Violent crime lawyer in St. Joseph, MO. Facing violent crime charges in St. Joseph, MO is a serious, life-changing event. A conviction can result in years behind bars, huge fines, and a criminal record that follows you forever. You need an experienced violent crime lawyer in St. Joseph, MO who will fight tirelessly to defend your rights and build a powerful legal 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. Joseph, MO area and across Missouri.
What to Do If You’ve Been Arrested for a Violent Crime in St. Joseph, MO
Facing violent crime charges in St. Joseph, 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. Joseph, MO case. Follow these steps:
- Stay Silent: Do not answer any questions from 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 St. Joseph, MO, and no one else.
- Seek Legal Representation Immediately: The faster you hire an experienced violent crime lawyer in St. Joseph, MO, the stronger your defense will be. Early legal intervention can make a significant difference in your case.
- Keep Your St. Joseph, 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.
Defining Violent Crimes in St. Joseph, 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. Joseph, 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 these stakes, you can’t afford to roll the dice with your future and freedom. You need a Combs Waterkotte St. Joseph, MO violent crime lawyer protecting your rights, proving your innocence, and fighting for your freedom in St. Joseph, 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.
The Importance of Hiring a Leading St. Joseph, MO Violent Crime Lawyer
Violent crime charges in St. Joseph, MO are aggressively prosecuted, often carrying severe consequences. That’s why having a seasoned criminal defense attorney on your side is essential in St. Joseph, MO. At Combs Waterkotte, we have a history of successfully defending clients against various violent crime charges in and around St. Joseph, MO, including:
- Assault & Battery
We challenge the prosecution’s case to reduce charges and protect your future. - Domestic Violence
False accusations and misunderstandings happen. We work to expose inconsistencies and defend your reputation. - Homicide / Murder Charges
Murder and manslaughter charges carry the harshest penalties. We bring the experience and resources needed to fight for the best possible outcome in St. Joseph, MO. - Weapons Charges
Whether you’re facing unlawful possession or use of a firearm in St. Joseph, MO, we challenge the charges to protect your freedom. - Robbery & Armed Robbery
Dangerous felony charges can mean years or even decades in prison. We work aggressively to dispute evidence, intent, and any violations of your rights. - Kidnapping
These serious charges require a tough defense. We analyze every aspect of the St. Joseph, MO case to challenge weak evidence and unfair allegations.
If you choose Combs Waterkotte as your violent crime lawyer in or around St. Joseph, MO, you aren’t just choosing a top-rated violent crime lawyer in and around St. Joseph, MO – you are safeguarding your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert defense from our esteemed violent crime attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and provides expertise in the following areas for residents in St. Joseph and beyond:
- DWI Administrative Hearing Lawyer
- Drug Crimes Lawyer
- Gun Crime Lawyer
- Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
- Homicide Lawyer
- Assault Lawyer
- Rape Defense Lawyer
How Our Violent Crime Lawyer Defends Against Charges in St. Joseph, MO
Our experienced St. Joseph, MO violent crime legal team uses proven legal strategies such as:
- 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.
- No Criminal Intent — Many violent crime charges require intent. 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.
- Insufficient Evidence — We scrutinize the prosecution’s case for flaws, seeking to suppress unreliable or improperly obtained evidence.
- Misidentification — False identifications happen. We use alibi evidence, surveillance footage, and expert testimony to prove you weren’t involved.
- False Allegations — If you’ve been accused due to personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings in the St. Joseph, 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, 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. Joseph, MO?
Not all law firms near St. Joseph, MO are the same. At Combs Waterkotte, we take a strategic and aggressive approach to defending violent crime charges in St. Joseph, MO, offering:
- Client-Centered Approach: 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. Joseph, MO.
- Extensive Criminal Law Expertise: With decades of success in courts throughout the St. Joseph, MO area, we know how to navigate even the toughest cases.
- Access to Top Resources: Our team includes expert witnesses, private investigators, and forensic specialists to strengthen your case.
- Trial Ready: We’re not afraid to take your case to trial and fight for the best possible outcome in St. Joseph, MO.
Andrew County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Andrew County and Missouri.
Consequences of a Violent Crime Conviction in St. Joseph, MO
If convicted of a violent crime in St. Joseph, 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. Joseph, MO, including:
- A permanent felony record
- 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
Take Action Now — Consult a Violent Crime Lawyer in St. Joseph, MO Right Away
If you’re facing a violent crime charge in St. Joseph, 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. Joseph, MO.