Violent crime lawyer in Howard County, MO. If you’ve been accused of or questioned about a violent crime in Howard County, MO, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A conviction can lead to severe penalties, including long-term imprisonment, steep fines, and a criminal record that impacts your entire life. You need a dedicated violent crime lawyer in Howard County, MO who knows how to challenge the prosecution and develop a strong defense strategy.
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 Howard County, MO and beyond.
What to Do If You’ve Been Arrested for a Violent Crime in Howard County, MO
Facing violent crime charges in Howard 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 Howard County, MO case. Follow these steps:
- Invoke Your Right to Silence: Do not speak to 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 Howard County, MO, and no one else.
- Seek Legal Representation Immediately: The faster you hire an experienced violent crime lawyer in Howard County, MO, the stronger your defense will be. Early legal intervention can make a significant difference in your case.
- Do Not Discuss Your Howard County, MO Case: Discussing your case with family, friends, or on social media can hurt your defense.
- Preserve Crucial Evidence: If you have evidence supporting your innocence, such as videos, messages, or witness contacts, share them with your attorney immediately.
What is Considered a Violent Crime in Howard County, 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 Howard County, 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 Howard County, 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 Howard County, MO Matters
Violent crime charges in Howard County, MO are aggressively prosecuted, often carrying severe consequences. That’s why having a seasoned criminal defense attorney on your side is essential in Howard County, MO. At Combs Waterkotte, we have a history of successfully defending clients against various violent crime charges in and around Howard County, MO, including:
- Assault & Battery
From simple assault to aggravated assault, we fight to protect your rights and minimize penalties. - 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
When firearms or other weapons are involved, penalties escalate quickly. We fight to defend against charges of unlawful possession, use, and related offenses in Howard County, MO. - Robbery & Armed Robbery
Dangerous felony charges require a strategic defense to challenge evidence and intent—precisely what a Combs Waterkotte Howard County, MO violent crime lawyer provides throughout the Howard County, MO area. - Kidnapping
Complex cases need skilled criminal defense attorneys who understand how to challenge the prosecution’s case at every level.
When you choose Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime attorney in the Howard County, MO area, you’re not just choosing a top-rated violent crime lawyer in Howard County, MO and throughout Missouri – you are safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with top defense from our knowledgeable violent crime lawyers, our staff is available 24/7 and provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Howard County and beyond:
Possible Defenses for Your Violent Crime Lawyer in Howard County, MO
The right defense can mean the difference between a conviction and freedom in Howard County, MO. Our experienced violent crime legal team evaluates every angle to build a strong case, including:
- Self-Defense — If you acted to protect yourself or others from imminent harm, we work to prove your actions were justified.
- No Criminal Intent — Without intent, many violent crime charges don’t stand. If your actions were accidental or misinterpreted, we challenge the prosecution’s claims.
- Insufficient Evidence — We scrutinize the prosecution’s case for flaws, seeking to suppress unreliable or improperly obtained evidence.
- Misidentification — False identifications happen. We use alibi evidence, surveillance footage, and expert testimony to prove you weren’t involved.
- Unfounded Allegations — In some cases, accusations stem from personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings. We stop at nothing in Howard County, 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, 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 Howard County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer?
Not all law firms near Howard County, MO are the same. At Combs Waterkotte, we take a strategic and aggressive approach to defending violent crime charges in Howard County, MO, offering:
- Client-First Mentality: We prioritize your needs, offering 24/7 availability, clear communication, and a strategy tailored to your case in Howard County, MO.
- Extensive Criminal Law Expertise: With decades of success in courts throughout the Howard County, MO area, we know how to navigate even the toughest cases.
- Resources: Our team includes expert witnesses, private investigators, and forensic specialists to strengthen your case.
- 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.
Howard County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Howard County and Missouri.
What Are the Penalties for a Violent Crime Conviction in Howard County, MO?
A violent crime conviction in Howard 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.
In addition to your prison sentence and fines, you’ll have:
- A felony record that follows you for life
- To face losing your career and any professional license(s)
- 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 Howard County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
A violent crime charge in Howard 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.
Take the first step toward your defense—call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free consultation in Howard County, MO.