Violent crime lawyer in St. Francois County, MO. Being accused of a violent crime in or around St. Francois 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 St. Francois County, 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 reach out online to schedule a free, confidential consultation with an expert criminal defense attorney. Our violent crime legal team has over 40 years of experience and has successfully handled more than 10,000 cases just like yours in the St. Francois County, MO area and across Missouri.
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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 …
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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 St. Francois County, MO
Facing violent crime charges in St. Francois County, 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 St. Francois County, MO case. Follow these steps:
- Stay Silent: Do not answer police questions 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 St. Francois County, MO, and no one else.
- Contact a Combs Waterkotte Lawyer Immediately: Time is critical. Hiring a skilled St. Francois County, MO violent crime lawyer early can help protect your rights and improve your chances of the best possible outcome.
- Do Not Discuss Your St. Francois County, MO Case: Avoid discussing your charges with anyone—including friends, family, or on social media. Any statements you make could be used against you.
- Gather Any 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.
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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 St. Francois 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 St. Francois 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.
With so much at stake, you need a dedicated St. Francois 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 Choosing the Right Violent Crime Lawyer in St. Francois County, MO Matters
Violent crime charges in St. Francois County, MO are aggressively prosecuted, often carrying severe consequences. That’s why having a seasoned criminal defense attorney on your side is essential in St. Francois County, MO. At Combs Waterkotte, we have a history of successfully defending clients against various violent crime charges in and around St. Francois County, 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 St. Francois County, MO. - 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
When firearms or other weapons are involved, penalties escalate quickly. We fight to defend against charges of unlawful possession, use, and related offenses in St. Francois County, MO. - Robbery & Armed Robbery
Dangerous felony charges require a strategic defense to challenge evidence and intent—precisely what a Combs Waterkotte St. Francois County, MO violent crime lawyer provides throughout the St. Francois County, MO area. - Kidnapping
These serious charges require a tough defense. We analyze every aspect of the St. Francois County, MO case to challenge weak evidence and unfair allegations.
When you choose Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime attorney in or around St. Francois County, MO, you’re not just selecting the ideal violent crime lawyer in St. Francois County, MO and beyond – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with top defense from our esteemed violent crime attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for residents in St. Francois County and beyond:
Possible Defenses for Your Violent Crime Lawyer in St. Francois County, 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.
- Lack of 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.
- Misidentification — Mistaken identity is a leading cause of wrongful convictions. We gather alibi evidence and expert analysis to prove you were not involved.
- False Allegations — If you’ve been accused due to personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings in the St. Francois 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.
Why Trust Combs Waterkotte for Your Violent Crime Defense in St. Francois County, MO?
Not all law firms near St. Francois County, MO are the same. At Combs Waterkotte, we take a strategic and aggressive approach to defending violent crime charges in St. Francois 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 St. Francois County, MO.
- Experience and Expertise: With over four decades of combined experience, we bring unparalleled expertise to every criminal defense case.
- Elite Defense Resources: We work with private investigators, forensic experts, and top legal professionals to strengthen your defense in St. Francois 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.
St. Francois County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in St. Francois County and Missouri.
The Harsh Reality of a Violent Crime Conviction in St. Francois County, MO
If convicted of a violent crime in St. Francois 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.
A conviction can also lead to significant long-term consequences in St. Francois County, MO, including:
- A permanent felony record
- 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 St. Francois County, MO Right Away
If you’re facing a violent crime charge in St. Francois 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 St. Francois County, MO.
