Violent crime lawyer in Howard County, MO. Being accused of a violent crime in or around Howard 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 Howard 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 Howard County, MO and beyond.
Steps to Take If You’ve Been Arrested for a Howard County, MO Violent Crime
When you’re charged with a violent crime in Howard County, MO, it is important to remember you have rights. Also, the Combs Waterkotte violent crime attorneys have extensive experience in defending these charges. Don’t add to the already daunting charges by doing something to harm your case. After all, the problems created by your Howard County, MO arrest won’t be resolved until a successful outcome is reached. Here’s what to do:
- Invoke Your Right to Silence: Do not answer police questions 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 Howard County, MO immediately.
- Seek Legal Representation Immediately: Time is critical. Hiring a skilled Howard County, MO violent crime lawyer early can help protect your rights and improve your chances of the best possible outcome.
- Avoid Talking to Anyone: 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: 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.
Understanding Violent Crimes in Howard 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 Howard 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 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 You Need a Top Howard County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
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
We challenge the prosecution’s case to reduce charges and protect your future. - 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 Howard County, MO. - Weapons Charges
If a firearm or other weapon is involved, penalties can be even more severe. We help fight unlawful possession and usage charges in the Howard County, MO area. - 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
These serious charges require a tough defense. We analyze every aspect of the Howard County, MO case to challenge weak evidence and unfair allegations.
When you choose Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime lawyer in the Howard County, MO area, you’re not just selecting the ideal violent crime lawyer in and around Howard County, MO – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert defense from our knowledgeable violent crime lawyers, our staff is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for Howard County, MO residents:
- Weapons Crime Attorney
- DWI Administrative Hearing Lawyer
- Drug Crimes Lawyer
- Gun Crime Lawyer
- Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
How Our Violent Crime Lawyer Defends Against Charges in Howard County, MO
Our experienced Howard County, 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 — 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.
- Weak or Unlawful Evidence — We scrutinize the prosecution’s case for flaws, seeking to suppress unreliable or improperly obtained evidence.
- Mistaken Identity — False identifications happen. We use alibi evidence, surveillance footage, and expert testimony to prove you weren’t involved.
- False Allegations — If you’ve been accused due to personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings in the Howard County, 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, 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 Howard County, MO?
When facing serious charges, choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference. Combs Waterkotte stands out as the go-to violent crime lawyer in Howard County, MO because:
- 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 Howard County, MO.
- Experience and Expertise: With over four decades of combined experience, we bring unparalleled expertise to every criminal defense case.
- Resources: We have a skilled support team, private investigators, and a network of forensic experts, ready to help defend you in Howard County, MO.
- Fierce Courtroom Advocacy: We’re not afraid to take your case to trial and fight for the best possible outcome in Howard County, MO.
Howard County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Howard County and Missouri.
The Harsh Reality of 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.
A conviction can also lead to significant long-term consequences in Howard County, MO, including:
- A felony record that follows you for life
- To face losing your professional license and your career
- Difficulty securing jobs and housing
- Risk of deportation, visa denial, or citizenship revocation
Protect Your Future By Contacting a Howard County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer Today
If you’re facing a violent crime charge in Howard County, MO, don’t leave your future to chance. An experienced and aggressive violent crime lawyer can evaluate your case, develop a strong defense, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Call Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free case review in Howard County, MO.