Violent crime lawyer in Franklin County, MO. Being accused of a violent crime in or around Franklin County, 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 Franklin County, 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 Franklin County, MO and beyond.
Legal Videos

Can I Seal or Expunge My Criminal Record in Illinois?
Can I Seal or Expunge My Criminal Record in Illinois? Dealing with a criminal record in the state of Illinois? Combs Waterkotte attorney Joshua Boardman discusses the possibility of expunging your …

Can the Police Legally Search Me or My Property in Illinois?
Can the Police Legally Search Me or My Property in Illinois? Facing criminal charges in the state of Illinois? Combs Waterkotte attorney Joshua Boardman discusses probable cause and when police can …

Do I Need a Lawyer if I’m Innocent in Illinois?
Do I Need a Lawyer if I'm Innocent in Illinois? Facing criminal charges in the state of Illinois? Combs Waterkotte attorney Andrew Russek talks about it being more important to have a lawyer if …

What Penalties Could I Face Under Illinois Law?
What Penalties Could I Face Under Illinois Law? Facing criminal charges in the state of Illinois? Combs Waterkotte attorney Joshua Boardman talks about the possible penalties under Illinois …

What Are My Rights if I’m Arrested in Illinois?
What Are My Rights if I'm Arrested in Illinois? Facing criminal charges in the state of Illinois? Combs Waterkotte attorney Joshua Boardman discusses your rights following an arrest in …

How Can Criminal Charges in Illinois Be Reduced or Dismissed?
How Can Criminal Charges in Illinois Be Reduced or Dismissed? Charged with a crime in the state of Illinois? Attorney Andrew Russek from Combs Waterkotte discusses the possibility of charges being …
Steps to Take If You’ve Been Arrested for a Franklin County, MO Violent Crime
Facing violent crime charges in Franklin County, 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 Franklin County, MO case. Follow these steps:
- Stay Silent: Do not answer police questions without a violent crime 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 Franklin County, MO immediately.
- Hire a Combs Waterkotte Violent Crime Lawyer Right Away: The sooner you hire an experienced Franklin County, MO violent crime attorney, the better your chances of building a strong defense and getting the best possible outcome.
- Keep Your Franklin County, 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.

What is Considered a Violent Crime in Franklin County, 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 Franklin County, 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 Franklin County, MO violent crime lawyer protecting your rights, proving your innocence, and fighting for your freedom in Franklin County, 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 Franklin County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
Violent crime charges in Franklin County, MO are aggressively prosecuted, often carrying severe consequences. That’s why having a seasoned criminal defense attorney on your side is essential in Franklin County, MO. At Combs Waterkotte, we have a history of successfully defending clients against various violent crime charges in and around Franklin County, MO, 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 Franklin County, MO. - Homicide / Murder Charges
Facing charges for first-degree murder, second-degree murder, or manslaughter? These cases require a meticulous defense strategy. Our experienced attorneys know how to challenge the prosecution’s case and protect your rights. - Weapons Charges
Whether you’re facing unlawful possession or use of a firearm in Franklin County, 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 legal team in the Franklin County, MO area, you’re not just choosing the ideal violent crime lawyer in and around Franklin County, MO – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with leading defense from our knowledgeable violent crime attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for Franklin County, MO residents:
Possible Defenses for Your Violent Crime Lawyer in Franklin County, MO
The right defense can mean the difference between a conviction and freedom in Franklin County, 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 — 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 evidence against you is weak or improperly obtained, we fight to get charges dismissed or reduced.
- Misidentification — Mistaken identity is a leading cause of wrongful convictions. We gather alibi evidence and expert analysis to prove you were not involved.
- False Allegations — In some cases, accusations stem from personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings. We stop at nothing in Franklin County, MO to expose inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case.
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 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 Trust Combs Waterkotte for Your Violent Crime Defense in Franklin County, MO?
Not all law firms near Franklin County, MO are the same. At Combs Waterkotte, we take a strategic and aggressive approach to defending violent crime charges in Franklin County, MO, offering:
- Unwavering Client Support: We keep you informed, provide 24/7 access, and ensure you’re never left in the dark about your Franklin County, MO case.
- Experience and Expertise: With over four decades of combined experience, we bring unparalleled expertise to every criminal defense case.
- Resources: We work with private investigators, forensic experts, and top legal professionals to strengthen your defense in Franklin County, MO.
- Trial-Tested and Fearless: 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.
Franklin County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Franklin County and Missouri.
The Harsh Reality of a Violent Crime Conviction in Franklin County, MO
A violent crime conviction in Franklin County, MO can change your life forever. Penalties vary based on the severity of the charge, the details of the offense, and your criminal history. For instance, a first-degree murder conviction results in life without parole of the death penalty, while third-degree assault could lead up to 4 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. Even an unlawful weapons charge as a class D felony carries a sentence of up to 7 years in prison.
A conviction can also lead to significant long-term consequences in Franklin County, MO, including:
- 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

Your Future is on the Line — Get Help Today From a Combs Waterkotte Franklin County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
A violent crime charge in Franklin County, MO can put your future at risk. You need a skilled and determined violent crime lawyer who will access your case, build a strategic defense, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Call Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free case review in Franklin County, MO.

