Violent crime lawyer in Liberty, MO. Being accused of a violent crime in or around Liberty, 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 Liberty, 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 Liberty, MO and beyond.
Legal Videos

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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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What Is the Process For Getting Bail in Missouri? If you've been arrested, the first thing you want to do is get out of jail and get back home. Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs …

Everything You Need to Know About Juvenile Criminal Defense Cases in Missouri
Everything You Need to Know About Juvenile Criminal Defense Cases in Missouri. Attorneys Christopher Combs and Matthew Brown from Combs Waterkotte answer the most commonly asked questions about …

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 …

Public Defender Caseloads Are High. Can I Trust One With My Case?
St. Louis defense attorney Chris Combs explains how a private defense lawyer can offer the resources and attention to detail that many public defenders don't have time for. You can read a …
What to Do in Liberty, MO If You’ve Been Arrested for a Violent Crime
Facing violent crime charges in Liberty, 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 Liberty, MO case. Follow these steps:
- Invoke Your Right to Silence: Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney 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 Liberty, MO, and no one else.
- Hire a Combs Waterkotte Violent Crime Lawyer Right Away: The sooner you hire an experienced Liberty, MO violent crime attorney, the better your chances of building a strong defense and getting the best possible outcome.
- Do Not Discuss Your Liberty, MO Case: 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 any proof that supports your case—such as surveillance footage, test messages, or witness information—provide it to your attorney as soon as possible.

Defining Violent Crimes in Liberty, 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 Liberty, MO community, relationships, and more.
Don’t gamble with your future. A skilled violent crime lawyer in Liberty, 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 Liberty, MO.
Why Choosing the Right Violent Crime Lawyer in Liberty, MO Matters
Violent crime charges in Liberty, MO are aggressively prosecuted, often carrying severe consequences. That’s why having a seasoned criminal defense attorney on your side is essential in Liberty, MO. At Combs Waterkotte, we have a history of successfully defending clients against various violent crime charges in and around Liberty, 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 Liberty, 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
If a firearm or other weapon is involved, penalties can be even more severe. We help fight unlawful possession and usage charges in the Liberty, MO area. - Robbery & Armed Robbery
Dangerous felony charges like robbery or armed robbery, can mean years or even decades in prison. We work aggressively to dispute evidence, intent, and any violations of your rights. - Kidnapping
These cases demand skilled legal defense in Liberty, MO. We dissect the prosecution’s case, exposing weaknesses that could lead to reduced or dismissed charges.

If you choose Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime attorney in Liberty, MO, you aren’t just hiring a leading violent crime lawyer in Liberty, MO and beyond – you are securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with leading defense from our knowledgeable violent crime attorneys, our staff is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for Liberty, MO residents:
Defense Strategies for Violent Crime Charges in Liberty, MO
A strong defense is the difference between conviction and freedom. Our expert violent crime legal team explores all possible defenses, including:
- Self-Defense — If you acted to prevent harm to yourself or others, we present evidence that your actions were legally justified.
- No Criminal Intent — Many violent crime charges require intent. If your actions were accidental or misinterpreted, we challenge the prosecution’s claims.
- Weak or Unlawful Evidence — If the evidence against you is weak or improperly obtained, we fight to get charges dismissed or reduced.
- Misidentification — Mistaken identity is a leading cause of wrongful convictions. We gather alibi evidence and expert analysis to prove you were not involved.
- Unfounded Allegations — In some cases, accusations stem from personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings. We stop at nothing in Liberty, MO to expose inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case.
Free book
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.
Why Trust Combs Waterkotte for Your Violent Crime Defense in Liberty, MO?
Our client-focused service, dedication to our clients, and relentless advocacy make us the trusted choice in Liberty, MO as your violent crime lawyer. Here’s what separates Combs Waterkotte from other law firms in the Liberty, MO area:
- Client-First Mentality: We keep you informed, provide 24/7 access, and ensure you’re never left in the dark about your Liberty, MO case.
- Experience and Expertise: With over four decades of combined experience, we bring unparalleled expertise to every criminal defense case.
- Elite Defense Resources: We have a skilled support team, private investigators, and a network of forensic experts, ready to help defend you in Liberty, MO.
- Trial Ready: 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.
Clay County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Clay County and Missouri.
The Harsh Reality of a Violent Crime Conviction in Liberty, MO
Violent crimes carry severe consequences in Liberty, MO, including substantial prison time and hefty fines. Every case is unique. The penalties largely depend on the specific charge, circumstances of the offense, and your prior criminal history. For example, a first-degree murder conviction carries a sentence of life in prison without parole or the death penalty, while a conviction for third-degree assault is up to 4 years in prison and fines up to $10,000, and the unlawful use of a weapon is a class D felony, carrying 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 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 Liberty, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
If you’re facing a violent crime charge in Liberty, 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 Liberty, MO.

