Violent crime lawyer in Joplin, MO. Being accused of a violent crime in or around Joplin, 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 Joplin, MO who knows how to fight aggressively for your rights and build a strategic defense.
Don’t face these charges alone in Joplin, 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 Joplin, MO and across Missouri, we have the expertise to help you fight for your future.
What to Do in Joplin, MO If You’ve Been Arrested for a Violent Crime
Being charged with a violent crime in Joplin, MO can be overwhelming, but remember—you have rights. The experienced violent crime legal team at Combs Waterkotte has extensive experience in defending these charges, and we’re here to help. Avoid making mistakes that could impact your case or harm your defense. Until your Joplin, MO case is resolved, every action matters. Here’s what you should do:
- Remain Silent: Do not answer police questions without a 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 Joplin, MO immediately.
- Hire a Combs Waterkotte Violent Crime Lawyer Right Away: The sooner you hire an experienced Joplin, MO violent crime attorney, the better your chances of building a strong defense and getting the best possible outcome.
- Keep Your Joplin, 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 evidence supporting your innocence, such as videos, messages, or witness contacts, share them with your attorney immediately.
Defining Violent Crimes in Joplin, 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 Joplin, 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 Joplin, 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 Joplin, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
Violent crime charges in Joplin, MO are aggressively prosecuted, often carrying severe consequences. That’s why having a seasoned criminal defense attorney on your side is essential in Joplin, MO. At Combs Waterkotte, we have a history of successfully defending clients against various violent crime charges in and around Joplin, MO, including:
- Assault & Battery
We challenge the prosecution’s case to reduce charges and protect your future. - Domestic Violence
False accusations can turn your life upside down. We work to challenge inconsistencies and defend your reputation in Joplin, MO. - 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
Whether you’re facing unlawful possession or use of a firearm in Joplin, MO, we challenge the charges to protect your freedom. - Robbery & Armed Robbery
Dangerous felony charges like robbery or armed robbery, require a strategic defense to challenge evidence and intent—precisely what a Combs Waterkotte Joplin, MO violent crime lawyer provides throughout the Joplin, MO area. - Kidnapping
These serious charges require a tough defense. We analyze every aspect of the Joplin, MO case to challenge weak evidence and unfair allegations.
If you partner with Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime lawyer in the Joplin, MO area, you aren’t just hiring a leading violent crime lawyer in and around Joplin, MO – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert defense from our experienced violent crime lawyers, our legal team is available 24/7 and provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Joplin and beyond:
- Weapons Crime Attorney
- DWI Administrative Hearing Lawyer
- Drug Crimes Lawyer
- Gun Crime Lawyer
- Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
Possible Defenses for Your Violent Crime Lawyer in Joplin, MO
The right defense can mean the difference between a conviction and freedom in Joplin, MO. Our experienced violent crime legal team evaluates every angle to build a strong case, including:
- Self-Defense — If you acted to prevent harm to yourself or others, we present evidence that your actions were legally justified.
- No Intent to Harm — Without intent, many violent crime charges don’t stand. We work to show your actions were accidental or misinterpreted.
- Lack of Evidence — If the case against you is weak or relies on illegally obtained evidence, we push for dismissal or reduced charges.
- Mistaken Identity — Eyewitness misidentification is common. We present alibis, surveillance footage, expert testimony, and more to prove your innocence.
- False Allegations — If you’ve been accused due to personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings in the Joplin, 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.
What Makes Combs Waterkotte the Best Choice for Your Violent Crime Lawyer in Joplin, MO?
Our client-focused service, dedication to our clients, and relentless advocacy make us the trusted choice in Joplin, MO as your violent crime lawyer. Here’s what separates Combs Waterkotte from other law firms in the Joplin, MO area:
- Client-Centered Approach: We prioritize your needs, offering 24/7 availability, clear communication, and a strategy tailored to your case in Joplin, MO.
- Decades of Criminal Defense Experience: With 40+ years of combined legal experience, we know how to build winning defense strategies in Joplin, MO.
- Access to Top Resources: We have a skilled support team, private investigators, and a network of forensic experts, ready to help defend you in Joplin, MO.
- Trial-Tested and Fearless: Many firms avoid trial, but we are prepared to aggressively fight for you in court whenever necessary in Joplin, MO.
Jasper County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Jasper County and Missouri.
Consequences of a Violent Crime Conviction in Joplin, MO
A violent crime conviction in Joplin, 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 Joplin, MO, including:
- A felony record that follows you for life
- To face losing your career and any professional license(s)
- Difficulty securing jobs and housing
- Risk of deportation, visa denial, or citizenship revocation
Take Action Now — Consult a Violent Crime Lawyer in Joplin, MO Right Away
A violent crime charge in Joplin, 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.
Don’t wait—call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a free consultation in Joplin, MO.