Violent crime lawyer in Richmond, MO. Being accused of a violent crime in or around Richmond, 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 Richmond, MO who knows how to fight aggressively for your rights and build a strategic defense.
Don’t face these charges alone in Richmond, 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 Richmond, MO and across Missouri, we have the expertise to help you fight for your future.
Legal Videos

Are Private Attorneys Better Than Public Defenders?
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 …

What Is the Process For Getting Bail in Missouri?
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 If You’ve Been Arrested for a Violent Crime in Richmond, MO
Facing violent crime charges in Richmond, 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 Richmond, MO case. Follow these steps:
- Invoke Your Right to Silence: Do not answer police questions without a violent crime 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 Richmond, MO immediately.
- Hire a Combs Waterkotte Violent Crime Lawyer Right Away: Time is critical. Hiring a skilled Richmond, MO violent crime lawyer early can help protect your rights and improve your chances of the best possible outcome.
- Do Not Discuss Your Richmond, MO Case: Discussing your case with family, friends, or on social media can hurt your defense.
- Collect and Share 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 Richmond, 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 Richmond, MO community, relationships, and more.
With these stakes, you can’t afford to roll the dice with your future and freedom. You need a Combs Waterkotte Richmond, MO violent crime lawyer protecting your rights, proving your innocence, and fighting for your freedom in Richmond, MO. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to discuss the specifics of your case and get expert legal advice and guidance on next steps.
Why Choosing the Right Violent Crime Lawyer in Richmond, MO Matters
Prosecutors take violent crime charges seriously in Richmond, MO, and they don’t hesitate in pursuing the harshest penalties. That’s exactly why hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney is critical. At Combs Waterkotte, we have a proven track record of success defending clients in Richmond, MO against a wide range of violent crime charges, including:
- Assault & Battery
Whether you’re facing charges for simple assault or 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
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
When firearms or other weapons are involved, penalties escalate quickly. We fight to defend against charges of unlawful possession, use, and related offenses in Richmond, MO. - Robbery & Armed Robbery
Dangerous felony charges require a strategic defense to challenge evidence and intent—precisely what a Combs Waterkotte Richmond, MO violent crime lawyer provides throughout the Richmond, MO area. - Kidnapping
These cases demand skilled legal defense in Richmond, MO. We dissect the prosecution’s case, exposing weaknesses that could lead to reduced or dismissed charges.

When you hire Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime attorney in Richmond, MO, you aren’t just selecting the ideal violent crime lawyer in and around Richmond, MO – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with leading defense from our knowledgeable violent crime attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Richmond and beyond:
Possible Defenses for Your Violent Crime Lawyer in Richmond, 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 protect yourself or others from imminent harm, we work to prove your actions were justified.
- No Criminal Intent — Without intent, many violent crime charges don’t stand. If your actions were accidental or misinterpreted, we challenge the prosecution’s claims.
- Insufficient Evidence — If the case against you is weak or relies on illegally obtained evidence, we push for dismissal or reduced charges.
- Mistaken Identity — False identifications happen. We use alibi evidence, surveillance footage, and expert testimony to prove you weren’t involved.
- Unfounded Allegations — If you’ve been accused due to personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings in the Richmond, MO area, we expose contradictions 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 Choose a Combs Waterkotte Richmond, MO Violent Crime Lawyer?
Not all law firms near Richmond, MO are the same. At Combs Waterkotte, we take a strategic and aggressive approach to defending violent crime charges in Richmond, MO, offering:
- Client-First Mentality: We keep you informed, provide 24/7 access, and ensure you’re never left in the dark about your Richmond, MO case.
- 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 Richmond, MO.
- Trial Ready: Many firms avoid trial, but we are prepared to aggressively fight for you in court whenever necessary in Richmond, MO.
Ray County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Ray County and Missouri.
Consequences of a Violent Crime Conviction in Richmond, MO
Violent crimes carry severe consequences in Richmond, 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
- Risk of deportation, visa denial, or citizenship revocation

Take Action Now — Consult a Violent Crime Lawyer in Richmond, MO Right Away
Being accused of a violent crime in Richmond, 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.
Call Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free case review in Richmond, MO.

