Homicide Lawyer Troy, MO

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

The Different Types of Troy, MO Homicide Charges

Homicide charges vary depending on the circumstances and intent behind the killing. It’s important to understand the different types of homicide charges that could apply:

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

• Hire an Attorney: It’s essential to have a competent Combs Waterkotte homicide attorney on your side in Troy, MO as early as possible is critical to getting a successful outcome. A qualified attorney can review police reports, collect critical evidence, interview witnesses, and build a solid defense. They can also look for potential ways to get your charges reduced or outright dismissed, or plan an effective, winning trial strategy. 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” as they read your Miranda rights, take that seriously. Making statements 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 Troy, MO is crucial to ensuring you communicate effectively.
• Acknowledge Your Presumption of Innocence: Sadly, in this day and age, being accused of a crime can lead many to presume your guilty. This perception can significantly impact your mental well-being and lead you to consider actions you might not otherwise contemplate. Fortunately, your Combs Waterkotte Troy, MO homicide lawyer understands what you are going through.

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

Facing homicide charges in or around Troy, MO is a serious matter with significant consequences. It’s critical not to leave your future to chance or to rely on a lawyer whose name you saw 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 Troy, MO Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyers can assist you:

• Thorough Case Analysis: Our homicide legal team will initiate a detailed investigation into your 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 tenacious 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.
• Ensure Your Rights are Protected: You have certain rights under Troy, MO and Missouri law, as well as 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 Troy, 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 Troy, MO homicide arrests and interrogations are:
  • Violations of Due Process: When accused of homicide, or any crime for that matter, you have the right to due process, ensuring fair treatment throughout the legal system. This means you’re entitled to receive notice of the charges against you and the opportunity 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: According to Miranda v. Arizona, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that police must inform you of your rights before questioning. This includes the right to remain silent, the right to legal representation, and the warning that anything said can be used in court. Officers only need 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.
  • Unlawful Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment safeguards against unreasonable searches and seizures. Police need reasonable doubt to stop or investigate you and must have probable cause to make an arrest in Troy, MO and beyond. This means they must provide factual justification for their belief that a crime was or is being committed. If evidence is obtained through an illegal search, it may be excluded from court.
• Engage Expert Witnesses: Combs Waterkotte has access to a diverse network of experts in the Troy, MO area, from forensic scientists and ballistics experts to medical examiners and crime scene analysts. Our attorneys can call these specialists to dispute the cause of death or other crucial factors in the case.
• Advocate for Lesser Charges: A talented and aggressive Troy, MO homicide attorney 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 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 the Troy, MO area and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just hiring the best homicide lawyer in Troy, MO and throughout Missouri – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our experienced homicide lawyers, our entire legal team offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Troy and beyond:

• Weapons Crime Attorney
• DWI Administrative Hearing Lawyer
• Violent Crime Lawyer

Consult an Experienced Homicide Lawyer in Troy, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

As homicide in Troy, MO is a serious felony offense, anyone facing such charges should connect with a homicide lawyer in Troy, MO immediately. 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 dealing with a homicide charge in or around Troy, MO, don’t delay.

Get in touch with a skilled Combs Waterkotte homicide lawyer in Troy, 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.