Violent crime lawyer in Lafayette County, MO. If you’ve been accused of or questioned about a violent crime in Lafayette 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 Lafayette 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 Lafayette County, MO and beyond.
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Are Private Attorneys Better Than Public Defenders? Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs talks about the differences in a defendant's experience when working with a public defender vs. a …
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How Does Plea Bargaining Work?
Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs discusses how he negotiates the most favorable plea bargaining deals for his clients. You can read a transcript of the interview below.
Can Criminal Charges Be Dropped?
Can your criminal case get dismissed? How can your defense attorney get your case dismissed? Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs discusses what needs to happen to have your charges …
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Steps to Take If You’ve Been Arrested for a Lafayette County, MO Violent Crime
Being charged with a violent crime in Lafayette County, 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 Lafayette County, MO case is resolved, every action matters. Here’s what you should do:
- Stay Silent: Do not answer police questions without an attorney 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 Lafayette County, MO, and no one else.
- Contact a Combs Waterkotte Lawyer Immediately: The faster you hire an experienced violent crime lawyer in Lafayette County, MO, the stronger your defense will be. Early legal intervention can make a significant difference in your case.
- Keep Your Lafayette County, MO Case Private: 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.
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A felony can have long-term consequences. Act quickly and carefully to protect your future and your livelihood.
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Wondering what happens after your felony arrest? The skilled Combs Waterkotte attorneys have the answers.
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Contact the experienced Combs Waterkotte felony lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP to get started on your defense.
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What is Considered a Violent Crime in Lafayette County, MO?
A violent crime is any crime that involves violence or the threat of violence. Many violent crimes are felony offenses, for which prosecutors will seek the maximum sentence, particularly if the alleged victim was injured or killed. If convicted, you’ll face lifelong consequences—including your career, standing in the Lafayette County, MO community, relationships, and more.
With so much at stake, you need a dedicated Lafayette 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 Lafayette County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
Facing violent crime charges in Lafayette 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 Lafayette County, MO clients against violent crime allegations, such as:
- Assault & Battery
From simple assault to aggravated assault, we fight to protect your rights and minimize penalties. - Domestic Violence
False accusations and misunderstandings happen. We work to expose inconsistencies and defend your reputation. - 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 Lafayette County, MO area. - Robbery & Armed Robbery
Dangerous felony charges require a strategic defense to challenge evidence and intent—precisely what a Combs Waterkotte Lafayette County, MO violent crime lawyer provides throughout the Lafayette County, MO area. - Kidnapping
These serious charges require a tough defense. We analyze every aspect of the Lafayette County, MO case to challenge weak evidence and unfair allegations.
When you partner with Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime legal team in Lafayette County, MO, you aren’t just hiring a top-rated violent crime lawyer in Lafayette County, MO and beyond – you’re safeguarding 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 offers expertise in the following areas for Lafayette County, MO residents:
- Weapon Crime Defense Lawyer
- DWI Lawyer With Payment Plans
- Criminal Defense Lawyer with Payment Plans
How Our Violent Crime Lawyer Defends Against Charges in Lafayette County, MO
Our experienced Lafayette County, MO violent crime legal team uses proven legal strategies such as:
- Self-Defense — If you acted to prevent harm to yourself or others, we present evidence that your actions were legally justified.
- No Criminal 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.
- Weak or Unlawful Evidence — If the evidence against you is weak or improperly obtained, we fight to get charges dismissed or reduced.
- Mistaken Identity — Mistaken identity is a leading cause of wrongful convictions. We gather alibi evidence and expert analysis to prove you were not involved.
- Unfounded Allegations — If you’ve been accused due to personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings in the Lafayette 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 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 Lafayette County, MO?
Not all law firms near Lafayette County, MO are the same. At Combs Waterkotte, we take a strategic and aggressive approach to defending violent crime charges in Lafayette County, MO, offering:
- Client-First Mentality: We keep you informed, provide 24/7 access, and ensure you’re never left in the dark about your Lafayette County, MO case.
- Extensive Criminal Law Expertise: With decades of success in courts throughout the Lafayette County, MO area, we know how to navigate even the toughest cases.
- Access to Top Resources: We work with private investigators, forensic experts, and top legal professionals to strengthen your defense in Lafayette County, MO.
- Fierce Courtroom Advocacy: 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.
Lafayette County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Lafayette County and Missouri.
The Harsh Reality of a Violent Crime Conviction in Lafayette County, MO
If convicted of a violent crime in Lafayette County, MO, you face life-altering penalties that go beyond just prison time. The punishment depends on the charge, circumstances, and your past record. For example, first-degree murder can mean life in prison or the death penalty, while third-degree assault carries up to 4 years behind bars and $10,000 in fines. Even a class D felony weapons charge can result in up to 7 years in prison.
Beyond incarceration and fines, a conviction can have lasting repercussions in Lafayette County, MO, including:
- A felony record that follows you for life
- To face losing your career and any professional license(s)
- Difficulty gaining employment or finding a place to live
- Risk of deportation, visa denial, or citizenship revocation
Take Action Now — Consult a Violent Crime Lawyer in Lafayette County, MO Right Away
If you’re facing a violent crime charge in Lafayette 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.
Take the first step toward your defense—call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free consultation in Lafayette County, MO.
