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 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 Carthage, MO and beyond.
Steps to Take If You’ve Been Arrested for a Carthage, MO Violent Crime
Being charged with a violent crime in Carthage, 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 Carthage, MO case is resolved, every action matters. Here’s what you should do:
- Remain Silent: Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney 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 Carthage, MO immediately.
- Contact a Combs Waterkotte Lawyer Immediately: The faster you hire an experienced violent crime lawyer in Carthage, MO, the stronger your defense will be. Early legal intervention can make a significant difference in your case.
- Do Not Discuss Your Carthage, MO Case: What you say can be used against you. Refrain from talking about your charges with anyone other than lawyer—especially on social media.
- 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.
With these stakes, you can’t afford to roll the dice with your future and freedom. You need a Combs Waterkotte Carthage, MO violent crime lawyer protecting your rights, proving your innocence, and fighting for your freedom in Carthage, MO. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to discuss the specifics of your case and get expert legal advice and guidance on next steps.
The Importance of Hiring a Leading Carthage, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
Facing violent crime charges in Carthage, 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 Carthage, 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 and misunderstandings happen. We work to expose inconsistencies and defend your reputation. - 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 Carthage, MO. - 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 like robbery or armed robbery, 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 the Carthage, MO area, you aren’t just choosing the ideal violent crime lawyer in and around Carthage, MO – you’re safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with leading defense from our experienced violent crime lawyers, our legal team is available 24/7 and provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Carthage and beyond:
Defense Strategies for Violent Crime Charges in Carthage, MO
Our experienced Carthage, MO violent crime legal team uses proven legal strategies such as:
- Self-Defense — If you acted to prevent harm to yourself or others, we present evidence that your actions were legally justified.
- No Intent to Harm — Many violent crime charges require intent. 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 — Eyewitness misidentification is common. We present alibis, surveillance footage, expert testimony, and more to prove your innocence.
- False Allegations — Some charges in Carthage, 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 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 Carthage, MO?
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:
- Client-First Mentality: We prioritize your needs, offering 24/7 availability, clear communication, and a strategy tailored to your case 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.
- Elite Defense Resources: We work with private investigators, forensic experts, and top legal professionals to strengthen your defense in Carthage, MO.
- Trial Ready: We’re not afraid to take your case to trial and fight for the best possible outcome in Carthage, MO.
Jasper County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Jasper County and Missouri.
Consequences of a Violent Crime Conviction in Carthage, MO
If convicted of a violent crime in Carthage, 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.
Beyond incarceration and fines, a conviction can have lasting repercussions in Carthage, 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
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.
Call Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free case review in Carthage, MO.