Violent crime lawyer in Cape Girardeau, MO. Being accused of a violent crime in or around Cape Girardeau, MO is life-altering, to say the least. A conviction can mean lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you’re facing charges, you need a skilled violent crime lawyer in Cape Girardeau, MO who knows how to fight aggressively for your rights and build a strategic 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 Cape Girardeau, MO and beyond.
Legal Videos
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How Does Plea Bargaining Work?
Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs discusses how he negotiates the most favorable plea bargaining deals for his clients. You can read a transcript of the interview below.
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St. Louis defense attorney Chris Combs explains how a private defense lawyer can offer the resources and attention to detail that many public defenders don't have time for. You can read a …
Are Private Attorneys Better Than Public Defenders?
Are Private Attorneys Better Than Public Defenders? Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs talks about the differences in a defendant's experience when working with a public defender vs. a …
What Is the Process For Getting Bail in Missouri?
What Is the Process For Getting Bail in Missouri? If you've been arrested, the first thing you want to do is get out of jail and get back home. Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs …
Everything You Need to Know About Juvenile Criminal Defense Cases in Missouri
Everything You Need to Know About Juvenile Criminal Defense Cases in Missouri. Attorneys Christopher Combs and Matthew Brown from Combs Waterkotte answer the most commonly asked questions about …
How Does Plea Bargaining Work?
Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs discusses how he negotiates the most favorable plea bargaining deals for his clients. You can read a transcript of the interview below.
Can Criminal Charges Be Dropped?
Can your criminal case get dismissed? How can your defense attorney get your case dismissed? Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs discusses what needs to happen to have your charges …
Public Defender Caseloads Are High. Can I Trust One With My Case?
St. Louis defense attorney Chris Combs explains how a private defense lawyer can offer the resources and attention to detail that many public defenders don't have time for. You can read a …
What to Do If You’ve Been Arrested for a Violent Crime in Cape Girardeau, MO
Being charged with a violent crime in Cape Girardeau, MO can be overwhelming, but remember—you have rights. The experienced violent crime legal team at Combs Waterkotte has extensive experience in defending these charges, and we’re here to help. Avoid making mistakes that could impact your case or harm your defense. Until your Cape Girardeau, MO case is resolved, every action matters. Here’s what you should do:
- Invoke Your Right to Silence: 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 Cape Girardeau, MO, and no one else.
- Seek Legal Representation Immediately: Time is critical. Hiring a skilled Cape Girardeau, MO violent crime lawyer early can help protect your rights and improve your chances of the best possible outcome.
- Keep Your Cape Girardeau, MO Case Private: Avoid discussing your charges with anyone—including friends, family, or on social media. Any statements you make could be used against you.
- Preserve Crucial Evidence: If you have any proof that supports your case—such as surveillance footage, test messages, or witness information—provide it to your attorney as soon as possible.
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A felony can have long-term consequences. Act quickly and carefully to protect your future and your livelihood.
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Contact the experienced Combs Waterkotte felony lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP to get started on your defense.
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Understanding Violent Crimes in Cape Girardeau, 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 Cape Girardeau, MO community, relationships, and more.
Don’t gamble with your future. A skilled violent crime lawyer in Cape Girardeau, 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 Cape Girardeau, MO.
The Importance of Hiring a Leading Cape Girardeau, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
Facing violent crime charges in Cape Girardeau, 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 Cape Girardeau, 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
Murder and manslaughter charges carry the harshest penalties. We bring the experience and resources needed to fight for the best possible outcome in Cape Girardeau, 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 Cape Girardeau, MO. - Robbery & Armed Robbery
Dangerous felony charges like robbery or armed robbery, require a strategic defense to challenge evidence and intent—precisely what a Combs Waterkotte Cape Girardeau, MO violent crime lawyer provides throughout the Cape Girardeau, MO area. - Kidnapping
These cases demand skilled legal defense in Cape Girardeau, MO. We dissect the prosecution’s case, exposing weaknesses that could lead to reduced or dismissed charges.
When you hire Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime legal team in the Cape Girardeau, MO area, you’re not just selecting the ideal violent crime lawyer in Cape Girardeau, MO and beyond – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert defense from our knowledgeable violent crime attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Cape Girardeau and beyond:
Possible Defenses for Your Violent Crime Lawyer in Cape Girardeau, MO
The right defense can mean the difference between a conviction and freedom in Cape Girardeau, MO. Our experienced violent crime legal team evaluates every angle to build a strong case, including:
- Self-Defense — You have the right to protect yourself. This defense justifies the use of reasonable force to protect yourself from imminent harm. We work to prove you acted lawfully.
- Lack of Intent — Many violent crime charges require intent. We work to show your actions were accidental or misinterpreted.
- Lack of Evidence — If the evidence against you is weak or improperly obtained, we fight to get charges dismissed or reduced.
- Misidentification — Eyewitness misidentification is common. We present alibis, surveillance footage, expert testimony, and more to prove your innocence.
- Unfounded Allegations — In some cases, accusations stem from personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings. We stop at nothing in Cape Girardeau, MO to expose inconsistencies 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.
Why Choose a Combs Waterkotte Cape Girardeau, MO Violent Crime Lawyer?
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 Cape Girardeau, MO because:
- Client-First Mentality: We keep you informed, provide 24/7 access, and ensure you’re never left in the dark about your Cape Girardeau, MO case.
- Extensive Criminal Law Expertise: With decades of success in courts throughout the Cape Girardeau, MO area, we know how to navigate even the toughest cases.
- Resources: We have a skilled support team, private investigators, and a network of forensic experts, ready to help defend you in Cape Girardeau, 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.
Cape Girardeau County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Cape Girardeau County and Missouri.
Consequences of a Violent Crime Conviction in Cape Girardeau, MO
Violent crimes carry severe consequences in Cape Girardeau, MO, including substantial prison time and hefty fines. Every case is unique. The penalties largely depend on the specific charge, circumstances of the offense, and your prior criminal history. For example, a first-degree murder conviction carries a sentence of life in prison without parole or the death penalty, while a conviction for third-degree assault is up to 4 years in prison and fines up to $10,000, and the unlawful use of a weapon is a class D felony, carrying up to 7 years in prison.
Beyond incarceration and fines, a conviction can have lasting repercussions in Cape Girardeau, MO, including:
- A felony record that follows you for life
- 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 Cape Girardeau, MO Right Away
If you’re facing a violent crime charge in Cape Girardeau, MO, don’t leave your future to chance. An experienced and aggressive violent crime lawyer can evaluate your case, develop a strong defense, and work toward 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 Cape Girardeau, MO.
