Violent crime lawyer in Johnson County, MO. Being accused of a violent crime in or around Johnson 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 Johnson County, MO who knows how to fight aggressively for your rights and build a strategic defense.
Don’t face these charges alone in Johnson County, MO—call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation. With over 40 years of experience and more than 10,000 cases successfully handled in Johnson County, MO and across Missouri, we have the expertise to help you fight for your future.
Steps to Take If You’ve Been Arrested for a Johnson County, MO Violent Crime
When you’re charged with a violent crime in Johnson 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 Johnson County, MO arrest won’t be resolved until a successful outcome is reached. Here’s what to do:
- Stay Silent: Do not speak to law enforcement without a violent crime lawyer present. You can’t face anything harsher for exercising your right to remain silent. But you can definitely damage your case by speaking to someone else. Talk to your violent crime lawyer in Johnson County, MO, and no one else.
- Contact a Combs Waterkotte Lawyer Immediately: The faster you hire an experienced violent crime lawyer in Johnson County, MO, the stronger your defense will be. Early legal intervention can make a significant difference in your case.
- Avoid Talking to Anyone: Discussing your case with family, friends, or on social media can hurt your defense.
- 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 Johnson 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 Johnson 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.
Don’t gamble with your future. A skilled violent crime lawyer in Johnson County, MO can help protect your rights and build a strong defense. Call Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get the legal support you need in Johnson County, MO.
The Importance of Hiring a Leading Johnson County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
Facing violent crime charges in Johnson County, 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 Johnson County, MO clients against violent crime allegations, such as:
- Assault & Battery
We challenge the prosecution’s case to reduce charges and protect your future. - Domestic Violence
Misunderstandings and false claims can destroy lives. We uncover the truth and fight for your innocence. - 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
If a firearm or other weapon is involved, penalties can be even more severe. We help fight unlawful possession and usage charges in the Johnson County, MO area. - Robbery & Armed Robbery
Dangerous felony charges 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.
If you partner with Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime legal team in Johnson County, MO, you aren’t just choosing a leading violent crime lawyer in Johnson County, MO and beyond – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to leading defense from our knowledgeable violent crime attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and provides expertise in the following areas for Johnson County, MO residents:
Possible Defenses for Your Violent Crime Lawyer in Johnson County, MO
Our experienced Johnson 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.
- Lack of Intent — 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 — We scrutinize the prosecution’s case for flaws, seeking to suppress unreliable or improperly obtained evidence.
- Misidentification — Eyewitness misidentification is common. We present alibis, surveillance footage, expert testimony, and more to prove your innocence.
- False Allegations — In some cases, accusations stem from personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings. We stop at nothing in Johnson 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 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 Johnson County, MO?
Not all law firms near Johnson County, MO are the same. At Combs Waterkotte, we take a strategic and aggressive approach to defending violent crime charges in Johnson County, MO, offering:
- Client-First Mentality: 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 Johnson County, MO.
- Decades of Criminal Defense Experience: With 40+ years of combined legal experience, we know how to build winning defense strategies in Johnson County, MO.
- Resources: We have a skilled support team, private investigators, and a network of forensic experts, ready to help defend you in Johnson County, MO.
- Trial Ready: We’re not afraid to take your case to trial and fight for the best possible outcome in Johnson County, MO.
Johnson County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Johnson County and Missouri.
What Are the Penalties for a Violent Crime Conviction in Johnson County, MO?
A violent crime conviction in Johnson 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 permanent felony record
- To face losing your professional license and your career
- Difficulty gaining employment or finding a place to live
- Immigration visa or green card revocation, citizenship application denial, or deportation
Your Future is on the Line — Get Help Today From a Combs Waterkotte Johnson County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
Being accused of a violent crime in Johnson County, 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.
Take the first step toward your defense—call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free consultation in Johnson County, MO.