Violent crime lawyer in California, MO. Facing violent crime charges in California, MO is a serious, life-changing event. A conviction can result in years behind bars, huge fines, and a criminal record that follows you forever. You need an experienced violent crime lawyer in California, MO who will fight tirelessly to defend your rights and build a powerful legal defense.
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
Facing violent crime charges in California, MO is a serious matter, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Combs Waterkotte, we understand how high the stakes are, and we know how to tirelessly defend your rights. The actions you take after an arrest can make a significant difference in your California, MO case. Follow these steps:
- Remain Silent: Do not speak to law enforcement without a lawyer present. You are protected by the right to remain silent. Speaking without legal guidance can seriously damage your case. Instead, consult with a trusted violent crime lawyer in California, MO immediately.
- Contact a Combs Waterkotte Lawyer Immediately: The faster you hire an experienced violent crime lawyer in California, MO, the stronger your defense will be. Early legal intervention can make a significant difference in your case.
- Avoid Talking to Anyone: Discussing your case with family, friends, or on social media can hurt your defense.
- Collect and Share Evidence: If you have evidence supporting your innocence, such as videos, messages, or witness contacts, share them with your attorney immediately.
Defining Violent Crimes in California, MO
A violent crime is any offense involving physical harm or the threat of harm against another person. Most violent crimes are classified as felonies, meaning prosecutors in the California, MO area often push for the harshest penalties—especially if someone was injured or killed. A conviction can affect every part of your life, from your career and reputation to your personal relationships.
Don’t gamble with your future. A skilled violent crime lawyer in California, MO can help protect your rights and build a strong defense. Call Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the legal support you need in California, MO.
The Importance of Hiring a Leading California, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
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
From simple assault to aggravated assault, we fight to protect your rights and minimize penalties. - Domestic Violence
False accusations can turn your life upside down. We work to challenge inconsistencies and defend your reputation in California, MO. - Homicide / Murder Charges
Murder and manslaughter charges carry the harshest penalties. We bring the experience and resources needed to fight for the best possible outcome in California, MO. - Weapons Charges
When firearms or other weapons are involved, penalties escalate quickly. We fight to defend against charges of unlawful possession, use, and related offenses in California, MO. - 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 cases demand skilled legal defense in California, MO. We dissect the prosecution’s case, exposing weaknesses that could lead to reduced or dismissed charges.
If you choose Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime lawyer in or around California, MO, you aren’t just hiring a top-rated violent crime lawyer in California, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to leading defense from our esteemed violent crime lawyers, our staff is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for residents in California and beyond:
How Our Violent Crime Lawyer Defends Against Charges in California, MO
The right defense can mean the difference between a conviction and freedom in California, MO. Our experienced violent crime legal team evaluates every angle to build a strong case, including:
- Self-Defense — If you acted to prevent harm to yourself or others, we present evidence that your actions were legally justified.
- Lack of Intent — Without intent, many violent crime charges don’t stand. If you didn’t intend harm, the charges might not hold up in court. This defense highlights the absence of the necessary mental state to commit the crime, like accident actions.
- 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 — False identifications happen. We use alibi evidence, surveillance footage, and expert testimony to prove you weren’t involved.
- False Allegations — Some charges in California, MO arise from false claims, personal grudges, or exaggerations. We challenge inconsistencies to protect your reputation and future.

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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, created this guide to help you find the right attorney. Learn what to look for, key questions to ask, and red flags to avoid.
Why Trust Combs Waterkotte for Your Violent Crime Defense in California, MO?
Not all law firms near California, MO are the same. At Combs Waterkotte, we take a strategic and aggressive approach to defending violent crime charges in California, MO, offering:
- Unwavering Client Support: Our clients are our priority. We keep you involved in each step of your case, providing 24/7 support, clear communication, and personalized service in California, MO.
- Extensive Criminal Law Expertise: With decades of success in courts throughout the California, MO area, we know how to navigate even the toughest cases.
- Access to Top Resources: We have a skilled support team, private investigators, and a network of forensic experts, ready to help defend you in California, MO.
- Fierce Courtroom Advocacy: 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.
Consequences of a Violent Crime Conviction in California, MO
If convicted of a violent crime in California, MO, you face life-altering penalties that go beyond just prison time. The punishment depends on the charge, circumstances, and your past record. For example, first-degree murder can mean life in prison or the death penalty, while third-degree assault carries up to 4 years behind bars and $10,000 in fines. Even a class D felony weapons charge can result in up to 7 years in prison.
In addition to your prison sentence and fines, you’ll have:
- A permanent felony record
- To face losing your career and any professional license(s)
- Difficulty gaining employment or finding a place to live
- Risk of deportation, visa denial, or citizenship revocation
Take Action Now — Consult a Violent Crime Lawyer in California, MO Right Away
Being accused of a violent crime in California, MO is serious, but the right defense can make all the difference. A knowledgeable violent crime lawyer can analyze your case, challenge the prosecution, and work aggressively to protect your rights.
Don’t wait—call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a free consultation in California, MO.