Violent crime lawyer in Columbia, MO. Being accused of a violent crime in or around Columbia, 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 Columbia, 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 Columbia, MO and beyond.
Legal Videos
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 …
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 in Columbia, MO If You’ve Been Arrested for a Violent Crime
Facing violent crime charges in Columbia, 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 Columbia, MO case. Follow these steps:
- Stay Silent: Do not answer any questions from law enforcement without a lawyer present. You have the right to remain silent, and exercising it won’t make things worse—but saying the wrong thing could. Speak only to your violent crime lawyer in Columbia, MO, and no one else.
- Contact a Combs Waterkotte Lawyer Immediately: Time is critical. Hiring a skilled Columbia, MO violent crime lawyer early can help protect your rights and improve your chances of the best possible outcome.
- Avoid Talking to Anyone: 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.
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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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Wondering what happens after your felony arrest? The skilled Combs Waterkotte attorneys have the answers.
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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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What is Considered a Violent Crime in Columbia, 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 Columbia, 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.
With so much at stake, you need a dedicated Columbia, 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 Columbia, MO Matters
Prosecutors take violent crime charges seriously in Columbia, 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 Columbia, MO against a wide range of violent crime charges, including:
- 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 Columbia, 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 Columbia, MO. - Weapons Charges
Whether you’re facing unlawful possession or use of a firearm in Columbia, MO, we challenge the charges to protect your freedom. - Robbery & Armed Robbery
Dangerous felony charges require a strategic defense to challenge evidence and intent—precisely what a Combs Waterkotte Columbia, MO violent crime lawyer provides throughout the Columbia, MO area. - Kidnapping
These cases demand skilled legal defense in Columbia, 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 legal team in the Columbia, MO area, you’re not just hiring a leading violent crime lawyer in Columbia, MO and beyond – you’re safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to top defense from our experienced violent crime attorneys, our staff is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for Columbia, MO residents:
How Our Violent Crime Lawyer Defends Against Charges in Columbia, MO
A strong defense is the difference between conviction and freedom. Our expert violent crime legal team explores all possible defenses, 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.
- 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.
- Insufficient Evidence — If the evidence against you is weak or improperly obtained, we fight to get charges dismissed or reduced.
- Mistaken Identity — Eyewitness misidentification is common. We present alibis, surveillance footage, expert testimony, and more to prove your innocence.
- Unfounded Allegations — If you’ve been accused due to personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings in the Columbia, 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.
Why Choose a Combs Waterkotte Columbia, MO Violent Crime Lawyer?
Our client-focused service, dedication to our clients, and relentless advocacy make us the trusted choice in Columbia, MO as your violent crime lawyer. Here’s what separates Combs Waterkotte from other law firms in the Columbia, MO area:
- 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 Columbia, MO.
- Experience and Expertise: With over four decades of combined experience, we bring unparalleled expertise to every criminal defense case.
- Elite Defense Resources: We have a skilled support team, private investigators, and a network of forensic experts, ready to help defend you in Columbia, MO.
- Trial-Tested and Fearless: Many firms avoid trial, but we are prepared to aggressively fight for you in court whenever necessary in Columbia, MO.
Boone County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Boone County and Missouri.
Consequences of a Violent Crime Conviction in Columbia, MO
If convicted of a violent crime in Columbia, 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 professional license and your career
- Difficulty gaining employment or finding a place to live
- Risk of deportation, visa denial, or citizenship revocation
Protect Your Future By Contacting a Columbia, MO Violent Crime Lawyer Today
Being accused of a violent crime in Columbia, 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 Columbia, MO.
