Violent crime lawyer in St. Francois County, MO. If you’ve been accused of or questioned about a violent crime in St. Francois 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 St. Francois 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 St. Francois County, MO and beyond.
What to Do If You’ve Been Arrested for a Violent Crime in St. Francois County, MO
When you’re charged with a violent crime in St. Francois County, MO, it is important to remember you have rights. Also, the Combs Waterkotte violent crime attorneys have extensive experience in defending these charges. Don’t add to the already daunting charges by doing something to harm your case. After all, the problems created by your St. Francois County, MO arrest won’t be resolved until a successful outcome is reached. Here’s what to do:
- Remain Silent: Do not answer any questions from law enforcement 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 St. Francois County, MO, and no one else.
- Hire a Combs Waterkotte Violent Crime Lawyer Right Away: The sooner you hire an experienced St. Francois County, MO violent crime attorney, the better your chances of building a strong defense and getting the best possible outcome.
- Avoid Talking to Anyone: 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.
Defining Violent Crimes 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.
Don’t gamble with your future. A skilled violent crime lawyer in St. Francois County, 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 St. Francois County, MO.
The Importance of Hiring a Leading St. Francois County, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
Prosecutors take violent crime charges seriously in St. Francois County, 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 St. Francois County, 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
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 St. Francois County, MO area. - 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 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.
If you partner with Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime lawyer in the St. Francois County, MO area, you’re not just selecting a leading violent crime lawyer in and around St. Francois County, MO – you’re safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with leading defense from our knowledgeable violent crime attorneys, our staff is available 24/7 and provides expertise in the following areas for residents in St. Francois County and beyond:
- Weapons Crime Attorney
- DWI Administrative Hearing Lawyer
- Drug Crimes Lawyer
- Gun Crime Lawyer
- Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
How Our Violent Crime Lawyer Defends Against Charges 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 — You have the right to protect yourself. This defense justifies the use of reasonable force to protect yourself from imminent harm. We work to prove you acted lawfully.
- Lack of 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 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 — Some charges in St. Francois County, MO arise from false claims, personal grudges, or exaggerations. We challenge inconsistencies to protect your reputation and future.

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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 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: We keep you informed, provide 24/7 access, and ensure you’re never left in the dark about your St. Francois County, MO case.
- Experience and Expertise: With over four decades of combined experience, we bring unparalleled expertise to every criminal defense case.
- Access to Top Resources: We work with private investigators, forensic experts, and top legal professionals to strengthen your defense in St. Francois County, MO.
- Trial-Tested and Fearless: 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.
Beyond incarceration and fines, a conviction can have lasting repercussions in St. Francois County, MO, including:
- A permanent felony record
- To face losing your professional license and your career
- Difficulty securing jobs and housing
- Immigration visa or green card revocation, citizenship application denial, or deportation
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.
Don’t wait—call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a free consultation in St. Francois County, MO.