Violent crime lawyer in Carthage, MO. Being accused of a violent crime in or around Carthage, 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 Carthage, 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 reach out online to schedule a free, confidential consultation with an expert criminal defense attorney. Our violent crime legal team has over 40 years of experience and has successfully handled more than 10,000 cases just like yours in the Carthage, MO area and across Missouri.
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What to Do in Carthage, MO If You’ve Been Arrested for a Violent Crime
Facing violent crime charges in Carthage, 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 Carthage, MO case. Follow these steps:
- Stay Silent: Do not answer any questions from law enforcement without an attorney 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 Carthage, MO, and no one else.
- Contact a Combs Waterkotte Lawyer Immediately: Time is critical. Hiring a skilled Carthage, MO violent crime lawyer early can help protect your rights and improve your chances of the best possible outcome.
- Avoid Talking to Anyone: 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: 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 Carthage, MO
Violent crimes include any criminal act involving force, injury, or threats of harm. These offenses are often classified as felonies, meaning prosecutors in the Carthage, MO area aggressively seek maximum penalties—especially in cases involving serious injury or loss of life. A conviction can derail your future, impacting everything from employment to personal relationships.
Don’t gamble with your future. A skilled violent crime lawyer in Carthage, 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 Carthage, MO.
The Importance of Hiring a Leading Carthage, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
Prosecutors take violent crime charges seriously in Carthage, MO, and they don’t hesitate in pursuing the harshest penalties. That’s exactly why hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney is critical. At Combs Waterkotte, we have a proven track record of success defending clients in Carthage, MO against a wide range of violent crime charges, including:
- 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
We build strong defenses against first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and manslaughter charges. Experience matters; you should not go at it alone when faced with types of charges. - Weapons Charges
Whether you’re facing unlawful possession or use of a firearm in Carthage, MO, we challenge the charges to protect your freedom. - Robbery & Armed Robbery
Dangerous felony charges can mean years or even decades in prison. We work aggressively to dispute evidence, intent, and any violations of your rights. - Kidnapping
Complex cases need skilled criminal defense attorneys who understand how to challenge the prosecution’s case at every level.

When you hire Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime lawyer in or around Carthage, MO, you’re not just hiring the ideal violent crime lawyer in Carthage, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with top defense from our esteemed violent crime lawyers, our legal team is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for Carthage, MO residents:
Possible Defenses for Your Violent Crime Lawyer in Carthage, MO
Our experienced Carthage, MO violent crime legal team uses proven legal strategies such as:
- Self-Defense — If you acted to protect yourself or others from imminent harm, we work to prove your actions were justified.
- No Intent to Harm — Without intent, many violent crime charges don’t stand. We work to show your actions were accidental or misinterpreted.
- Insufficient Evidence — If the case against you is weak or relies on illegally obtained evidence, we push for dismissal or reduced charges.
- Mistaken Identity — Eyewitness misidentification is common. We present alibis, surveillance footage, expert testimony, and more to prove your innocence.
- Unfounded Allegations — Some charges in Carthage, MO arise from false claims, personal grudges, or exaggerations. We challenge inconsistencies to protect your reputation and future.
Free book
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 Carthage, MO Violent Crime Lawyer?
Not all law firms near Carthage, MO are the same. At Combs Waterkotte, we take a strategic and aggressive approach to defending violent crime charges in Carthage, 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 Carthage, MO.
- Decades of Criminal Defense Experience: With 40+ years of combined legal experience, we know how to build winning defense strategies in Carthage, MO.
- Access to Top Resources: We work with private investigators, forensic experts, and top legal professionals to strengthen your defense in Carthage, 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.
Jasper County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Jasper County and Missouri.
What Are the Penalties for a Violent Crime Conviction in Carthage, MO?
Violent crimes carry severe consequences in Carthage, 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 Carthage, MO, including:
- A permanent felony record
- 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

Your Future is on the Line — Get Help Today From a Combs Waterkotte Carthage, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
Being accused of a violent crime in Carthage, 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.
Take the first step toward your defense—call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free consultation in Carthage, MO.

