicide in Springfield, MO or anywhere else in Missouri, you need to speak 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.

Types of Homicide Charges in Springfield, 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

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.

What Should I Do If I’m Charged with Homicide in Springfield, MO?

Homicide is a manner of death, 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 Springfield, MO, it’s a grave situation. Understanding the steps to take after being questioned, arrested, or indicted is essential. Our experienced Springfield, MO homicide legal team recommends the following actions:

• Hire an Attorney: Having a Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Springfield, MO by your side as soon as possible to help ensure a successful outcome. A good lawyer can analyze police reports, gather critical evidence, interview witnesses, and develop a strong defense. They can also explore opportunities to reduce or dismiss charges and devise an effective trial plan. Reach us at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
• Do Not Say Anything: When police advise you that “Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law” as they read 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. Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Springfield, MO is crucial to ensuring you communicate effectively.
• Understand You are Innocent Until Proven Guilty: 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 lead to decisions you would not normally make. Luckily for you, your Combs Waterkotte Springfield, MO homicide attorney is aware of the challenges you’re facing and can help you find hope amid adversity.

Why You Should Hire a Combs Waterkotte Homicide Lawyer in Springfield, MO

If you’re facing homicide charges, the stakes are incredibly high in Springfield, 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 Springfield, MO:

• Thorough Case Analysis: Our homicide lawyers will initiate a detailed investigation of the circumstances surrounding your case, examining police documents, forensic data, witness accounts, and any other pertinent information. 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 scrutinize every detail of the case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. This could lead to a dismissal of charges, a plea reduction, or an acquittal.
• Verify That Your Rights Were Respected: Under Springfield, 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 Springfield, MO criminal defense attorneys have witnessed many instances where clients’ rights were compromised. We are dedicated to defending your rights and securing your future throughout the Springfield, MO area. Here are three frequently violated rights during Springfield, MO homicide arrests and interrogations:
  • Due Process Violations: When you are accused of homicide or any crime, you are entitled to due process, ensuring fair treatment in 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 infringes on your due process rights.
  • Failure to Read the Miranda Warning: According to Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that law enforcement must inform you of your rights before conducting any questioning. This includes the 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 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 Springfield, MO and elsewhere, and must possess probable cause for an arrest. This means they must present factual justification for their belief that a crime was or is being committed. Evidence gathered through unlawful searches may be deemed inadmissible in court.
• Secure Expert Testimony: Our team at Combs Waterkotte collaborates with a broad array of experts in and around Springfield, MO, including forensic scientists, ballistics specialists, and medical examiners. Our attorneys can enlist these specialists to challenge key elements of the case, such as the cause of death.
• Negotiate Lesser Charges: A skilled and aggressive Springfield, 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 compelling. At Combs Waterkotte, our lawyers prioritize your interests, guiding you while allowing you to make the final decision.

If you are facing homicide charges in the Springfield, MO area and choose Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing the leading homicide lawyer in Springfield, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting 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 Springfield, MO residents:

• Assault Lawyer
• Rape Defense Lawyer
• Sex Offense Lawyers
• DWI Attorney
• Crime Defense Lawyers
• Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
• Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
• Criminal Lawyer

Reach Out to an Expert Springfield, MO Homicide Lawyer Now at Combs Waterkotte

Since homicide is a serious felony crime, it’s essential for anyone facing these charges to speak with a Springfield, MO homicide attorney right away. 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 confronted with a homicide charge in or around Springfield, MO, take action now.

Contact a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Springfield, 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 assessment.