Violent crime lawyer in California, MO. If you’ve been accused of or questioned about a violent crime in California, MO, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A conviction can lead to severe penalties, including long-term imprisonment, steep fines, and a criminal record that impacts your entire life. You need a dedicated violent crime lawyer in California, MO who knows how to challenge the prosecution and develop a strong defense strategy.
Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation. We have over 40 years of experience and a track record of successfully handling more than 10,000 cases just like yours in California, MO and beyond.
What to Do If You’ve Been Arrested for a Violent Crime in California, MO
When you’re charged with a violent crime in California, MO, it is important to remember you have rights. Also, the Combs Waterkotte violent crime attorneys have extensive experience in defending these charges. Don’t add to the already daunting charges by doing something to harm your case. After all, the problems created by your California, MO arrest won’t be resolved until a successful outcome is reached. Here’s what to do:
- Stay Silent: Do not speak to law enforcement without a lawyer present. You can’t face anything harsher for exercising your right to remain silent. But you can definitely damage your case by speaking to someone else. Talk to your violent crime lawyer in California, MO, and no one else.
- Hire a Combs Waterkotte Violent Crime Lawyer Right Away: The sooner you hire an experienced California, MO violent crime attorney, the better your chances of building a strong defense and getting the best possible outcome.
- Keep Your California, MO Case Private: Discussing your case with family, friends, or on social media can hurt your defense.
- Preserve Crucial Evidence: Any evidence that supports your innocence, such as messages, videos, or potential witnesses, should be handed over to your legal team immediately.
Understanding Violent Crimes in California, MO
A violent crime is any crime that involves violence or the threat of violence. Many violent crimes are felony offenses, for which prosecutors will seek the maximum sentence, particularly if the alleged victim was injured or killed. If convicted, you’ll face lifelong consequences—including your career, standing in the California, MO community, relationships, and more.
With so much at stake, you need a dedicated California, MO violent crime lawyer who will fight for rights and freedom. Call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to start building your defense.
Why Choosing the Right Violent Crime Lawyer in California, MO Matters
Facing violent crime charges in California, MO means prosecutors will push for the harshest penalties possible. That’s why you need a skilled criminal defense attorney who knows how to fight back. At Combs Waterkotte, we bring decades of experience defending California, MO clients against violent crime allegations, such as:
- Assault & Battery
We challenge the prosecution’s case to reduce charges and protect your future. - Domestic Violence
Misunderstandings and false claims can destroy lives. We uncover the truth and fight for your innocence. - Homicide / Murder Charges
Facing charges for first-degree murder, second-degree murder, or manslaughter? These cases require a meticulous defense strategy. Our experienced attorneys know how to challenge the prosecution’s case and protect your rights. - Weapons Charges
If a firearm or other weapon is involved, penalties can be even more severe. We help fight unlawful possession and usage charges in the California, MO area. - Robbery & Armed Robbery
Dangerous felony charges require a strategic defense to challenge evidence and intent—precisely what a Combs Waterkotte California, MO violent crime lawyer provides throughout the California, MO area. - Kidnapping
These serious charges require a tough defense. We analyze every aspect of the California, MO case to challenge weak evidence and unfair allegations.
When you partner with Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime attorney in California, MO, you aren’t just choosing a top-rated violent crime lawyer in California, MO and beyond – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to top defense from our esteemed violent crime lawyers, our legal team is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for California, MO residents:
Defense Strategies for Violent Crime Charges in California, MO
A strong defense is the difference between conviction and freedom. Our expert violent crime legal team explores all possible defenses, including:
- Self-Defense — If you acted to protect yourself or others from imminent harm, we work to prove your actions were justified.
- Lack of Intent — Many violent crime charges require intent. We work to show your actions were accidental or misinterpreted.
- Lack of Evidence — If the case against you is weak or relies on illegally obtained evidence, we push for dismissal or reduced charges.
- Mistaken Identity — Mistaken identity is a leading cause of wrongful convictions. We gather alibi evidence and expert analysis to prove you were not involved.
- False Allegations — If you’ve been accused due to personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings in the California, MO area, we expose contradictions in the prosecution’s case.

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How to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Charged with a crime? The lawyer you hire matters. Combs Waterkotte, recognized for top-tier criminal defense in Missouri and Southern Illinois, created this guide to help you find the right attorney. Learn what to look for, key questions to ask, and red flags to avoid.
What Makes Combs Waterkotte the Best Choice for Your Violent Crime Lawyer in California, MO?
When facing serious charges, choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference. Combs Waterkotte stands out as the go-to violent crime lawyer in California, MO because:
- Client-Centered Approach: We prioritize your needs, offering 24/7 availability, clear communication, and a strategy tailored to your case in California, MO.
- Experience and Expertise: With over four decades of combined experience, we bring unparalleled expertise to every criminal defense case.
- Resources: We have a skilled support team, private investigators, and a network of forensic experts, ready to help defend you in California, MO.
- Trial Ready: A lot of criminal defense law firms are quick to plea bargain and avoid going to trial at all costs. Not Combs Waterkotte. We fight relentlessly to protect your rights, no matter the jurisdiction or judge, and achieve the best possible outcome.
Moniteau County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Moniteau County and Missouri.
The Harsh Reality of a Violent Crime Conviction in California, MO
A violent crime conviction in California, MO can change your life forever. Penalties vary based on the severity of the charge, the details of the offense, and your criminal history. For instance, a first-degree murder conviction results in life without parole of the death penalty, while third-degree assault could lead up to 4 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. Even an unlawful weapons charge as a class D felony carries a sentence of up to 7 years in prison.
A conviction can also lead to significant long-term consequences in California, MO, including:
- A felony record that follows you for life
- To face losing your professional license and your career
- Difficulty securing jobs and housing
- Immigration visa or green card revocation, citizenship application denial, or deportation
Take Action Now — Consult a Violent Crime Lawyer in California, MO Right Away
A violent crime charge in California, MO can put your future at risk. You need a skilled and determined violent crime lawyer who will access your case, build a strategic defense, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Take the first step toward your defense—call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free consultation in California, MO.